Finland – Finding Property to Rent

Where are the most popular areas for expats to rent in Finland, and why do foreigners tend to choose these neighbourhoods or cities?

As Finland’s capital and its economic and cultural centre, Helsinki draws the largest share of international arrivals — particularly those employed in technology, finance, international organisations, or the public sector. The city’s combination of professional opportunity, high quality of life, and strong infrastructure makes it the default first destination for most newly arrived foreign residents.

Helsinki is divided into eight major districts and 34 subdistricts, giving expats a broad spectrum of environments to choose from. Whether you prefer the buzz of a central neighbourhood or the calm of a suburban setting, the city accommodates both. Walkability is high throughout, and the public transport network is extensive and reliable, meaning most residents can manage daily life without a car.

As of early 2026, average rents for a one-bedroom flat in Helsinki run to approximately €1,150 per month for units in the typical 35–45 square metre range, with the lower end of the market — around €900 — found in outer districts such as Kontula and Vuosaari, and the upper end reaching €1,500 or more in premium locations like Ullanlinna, Eira, and Punavuori. These figures shift regularly, so always cross-reference current listings before drawing conclusions.

Among Helsinki’s neighbourhoods, Kallio and Punavuori consistently attract international residents. Kallio in particular has a reputation for energy, affordability, and cultural diversity, making it a favourite with younger expats and students. Punavuori appeals to those who value proximity to the city’s design and arts scene alongside excellent transport links.

For those with tighter budgets, the adjacent cities of Espoo and Vantaa offer more accessible rents while remaining well connected to central Helsinki by metro and commuter train. Both cities have a cosmopolitan character, shaped by a mix of students, professionals, and entrepreneurs, and neither should be dismissed as a purely suburban option.

Beyond the capital region, Tampere stands out as Finland’s largest inland city — a dynamic university and technology hub where rents are noticeably lower than in Helsinki and the international community is steadily growing. Turku, the historic former capital and a significant port and university city, sits at a price point slightly below Tampere and offers expats a more relaxed pace alongside a strong sense of local identity.

Demographic projections further reinforce the rental market appeal of these cities: Espoo, Vantaa, Helsinki, and Tampere are forecast to be Finland’s fastest-growing municipalities between 2024 and 2050. This population growth underpins sustained demand for rental housing. For current rent benchmarks, consult portals such as Vuokraovi.com or Statistics Finland’s official rent index (ASVU).

What are the main property rental websites in Finland, and which ones are most useful for expats?

The majority of Finnish property search platforms operate primarily in Finnish, but this need not be an obstacle. Chrome’s built-in translation function works effectively on most portals, and several of the key platforms offer at least partial English-language support. The portals below are the most widely used and trusted options for both locals and international renters.

• Vuokraovi.com — One of Finland’s largest dedicated rental portals, Vuokraovi focuses exclusively on rental listings and provides easy filtering by location, size, and price. It is widely used by both private landlords and property management companies, and its comprehensive coverage makes it an essential starting point for any rental search.
• Oikotie Asunnot — A broad real estate portal covering the whole of Finland, Oikotie Asunnot combines rental listings with detailed property descriptions and direct contact information for agents and owners alike.
• Etuovi.com — Among the most visited real estate websites in Finland, Etuovi carries an extensive range of rental properties including apartments, houses, and holiday lets, with search tools allowing filtering by area, price, and property type.
• Lumo.fi — Lumo is a major institutional landlord with a fully English-language website and a streamlined online application process, enabling applicants to search and apply entirely through the platform. The range of available apartments spans multiple cities across Finland.
• SATO.fi — SATO offers rental apartments across Helsinki, Espoo, Vantaa, Tampere, Turku, and their surrounding areas. The website is fully available in English, and SATO is notable for typically requiring no security deposit and for welcoming pets — making it a popular choice for newly arrived international residents.
• Forenom.com — Forenom specialises in furnished and serviced apartments aimed at those needing short-term or corporate accommodation. Its portfolio is well suited to expats who need somewhere to stay immediately on arrival while a longer-term home is secured.
• Kodisto.fi — A Finland-wide rental search platform available in English, Kodisto is a particularly accessible option for those not yet comfortable navigating Finnish-language sites.
• HousingAnywhere — A trusted mid-term rental platform serving international students and relocating professionals, HousingAnywhere lists properties in English and makes it straightforward to filter for furnished units and short-term availability.
• Habita.com — An estate agency with a Finland-wide property search covering both rental and purchase options, Habita supports multiple languages and is a solid resource for expats exploring the broader market.

Note: Some aggregator sites have attracted complaints about unauthorised listings. Research has identified “spam/fraud site” reports against certain portals, with recurring issues including subscriptions that cannot be cancelled and listings that either do not exist or have been posted without permission — Finnish real estate group TA-Yhtiöt, for example, named one aggregator as having listed its properties without authorisation. To keep your search safe and productive, stick to the well-established portals listed above.

Which letting agencies operate in Finland, and how can expats contact them?

Letting agencies and institutional landlords in Finland can simplify the rental search considerably, offering professional guidance, wider access to available properties, and familiarity with local market conditions. It is worth noting, however, that estate agents in Helsinki tend to charge fees that are on the high side by international comparison, so it pays to understand the cost structure before engaging one.

• Lumo — One of Finland’s largest private landlords, Lumo operates across the country with a fully English-language website and an efficient online application process. Many of their properties require no security deposit (as of 2025), which reduces the upfront cost of moving in.
• SATO — A major rental housing provider with properties in Helsinki, Espoo, Vantaa, Tampere, Turku, and surrounding commuter areas. SATO’s English-language website makes exploring its inventory straightforward, and its zero-deposit and pet-friendly policies are widely appreciated by international tenants.
• Kiinteistömaailma — A well-established real estate agency with offices across Finland, Kiinteistömaailma forms part of the OP financial group network. It maintains a strong online presence and enables users to connect with local agents for rental enquiries.
• RE/MAX Finland — The Finnish branch of the international RE/MAX franchise, offering property search in English through a network of independent agents based in major cities. RE/MAX agents are experienced in handling relocating clients and can assist with the specific needs of incoming international residents.
• Premises — A Helsinki-based agency that focuses specifically on serving the international community in the capital region, making it a natural choice for expats who prefer to work with an agent familiar with the needs of foreign renters.
• Bo LKV — A prominent Finnish real estate agency providing rental services for apartments, houses, and commercial premises, with offices in locations across the country.
• OVV.com — A Finland-wide rental and sales portal and agency whose search function is available in English, making it accessible even for those with limited Finnish language skills.
• Newsec Finland — Originally founded in Sweden in 1994, Newsec now operates across seven markets and employs more than 650 professionals in Finland. The firm provides rental property strategies and services for both residential and commercial properties, and is especially relevant for corporate and executive relocations.

Employers frequently assist incoming staff with housing searches, and where this is not the case, engaging a letting agent can save considerable time in a competitive market. If you are arriving as part of a corporate relocation, it is worth checking whether your employer’s HR department has a preferred relocation partner already in place.

Are there any other ways to find rental property in Finland beyond the main websites and agencies?

Occupancy rates in Helsinki and other major Finnish cities are high, and well-priced properties are claimed quickly. Personal networks can be genuinely valuable here — a significant number of apartments are rented through word of mouth before ever appearing on a portal or in an agency’s listings. Making connections through colleagues, fellow students, or community groups can therefore give you an edge.

Beyond the main portals and agencies, the following routes are worth considering:

• Facebook groups — Communities such as “Expats in Helsinki”, “Helsinki Expats”, “Apartments for Rent in Helsinki”, and city-specific groups for Tampere and Turku are actively used by both landlords and prospective tenants. Listings sometimes appear here before reaching the main portals, and the groups allow direct communication with property owners.
• InfoFinland.fi — The official multilingual information service for immigrants in Finland (infofinland.fi/en/housing) offers practical guidance on finding a rental home and links to official resources in multiple languages.
• Forenom and corporate housing providers — Forenom’s furnished and serviced apartments are well suited to those who need immediate housing on arrival. Staying in short-term furnished accommodation for the first few weeks gives you time to search for a longer-term home without pressure.
• Condo Project Accommodation — A specialist in project-based accommodation, Condo arranges lodgings across Finland for groups of up to 200 people, as well as in Sweden, and also provides corporate accommodation solutions.
• University and employer noticeboards — Aalto University, the University of Helsinki, and Tampere University all operate housing notice boards or dedicated housing services for incoming students and staff. Major employers in the technology and engineering sectors often maintain links with relocation consultants who can assist with housing.
• Relocation consultants — Specialist relocation firms operating in Finland — typically accessed through international HR networks or an employer’s recommended suppliers — can manage the entire property search, application, and move-in process. This is particularly useful when relocating from overseas with limited time to search in person.
• Direct approaches to landlords — Some private landlords advertise through community noticeboards in supermarkets, laundromats, and local libraries, as well as through the classified sections of local newspapers such as Helsingin Sanomat. These channels are less visible but occasionally surface good options before they reach wider audiences.

What should expats expect when viewing and applying for a rental property in Finland?

Once a suitable property has been identified, it is important to act promptly. In Helsinki and other city centres, well-priced rentals attract multiple enquiries within hours of being listed. Before signing anything, take time to fully understand the terms of the tenancy agreement and confirm with the landlord exactly what is — and is not — included in the property.

The typical steps in Finland’s rental application process are as follows:

1. Search and shortlist. Use the main portals (Vuokraovi, Oikotie, Lumo, SATO) to identify properties that match your budget, location preference, and size requirements. Set up email alerts to receive notifications of new listings as they appear.
2. Request a viewing. Get in touch with the landlord or agency via the portal’s messaging function or by telephone. In competitive areas, speed matters — popular properties receive a high volume of enquiries shortly after being listed.
3. Attend the viewing. Viewings are typically arranged on an individual basis or as open-house sessions. Use the opportunity to assess the property’s condition and ask what is included — appliances, internet access, parking — and what is not.
4. Submit an application. Be ready to provide evidence of income and to pay a security deposit of one to three months’ rent, which will be returned when you vacate. Landlords may also ask for a credit check, references, and documentary confirmation of your legal right to reside in Finland, such as a residence permit or proof of EU right of residence.
5. Credit check. Finnish landlords routinely check applicants’ credit records using services such as Asiakastieto. New arrivals who have not yet established a Finnish credit history may be asked for supplementary materials, such as a current employment contract or a supporting letter from an employer.
6. Sign the lease. A written lease is essential — always insist on one. The agreement will set out the monthly rent, the deposit amount, and the procedure for ending the tenancy.
7. Pay the deposit and first month’s rent. The deposit must be paid by the date specified in the tenancy agreement. In most cases, keys are handed over once the deposit has been received.
8. Move-in inspection. Carry out a thorough inspection of the property at the start of the tenancy and record any pre-existing damage in writing, with dated photographs. This record is important when it comes to recovering your deposit at the end of the lease.

Finland’s rental process tends to be more direct than in countries such as Australia or the UK, where standardised online application platforms and formal reference-checking systems are commonplace. Here, the process is typically a straightforward exchange between tenant and landlord, followed by a written lease and deposit payment. There is no universal tenant-paid letting agent fee in Finland, though some agencies do charge one — see the costs section for further detail.

Competition for rental homes is particularly strong in Helsinki, Tampere, and Turku. Prospective tenants should also be aware that most available units are small — typically one or two rooms — so it is sensible to calibrate expectations accordingly, especially if you are accustomed to larger properties elsewhere.

What are the typical costs involved in renting a property in Finland?

Having a clear picture of the full financial commitment before signing a lease helps avoid unexpected expenses later. The main costs to consider are set out below.

Security deposit

Almost all tenancy agreements in Finland require a security deposit paid in advance to the landlord. The deposit is typically equivalent to two months’ rent and cannot exceed three months’ rent by law. This framework is comparable to Germany, where the same three-month cap applies, though it differs from the UK, where deposits are generally capped at five weeks’ rent. For current guidance, consult the Consumers’ Union of Finland (Kuluttajaliitto).

It is worth noting that some major institutional landlords have moved away from deposits entirely: Lumo, for example, offers a €0 deposit with a 100% satisfaction guarantee on many properties (as of 2025). Always confirm the current terms directly with the landlord before applying.

Agency fees

Where a letting agent is involved, a commission fee is generally charged. Agency fees in Finland can be high relative to international norms. Commission is usually borne by the landlord when the agent is acting on the landlord’s behalf, but this is not universal — always ask upfront who is responsible for the fee before committing to any agency arrangement.

Rent levels

As of early 2026, the average one-bedroom apartment in Helsinki rents for approximately €1,150 per month for units in the 35–45 square metre range, with cheaper options in outlying neighbourhoods around €900 and premium central addresses reaching €1,500 or above. Rents in Tampere and Turku are considerably lower and offer more space for the price. Always verify current figures through live listings or the Statistics Finland rent index.

Utilities

In Helsinki, it is common for landlords to cover water and heating costs as part of the housing company fees, while electricity and internet are typically the tenant’s responsibility. Water is broadly priced at €20–40 per person per month, and district heating is embedded in housing fees at roughly €50–80 per month. In practice, tenants can generally expect to pay for apartment electricity and internet, while water, heating, and building maintenance are covered by the landlord. These figures apply as of 2025/2026 — confirm arrangements with your specific landlord and check current tariffs before signing.

Finland operates a deregulated electricity market, which means residents can choose their own electricity supplier. It is advisable to compare tariffs using the national energy marketplace before committing to a contract.

Other ongoing costs

Some properties include access to a shared laundry room, parking, or a sauna — the last of which will quickly become familiar to newcomers in Finland. Additional charges for these facilities may apply and should be discussed with the landlord before signing. Internet access is not usually included in rent and must be arranged independently, though Finland’s broadband infrastructure is excellent and pricing is competitive. There are no local rental taxes levied on tenants in Finland.

For the most up-to-date cost guidance, refer to the Finnish Competition and Consumer Authority (KKV) or the Consumers’ Union of Finland.

What are renters’ rights and tenant protections like in Finland?

Finland’s residential tenancy law is clear, comprehensive, and strongly protective of tenants. The primary legislation is the Act on Residential Leases 1995 (Laki asuinhuoneiston vuokrauksesta), which defines the rights and obligations of both landlords and tenants. An unofficial English translation is available online for those who wish to read it.

Lease types and notice periods

There are two principal forms of tenancy in Finland. An open-ended lease continues until one party formally terminates it — this arrangement suits those who are uncertain how long they will remain in Finland. A fixed-term lease specifies an agreed end date in advance; it terminates automatically on that date, requiring no separate notice from either party, and if the tenant wishes to remain beyond the end date, a new agreement must be concluded.

Under an open-ended agreement, tenants may terminate at any time by providing one calendar month’s notice. If notice is given part-way through a month, the tenancy and rental obligation typically extend to the end of the following month. Landlords wishing to end an open-ended tenancy must give three calendar months’ notice during the first year and six calendar months’ notice in all subsequent years — a meaningfully stronger protection for tenants than is standard in many other countries.

Rent increases

Rent adjustments must be grounded in the lease agreement itself, whether through indexation, percentage increases, or fixed euro amounts, with the legal framework set out in the Act on Residential Leases. A landlord intending to raise the rent must notify the tenant in writing, stating the new amount and the date from which it applies. Tenants may request clarification and have the right to contest any increase they consider unreasonable.

Deposit protection

Landlords are permitted to require a security deposit to cover unpaid rent or damage to the property, but the amount is capped at three months’ rent — most commonly set at one or two months. If rent has been paid in full and the property has not been damaged beyond normal wear and tear, the deposit must be returned in its entirety at the end of the tenancy. Unlike in the UK, where landlords are legally required to hold deposits in an approved third-party protection scheme, Finland imposes no such requirement — deposits are generally held directly by the landlord. This makes thorough documentation of the property’s condition at move-in all the more important.

Landlord access and tenant protections

Tenants are required to pay rent on time, maintain the property in normal condition, and observe the building’s rules. Any damage to the property must be reported to the landlord promptly, and tenants may be liable for compensation beyond ordinary wear and tear. Landlords must give reasonable prior notice before accessing the property and may not enter without the tenant’s consent except in genuine emergencies.

Tenants have the right to challenge a landlord’s decision to terminate a rental agreement and may be entitled to compensation of up to three months’ rent for inconvenience, in addition to any other damages. For advice on disputes or guidance on tenant rights, contact the Finnish Competition and Consumer Authority (KKV), the Consumers’ Union of Finland (Kuluttajaliitto), or consult the InfoFinland housing pages, which provide accessible guidance in multiple languages.

What practical tips should expats keep in mind when renting in Finland?

Avoiding rental scams

Never transfer money to a landlord or agent before a written lease agreement has been signed. Be cautious of listings with rents that seem unusually low, landlords who claim to be overseas and are therefore unable to show the property, or anyone requesting payment by wire transfer or gift card prior to signing a contract. Finland’s rental market is generally considered stable, transparent, and well-regulated, with strong legal protections for property rights — but this does not eliminate the risk of online scams, and vigilance remains important.

Conduct a thorough move-in inspection

The most effective protection against deposit disputes is a thorough written record of the property’s condition at the start of the tenancy, ideally compiled together with the landlord. The same process should be repeated at the end of the lease. Take dated photographs of every room and all surfaces when the keys are handed over. This is the single most valuable practical step you can take to safeguard your deposit.

Understand Finnish lease terms

Finnish tenancy agreements may include rent adjustment clauses that allow increases based on indexation, percentage increments, or fixed euro amounts. Before signing, make sure you understand precisely how and when any such increases might apply. Landlords are required to notify tenants of any impending increase in writing, specifying both the new amount and the effective date.

A common source of confusion for newcomers is the calculation of notice periods. In Finland, notice periods are measured in calendar months starting from the end of the month in which notice was given — not from the specific date of notification. Accepting this from the outset avoids unnecessary disputes later.

Furnished versus unfurnished

Most privately rented properties in Finland are unfurnished or only partly furnished. Standard fixtures such as light fittings, carpets, and curtains are not always provided, though appliances such as a fridge or washing machine may be included. Always clarify exactly what is part of the letting before committing. Finland has an active furniture rental market — companies such as Furent operate nationwide and can furnish a flat to your requirements — which is a useful option for those arriving without their own possessions.

Register your address

Once your lease is signed, register your new address with the Digital and Population Data Services Agency (DVV). This step is required to access Finnish public services and, where applicable, to fulfil residence permit obligations.

Cultural considerations

Landlord-tenant relationships in Finland tend to be professional and relatively formal, with communication that is direct and to the point. Quiet hours — typically 10pm to 8am — are widely observed and taken seriously by building residents. Adhering to building rules on noise levels, recycling, and the use of shared facilities is both expected and important for maintaining good relations with neighbours. Many Finnish apartment buildings include a shared sauna that can be booked via a sign-up sheet — a genuinely distinctive feature of Finnish living that is worth enquiring about when you view a property.

Illegal lease clauses

It is important to be aware that certain contractual clauses that reduce your rights below the statutory minimum may be legally void, even if you have already signed the agreement. If anything in a proposed lease appears unusual, unreasonable, or difficult to understand, seek independent advice from the Consumers’ Union of Finland or the KKV before putting pen to paper.

Frequently asked questions

Can foreigners rent property freely in Finland?

Yes. Finland imposes no nationality-based restrictions on renting residential property. Any person with a valid right to reside in Finland — as an EU/EEA citizen, a permit holder, or in certain cases on a short stay — can access the private rental market. As part of the application process, landlords may ask for documentary evidence of your legal right to reside in Finland.

What documents are typically required to rent in Finland?

Most landlords request proof of income — such as recent payslips or a signed employment contract — a valid identity document (passport or national ID card), and confirmation of your right to reside in Finland. A credit check through Finnish databases such as Asiakastieto is routine. Applicants who have not yet built a Finnish credit record may be asked to provide supplementary materials, such as a reference letter from an employer.

How long are typical rental leases in Finland?

Most leases run for a year, but Finland recognises two main types of tenancy agreement: fixed-term and open-ended. A fixed-term lease runs until a date agreed by both parties and ends automatically without further notice. An open-ended lease continues indefinitely until either party decides to terminate it, offering greater flexibility for those whose plans may be subject to change.

Are rental properties in Finland typically furnished or unfurnished?

The majority of privately rented properties in Finland come unfurnished or only partially furnished. Standard items such as light fittings, carpets, and curtains are not necessarily provided, although kitchen appliances like a fridge or washing machine are sometimes included. Fully furnished options are available through platforms such as Forenom and HousingAnywhere, particularly for short-term or corporate lets. If a furnished flat is a priority, filter specifically for this on the portals or contact a specialist furnished apartment provider.

What is the typical notice period for tenants in Finland?

Under an open-ended lease, tenants can end the tenancy by giving one calendar month’s notice. If notice is given during the middle of a month, the obligation to pay rent typically runs through to the end of the following month. Fixed-term leases specify an end date in the agreement itself, and neither party can withdraw before that date without mutual consent.

Are pets allowed in rental properties in Finland?

Pet policies differ from one landlord to another. Some institutional landlords, such as SATO, explicitly permit pets and state this clearly on their website. For private landlords, it is always advisable to raise the question of pets before applying, as the policy should be reflected in or attached to the tenancy agreement. There is no national rule in Finland either permitting or prohibiting pets in rented accommodation — it is a matter left to individual landlords.

How do I handle a dispute with my landlord in Finland?

If a landlord refuses to return a deposit or behaves unfairly, begin by requesting a written explanation accompanied by any receipts or cost estimates. If direct negotiation does not resolve the matter, seek guidance from a tenant organisation or the consumer ombudsman. Both the Finnish Competition and Consumer Authority (KKV) and the Consumers’ Union of Finland (Kuluttajaliitto) offer assistance, and disputes that cannot be settled informally may be referred to the Consumer Disputes Board (Kuluttajariitalautakunta).

Is state-subsidised housing available to foreign residents in Finland?

Foreign residents holding Finnish citizenship or a valid residence permit are eligible to apply for municipal or state-subsidised housing. However, waiting lists tend to be long, so it is advisable to register an interest well in advance and to consider areas outside the Helsinki city centre — such as Espoo and Vantaa — where availability may be better. The Housing Finance and Development Centre of Finland (ARA) provides detailed information on subsidised housing options.