The Best Places to Live in Finland as an Expat

Did you know that Finland has consistently ranked as the happiest country in the world since 2018 according to the UN World Happiness Report? This Nordic nation offers an exceptional quality of life, combining pristine nature with technological innovation and a strong social welfare system.

Why Choose Finland?

Finland stands out for its exceptional work-life balance, high standard of living, and commitment to social equality. The country's education system is world-renowned, healthcare is universal, and public services are highly efficient. The InfoFinland portal provides comprehensive information for foreigners considering relocation.

Despite its northern location, Finland offers a high quality of life year-round, with excellent infrastructure designed for all seasons. The country's commitment to innovation and sustainability, combined with its robust social security system, makes it particularly attractive for professionals and families.

Top Locations for Expats

1. Helsinki

As Finland's capital and largest city, Helsinki serves as the nation's cultural, economic, and political centre. This design-focused city offers a unique blend of Nordic efficiency and creative energy. The City of Helsinki provides extensive information about city services and opportunities.

The metropolitan area includes neighbouring cities Espoo and Vantaa, forming a diverse urban region. Popular expat areas include the trendy Kallio district, family-friendly Lauttasaari, and the international atmosphere of Tapiola in Espoo.

Housing costs are the highest in Finland, with city centre apartments ranging from €1,000-1,500 monthly for quality one-bedroom units. Outer districts and neighbouring cities offer more affordable options, typically €800-1,200.

Key Points:

• Strongest job market in Finland
• Excellent public transportation system
• Multiple international schools
• High cost of living
• Strong start-up and tech scene
• Vibrant cultural life

2. Tampere

Often called Finland's second capital, Tampere has emerged as a major tech hub and cultural centre. Located between two lakes, the city offers an attractive blend of urban amenities and natural beauty. The Business Tampere portal showcases the city's growing opportunities in technology and innovation.

Housing costs are significantly lower than Helsinki, with quality one-bedroom apartments ranging from €600-900 in central areas. The city's industrial heritage has been transformed into creative spaces and cultural venues, making it particularly attractive for young professionals and creatives.

The presence of multiple universities creates a dynamic atmosphere, while the city's size makes it more manageable than Helsinki while maintaining excellent amenities.

Key Points:

• Growing tech and gaming industry
• Lower living costs than Helsinki
• Strong academic environment
• Excellent quality of life
• Good public transport
• Active international community

3. Turku

Finland's oldest city and former capital, Turku combines historical charm with modern innovation. Located on the southwest coast, it offers milder winters than much of Finland and easy access to the stunning archipelago. The City of Turku provides extensive information about living in this historic maritime city.

Home to multiple universities and a thriving biotech sector, Turku has attracted significant international investment. Housing costs are moderate, with city centre apartments ranging from €700-1,000 monthly. The medieval quarter and riverside areas are particularly popular with expats.

The city's location also provides easy access to Helsinki (2 hours by train) and regular ferry connections to Stockholm, making it an excellent base for international professionals.

Key Points:

• Strong biotech and maritime sectors
• Rich cultural heritage
• Beautiful archipelago access
• Active student population
• Milder climate than inland cities
• Good international connections

4. Oulu

Known as the "Capital of Northern Scandinavia," Oulu has established itself as a major tech hub, particularly in wireless technology. The city combines Arctic location with cutting-edge innovation, supported by the BusinessOulu initiative.

Housing costs are notably lower than southern cities, with quality apartments available from €600-900 in central areas. The city's northern location means dramatic seasonal changes, with midnight sun in summer and dark winters, but excellent infrastructure makes this manageable.

Oulu's tech sector, anchored by the university and research centres, attracts international talent, particularly in telecommunications and IT.

Key Points:

• Leading wireless technology hub
• Affordable housing market
• Strong research and development sector
• Unique Arctic lifestyle
• Excellent winter sports facilities
• Growing international community

5. Jyväskylä

Located in central Finland, Jyväskylä is known for its education sector and design heritage. Home to significant Alvar Aalto architecture, the city offers a high quality of life with easy access to Finland's lake district.

The University of Jyväskylä attracts international academics and students, creating a cosmopolitan atmosphere in a medium-sized city. Housing costs are reasonable, with monthly rentals ranging from €500-800 for quality apartments.

The city's compact size and excellent public services make it particularly attractive for families and those seeking a balance between urban amenities and natural surroundings.

Key Points:

• Strong educational sector
• Affordable living costs
• Beautiful lake district location
• Active sports culture
• Rich architectural heritage
• Good work-life balance

6. Kuopio

Nestled in the heart of Finland's lake district, Kuopio has gained recognition for its high quality of life and growing health technology sector. The city's Health Kuopio initiative has attracted international healthcare professionals and researchers.

The city offers an authentic Finnish lifestyle with strong emphasis on well-being and outdoor activities. Housing costs are moderate, with quality apartments available from €500-800 monthly. The iconic Puijo Tower provides panoramic views of the surrounding lakes and forests that characterize the region.

Kuopio Science Park has become a significant hub for health technology and life sciences, creating opportunities for international professionals in these sectors.

Key Points:

• Leading health technology cluster
• Excellent outdoor recreation facilities
• Strong focus on well-being
• Affordable living costs
• Beautiful natural surroundings
• Growing international healthcare community

7. Vaasa

Known for its energy technology cluster and bilingual culture (Finnish-Swedish), Vaasa offers a unique coastal living experience. The city's Energy & Cleantech sector has attracted significant international investment.

Housing costs are reasonable, with monthly rentals ranging from €600-900 for quality apartments. The city's Swedish-speaking minority (25%) creates a distinctly Scandinavian atmosphere, making it easier for international residents to integrate.

The coastal location provides beautiful archipelago views and outdoor recreation opportunities, while the energy sector offers strong employment prospects.

Key Points:

• Strong energy technology sector
• Bilingual environment
• Coastal lifestyle
• Good international schools
• Strong Nordic business connections
• Active expatriate community

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Living in Finland: Target Group Considerations

For Professionals

Finland offers excellent opportunities for skilled professionals, particularly in technology, healthcare, and clean energy sectors. The Work in Finland platform provides comprehensive information about job opportunities and work permits.

Finnish work culture emphasizes work-life balance, with flexible hours and generous holiday allowances being the norm. The country's reputation for innovation makes it particularly attractive for tech professionals.

Key Points:

• Strong tech and innovation sectors
• Excellent work-life balance
• Competitive salaries
• Progressive work culture
• Good career advancement opportunities
• High standard of workplace equality

For Families

Finland is renowned for its family-friendly policies and excellent education system. The Finnish National Agency for Education provides information about the country's acclaimed education system, which is free at all levels.

The extensive social welfare system includes generous parental leave, child benefits, and high-quality daycare options. Cities offer numerous family-oriented activities and services.

Key Points:

• World-class education system
• Extensive family benefits
• Safe environment
• Excellent healthcare
• High-quality childcare options
• Strong support for working parents

For Students

Finland attracts international students with its high-quality education and the opportunity to study in English. The Study in Finland platform provides comprehensive information about higher education opportunities.

While EU/EEA students can study for free, non-EU students face moderate tuition fees but can benefit from various scholarship opportunities and the possibility to work part-time during studies.

Key Points:

• High-quality education system
• Many English-taught programmes
• Strong research opportunities
• Part-time work possibilities
• Active student communities
• Good post-graduation prospects

Conclusion

Finland offers a unique combination of social security, natural beauty, and technological innovation. The country's commitment to equality, sustainability, and work-life balance makes it an attractive destination for expats seeking a high quality of life.

Success when moving to Finland from the UK often depends on understanding and adapting to the local culture. While Finns may seem reserved initially, they value honesty and directness in communication. The dark winters can be challenging, but Finns have mastered the art of creating cozy indoor environments ('hygge') and making the most of summer light.

The Finland Toolbox provides resources for understanding Finnish culture and society. For those considering the move, it's recommended to:

1. Visit during different seasons to understand the dramatic seasonal changes
2. Begin learning basic Finnish or Swedish, though English is widely spoken
3. Connect with expat communities through platforms like Finland Forum
4. Research specific city neighborhoods that match your lifestyle needs
5. Understand the tax system and cost of living, which are high but offset by excellent public services

While the adjustment period may take time, Finland's combination of social stability, natural beauty, and innovation continues to attract international residents seeking a balanced, high-quality lifestyle in one of the world's most successful societies.

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