High quality of living

Helsinki is one of the cleanest cities in Europe according to many international studies, rated high in health and sanitation. Helsinki’s district heating and cooling system is advanced, and the drinking water is some of the best in the world.

Helsinki offers its residents many alternatives of housing to suit different lifestyles and life situations.

On a fast growth track

Helsinki is one of the fastest growing metropolises in Europe. Housing construction and development of new areas for housing are key priorities for the City. To meet the need for new housing and to secure adequate workforce in the city, Helsinki aims at 5,000 new housing units per year, available for residents at reasonable cost.

Development in Helsinki aims at harmonious urban environments in varied types of housing. New districts will be developed on the principle of mixed use – mixing housing with commerce and services, as well as mixing various types of housing in the same neighbourhood to promote diversity. There is a heavy emphasis on public transport.

Environmental sustainability is a key consideration in all development.

New districts

New housing and working districts are emerging in areas vacated from former port and industrial operations, many of these on the waterfront.

These districts include Jätkäsaari, a former cargo port site, which will be home for 16,000 residents and provide jobs for 6,000 by 2025.

A similar development is underway in Kalasatama, slated to provide homes for 18,000 and jobs for 10,000 by 2035.

Kruunuvuorenranta, a waterfront district vacated from oil storage tanks, will be transformed into a pleasant residential neighbourhood for 10,000 by 2025.

Districts with brands

Each new district will be developed with its own profile.

Arabianranta is already the Art and Design City, thanks to its focus on art and design education and jobs.

Viikki, centred around biosciences research and education at the University of Helsinki, is characterized by ecological lifestyles and closeness to nature.

Jätkäsaari will continue to host a harbour for international cruise ships and for ferries to Tallinn, and it will have a strong maritime flavour.

Kalasatama will have a focus on culture and food, relying on the old Suvilahti power plant turned into a cultural centre and many food suppliers in the area including a new food wholesale market.

Central Pasila will be a place for urban city dwellers, with high-rise apartment buildings.

Many districts can incorporate car-less city blocks for people who prefer not to own a car.