Working in Helsinki appears attractive to many, both those living in the city and those living outside it. Photo: Jussi Hellsten
- Next Article Finland to end national pension payments abroad in 2025
The number of people working in Helsinki while living elsewhere has increased, driven in part by changes following the COVID-19 pandemic. A recent study by the City of Helsinki indicates that while Helsinki remains an attractive place to work, the choice to commute is influenced by occupation, remote work options, and personal circumstances.
In 2022, 42% of those employed in Helsinki lived outside the city. Conversely, 24% of employed Helsinki residents worked in other municipalities.
The study highlights that commuting patterns differ by gender, age, employment sector, and profession.
The report also examined registered nurses as a case study, representing a group with limited remote work opportunities due to the nature of their work. In 2022, nearly 40% of nurses working in Helsinki lived outside the city. However, only about 10% of Helsinki-based nurses commuted to jobs outside the city. This demonstrates that healthcare jobs tend to be more location-specific than other professions.
The study found that most job-related relocations to Helsinki were driven by employment opportunities. Two-thirds of working people who moved to Helsinki were already employed in the city or began working there after relocating. On the other hand, many employed residents who moved out of Helsinki did so for non-work-related reasons. Even after relocating, nearly half retained jobs in Helsinki.
Different occupations show varying trends in cross-border commuting. Construction workers and executives are more likely to live outside Helsinki, with 55% and 49% respectively commuting into the city. In contrast, only 32% of service and sales workers employed in Helsinki live outside the city. Because these jobs often require physical presence, commuting distance significantly affects decisions about where to live and work.
Helsinki’s appeal as a workplace is evident. Many individuals choose to live elsewhere while maintaining jobs in the city, and some relocate to Helsinki specifically for employment. This dynamic supports Helsinki’s labor market but underscores ongoing challenges in securing skilled professionals in certain sectors.
The cost and time associated with commuting remain crucial factors, particularly for jobs with limited remote work options and lower wages. Ensuring affordable housing within a reasonable distance from workplaces in Helsinki is essential to maintain workforce availability. Keeping commuting costs manageable will also be key to supporting workers in these professions.
Laura Ansala, Senior Researcher for the City of Helsinki, noted that despite the city’s strong labor market, shortages persist in specific fields. Addressing these challenges will require balanced strategies that consider housing affordability and commuting expenses.
HT
- Next Article Finland to end national pension payments abroad in 2025
Source: www.helsinkitimes.fi
