Helsinki

Founded 1550
Capital of Finland since 1812

Geography and environment

Total area 716 sq.km
Sea 503 sq.km
Land 213 sq.km
Islands 315
Mean temperature (2011, 12 months) 7.2 °C
Warmest month July, mean temperature 20.6°C
Coldest month January, mean temperature -9.9°C

Population

Total population (1 January 2012) 595,384
Men 49%
Women 51%
Finnish-speaking 90%
Swedish-speaking 5.4%
Other languages 4.6%
Population density (1 January 2012) 2,800 inhabitants per sq.km

Helsinki Region

Helsinki Region Portal provides an easy access to information about joint services and the decision making in the area.

Population (1 January 2012) 1,366,241
GNP per capita (PPS, EU27=100), 160.3 euro
Jobs (2011) 744,662
Employed (2011, 15-74 olds) 704,888
Unemployment rate (2011) 6.0%
Share of population with tertiary education (31 December 2010) 38%

Statistical information on Helsinki is available from the City of Helsinki Urban Facts.

Facts about Helsinki 2012 (pdf)

City government
The highest decision-making organ in Helsinki is the City Council. The Council makes the most important financial decisions as well as those related to City administration.

Virka Info
Virka Info is a public information service, offering information on the city of Helsinki and the services and amenities available.
Virka-info tel. information service (09) 310 11 111 Mon-Fri 9-15
Opening hours Mon-Fri 9-19, Sat-Sun 10-16, City Hall, Pohjoisesplanadi 11-13, Helsinki.