Most Popular Residential Areas in Finland in 2025: Where People Buy and Invest

Etuovi.com

In 2025, the greatest demand for real estate in Finland remains concentrated in key neighborhoods of major cities — such as Töölö in Helsinki and Tapiola in Espoo — according to the Helsinki Times, citing search data from Etuovi.com. These areas continue to attract interest due to high liquidity, strong infrastructure, and stable urban economies. However, it is worth noting that rental yields in Finland remain relatively low, making residential property investment less profitable than in many other European countries.

Regional Demand Trends

Based on search data collected from January 1 to March 11, 2025, Töölö, Lauttasaari, and Ullanlinna were the most sought-after neighborhoods in Helsinki. Despite Kallio having a faster average sale period (67 days), Laajasalo returned to the Top 10 in 2025, with an average sale time of 82 days.

In Espoo, Tapiola leads the ranking, followed by Matinkylä and Haukilahti. The average selling time in Espoo is 101 days, though in Mankkaa it's just 50. Vantaa sees the highest demand in Tikkurila, while the fastest sales occur in Kartanonkoski (43 days) and Ylästö (53).

In Tampere and Turku, central districts dominate: Keskusta, Kaleva, and Pyynikki in Tampere, and Keskusta, Itäinen Keskusta, and Hirvensalo in Turku. Fastest sales occur in Pispala (Tampere) and Vasaramäki and Kupittaa (Turku).

In northern Finland, neighborhoods in Oulu such as Haukipudas, Oulunsalo, and Metsokangas are popular, while Kivikkokangas tops the chart with an average selling time of just 26 days.

Housing Prices & Ownership Costs

According to Statistics Finland, the average price per square meter in the secondary market is €2,609, while new builds cost an average of €4,954. Despite nominal increases, inflation-adjusted prices remain stagnant or declining — especially in the Helsinki capital region.

The Pellervo Economic Research Institute (PTT) says the new construction market remains unstable, with just 20,000 new units projected for 2025 compared to a long-term demand of 38,000. High construction costs and developer marketing pressures have slowed market recovery.

Property upkeep costs also vary significantly. For a 120 m² private house with electric heating, average annual costs are €5,836. The highest costs are in Nurmijärvi (€6,986), the lowest in Seinäjoki (€4,554). Electricity, water, and waste management fees vary widely — e.g., electricity is €0.2023/kWh in Nurmijärvi and €0.0901 in Seinäjoki. A potential reform in water pricing laws could further affect operational costs.

Investment Attractiveness

CBRE experts highlight the residential sector as the most attractive in Finland’s real estate market. About 40% of Nordic investors prefer it, and 85% expect rental growth over the next three years. Prime rental yields reach 4.5% in Helsinki, and up to 5% in Tampere and Turku.

Global Property Guide estimates average rental yields at 3.57% in Helsinki — lower than cities like Riga (8.47%) or Belgrade (8.25%). The high property prices and stable rents in Helsinki limit returns. According to Numbeo, rental yields vary: 3.0% in Helsinki, 3.8% in Tampere, 4.0% in Turku, and 4.2% in Oulu.

Thus, expected yields range from 3% to 5%, depending on location, asset type, and strategy. Liquidity is highest in Helsinki, while secondary cities carry higher investment risks.

Outlook for 2025

Despite Finland’s relatively low profitability, investor interest remains high due to supply constraints and steady urban demand. However, non-EU investor restrictions — especially those affecting Russian nationals — may reduce foreign inflows.

Finland remains a transparent, reliable market with strong institutional frameworks, but the low yield environment and regional operating cost disparities require precise targeting and strategic planning for success.