Housing in Helsinki
To find housing in Helsinki, search Oikotie and Vuokraovi daily, apply to several homes at once and have proof of income and ID ready. Rental demand is high and suburbs cost less than central areas. By law the deposit is at most three months' rent.
Last updated
Market overview
- Average rent
- Varies by area
Neighborhood guide
Kallio
Best for: Young professionals, creatives, social life seekers
- + Historic Art Nouveau buildings
- + Creative scene
- + Central location
- • Noisy on weekends
- • Older buildings
- • Parking difficult
Punavuori
Best for: Design enthusiasts, professionals, mature urbanites
- + Design District boutiques
- + Art Nouveau architecture
- + Art galleries
- + Walking distance to everything
- • Expensive
- • Limited parking
- • Few large apartments
Lauttasaari
Best for: Families, professionals wanting nature
- + Sea access and beaches
- + Good schools
- + Metro connection
- + Community feel
- + Water sports
- • Higher prices for sea views
- • Limited nightlife
Vuosaari
Best for: Families, budget-conscious, nature lovers
- + Nature reserve
- + Full local amenities
- + Diverse community
- + Metro access
- • 25 min from center
- • Industrial port nearby
Housing platforms
- VuokraoviLargest private rental platform (private)
- Oikotie AsunnotReal estate with rentals (private)
- Facebook GroupsHelsinki vuokra-asunnot + English groups (private)
- HOASStudent housing foundation (Helsinki region) (student)
- HEKACity-owned rental homes, apply via the City of Helsinki (social)
- LumoModern apartments, amenities included (company)
- SATOLarge portfolio, online applications (company)
Initial costs
Monthly costs
Pro tips
- Start searching 2-3 months before move date
- Respond to listings within hours
- Have documents ready to attach immediately
- Express interest clearly at viewings - Finns appreciate directness
Checklist
- Gather all documents (income proof, ID, references)
- Set up accounts on Vuokraovi, Oikotie
- Join Facebook housing groups
- Set search alerts with criteria
- Research target neighborhoods
- Respond to listings within hours
- Attend all possible viewings
- Sign contract and pay deposit
- Register address at DVV
- Set up electricity and insurance
Required documents
- Proof of income (employment contract + 2 payslips)
- ID copy (passport or residence permit)
- Bank statements (3 months - some landlords)
- Cover letter (brief introduction)
- References (previous landlord if available)
Housing in Helsinki: FAQ
How do I find an apartment in Helsinki as a newcomer?
Most newcomers who work in Helsinki rent on the open market. The City of Helsinki names Oikotie and Vuokraovi as the main listing sites and advises applying to several homes at once. Be open to different districts, because suburbs are generally cheaper than central areas.
How much deposit will a Helsinki landlord ask for?
A rental deposit can be at most three months' rent under Finnish law. Do not pay a deposit before you have viewed the home and received a written lease.
Can I get a city-owned Heka apartment?
Heka is the City of Helsinki's rental housing company. You apply through the city's online application. Your income and wealth must be under the set limits, and homes go to applicants with the greatest housing need. Demand is far higher than supply, so also search the open market.
Can I get housing allowance in Helsinki?
Kela pays general housing allowance to low-income households living permanently in Finland, usually counted from about one year after moving; EU/EEA/Swiss citizens who move to Finland to work may qualify sooner. Students generally get the student housing supplement instead. Check your own situation with Kela.
How much notice do I need to give to end a Helsinki lease?
A tenant on an open-ended lease gives one calendar month's notice. A landlord must give three months if the lease has run under a year and six months if longer. A fixed-term lease ends on its end date.