The population of Finland, a Nordic country, has seen remarkable shifts throughout its history. Historically, Finland's population growth was relatively slow due to various factors, including a high infant mortality rate and periods of war that affected population numbers. However, over time, especially in the post-World War II era, Finland experienced significant demographic changes marked by rapid urbanization, industrialization, and improved healthcare, leading to a steady rise in population figures.
Population of Finland: 2022-2023
As of 2022-2023, Finland's estimated population is around 5.5 to 5.6 million people. Finland is known for its relatively small population compared to its geographical size. The Finnish government actively works on strategies to address demographic challenges, aiming to maintain a sustainable population growth rate and balance urban and rural development.
Population in Finland: density, growth rate
Finland's population density stands at around 18 inhabitants per square kilometer, considering its land area of roughly 338,000 square kilometers.
The population growth rate in Finland has been relatively modest in recent years. Factors contributing to this include low birth rates, an aging population, and migration patterns. Birth rates have been lower than the replacement rate needed to sustain the population without migration, leading to a slower natural population increase.
The population growth rate in Finland has been relatively modest in recent years. Factors contributing to this include low birth rates, an aging population, and migration patterns. Birth rates have been lower than the replacement rate needed to sustain the population without migration, leading to a slower natural population increase.
Finland cities by population
Urban centers like the Helsinki Metropolitan Area and other major cities, including Espoo, Tampere, and Turku, are among the most densely populated regions in Finland. These areas attract a significant portion of the population due to economic opportunities, educational institutions, and various amenities:
Rural areas, though less densely populated, contribute to the country's cultural heritage, particularly in sustaining traditional livelihoods like agriculture, forestry, and cottage industries.
- Helsinki. As the capital city, Helsinki is the largest urban area in Finland and also serves as the country's economic, cultural, and political center. With a population of over 650,000 people, it is home to various industries, educational institutions, and cultural attractions.
- Espoo. Located adjacent to Helsinki, Espoo is the second most populous city in Finland, with approximately 290,000 residents. It's known for its technological development, hosting several headquarters of technology companies.
- Tampere. As the largest inland city, Tampere has around 240,000 inhabitants. It is recognized for its industrial history, educational institutions, and vibrant cultural scene.
- Vantaa. Situated close to Helsinki, Vantaa is home to Helsinki Airport and has a population of about 230,000 residents. It serves as an essential transport hub for the region.
- Oulu. Located in northern Finland, Oulu has a population of around 200,000 people and is known for its technology sector and academic institutions.
- Turku. As one of Finland's oldest cities, Turku has a population of roughly 190,000 inhabitants. It has historical significance and is a center for education, culture, and tourism.
Rural areas, though less densely populated, contribute to the country's cultural heritage, particularly in sustaining traditional livelihoods like agriculture, forestry, and cottage industries.
Finland population by age
The population in Finland exhibits a diverse age distribution. According to recent data, there are approximately 901,859 young individuals under 15 years old, comprising 458,909 males and 443,005 females. The working-age population, which spans between 15 and 64 years old, constitutes 3,716,682 individuals, comprising 1,879,640 males and 1,837,042 females.
Additionally, there are around 1,001,216 persons aged 65 and older, with 412,097 males and 589,119 females. This demographic breakdown reflects a balance across various age brackets, encompassing children, the working-age population, and the elderly, contributing to Finland's diverse age composition.
Additionally, there are around 1,001,216 persons aged 65 and older, with 412,097 males and 589,119 females. This demographic breakdown reflects a balance across various age brackets, encompassing children, the working-age population, and the elderly, contributing to Finland's diverse age composition.
Finland population by religion
Historically, Finland has been predominantly Christian, with the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland being the largest religious group, followed by the Finnish Orthodox Church. Other religious denominations and non-religious or atheist groups also exist, contributing to the diverse religious landscape of the country.
The Evangelical Lutheran Church has historically held a significant influence on Finnish society and culture, as Finland was a part of the Kingdom of Sweden, where Lutheranism was the state religion. However, over the years, the country has become increasingly secular, with a growing number of people identifying as non-religious or having diverse beliefs, contributing to a decline in religious affiliations. This shift has led to a more pluralistic religious landscape in Finland.
The Evangelical Lutheran Church has historically held a significant influence on Finnish society and culture, as Finland was a part of the Kingdom of Sweden, where Lutheranism was the state religion. However, over the years, the country has become increasingly secular, with a growing number of people identifying as non-religious or having diverse beliefs, contributing to a decline in religious affiliations. This shift has led to a more pluralistic religious landscape in Finland.
Muslim population in Finland
As of the Finland official census, approximately 0.37% of the total population, which accounts for 20,876 individuals, were registered as belonging to Muslim communities in the country. However, it's important to note that the majority of Muslims in Finland are not affiliated with any registered religious communities, which indicates that the actual Muslim population might be higher than the official registered numbers.
The increase in the Muslim population in Finland is primarily attributed to immigration trends and refugee movements over the past few decades. Finland has seen an influx of migrants, asylum seekers, and refugees, especially from countries in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia. This migration, along with family reunification and other factors, has contributed to the growth of the Muslim community in Finland.
Moreover, increased globalization and cultural exchange have also played a role in the diversification of religious beliefs and practices within the Finnish society, leading to a gradual increase in the number of Muslims residing in the country.
The increase in the Muslim population in Finland is primarily attributed to immigration trends and refugee movements over the past few decades. Finland has seen an influx of migrants, asylum seekers, and refugees, especially from countries in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia. This migration, along with family reunification and other factors, has contributed to the growth of the Muslim community in Finland.
Moreover, increased globalization and cultural exchange have also played a role in the diversification of religious beliefs and practices within the Finnish society, leading to a gradual increase in the number of Muslims residing in the country.
What's the percentage of population of Christians in Finland?
In Finland, Christians make up a significant portion of the population. According to the latest data, approximately 65-70% of the Finnish population identifies as Christian. The two largest Christian denominations in Finland are the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland, to which a vast majority of Christians belong, and the Finnish Orthodox Church. These two branches constitute the majority of the Christian population in the country.
Finland population by race
The majority of the population in Finland consists of ethnic Finns, but there are also significant ethnic minorities, such as the Swedish-speaking Finns, Sami people (indigenous population in Lapland), Russian-speaking Finns, and various immigrant communities from around the world.
Black population in Finland
Finland is known for its relatively small percentage of residents with African or Black backgrounds compared to other ethnic groups. According to Statistics Finland, the total number of people in Finland with a close African background is 57,496, which is 1.0% of the population of Finland. 47,041 (81.8%) of them are from Sub-Saharan Africa. 32,511 (56.5%) of them are men, while 24,985 (43.5%) are women.
Asian population in Finland
Over the years, Finland has seen an increase in its Asian population due to globalization, educational exchanges, and employment opportunities. As of now, Asians constitute approximately 2.50% of the population in Finland compared to other racial groups.
Indian population in Finland
As of 2022, Finland was home to 11,634 individuals of Indian origin, with the majority residing in and around the capital, Helsinki. The Indian population in Finland has shown consistent growth in recent years, primarily driven by expanding educational and professional prospects.
They constitute a significant segment among Finland's foreign-born residents, often arriving in the country for academic pursuits, employment opportunities, or as part of their global professional endeavors. Precise statistics regarding the Indian community in Finland may vary over time due to evolving immigration trends and changing socio-economic conditions.
They constitute a significant segment among Finland's foreign-born residents, often arriving in the country for academic pursuits, employment opportunities, or as part of their global professional endeavors. Precise statistics regarding the Indian community in Finland may vary over time due to evolving immigration trends and changing socio-economic conditions.
Immigrant population in Finland
In 2022, Finland saw a significant surge in immigration, with a record high of 49,998 people arriving in the country, notably more than previous years (29,000 to 36,000). Immigrants mainly came from regions like Russia, the Philippines, and Turkey. This rise reflects a growing trend of people relocating for jobs, education, family, or refuge.
Finland ranks 26th in the OECD for its immigrant population, making up 4% of the total. Of these immigrants, 28% arrived in the last 5 years, higher than the OECD average of 22%. Authorities are adapting policies to aid immigrant integration, offering services and language support for their smooth settlement.
Finland ranks 26th in the OECD for its immigrant population, making up 4% of the total. Of these immigrants, 28% arrived in the last 5 years, higher than the OECD average of 22%. Authorities are adapting policies to aid immigrant integration, offering services and language support for their smooth settlement.
Russian population in Finland
The Russian population in Finland is one of the significant foreign-born groups. Concentrated mainly in areas close to Russia, like Helsinki and southeastern parts, it's influenced by historical ties, proximity, trade, education, and job prospects. Statistics Finland reported around 77,000 Russian citizens in Finland in 2020, ranking third among foreign nationals. However, the Finnish Population Register Centre indicated around 59,000 Russian citizens living in Finland by 2021. In 2023, the number of Russians in Finland amounts to 87,552 people, which is 1.58% of the total population.
Population history Sweden vs Finland
Sweden and Finland exhibit distinct demographic profiles. Sweden, with a population exceeding 10.4 million, surpasses Finland's population of about 5.5 million. Both nations have witnessed gradual population growth, driven by high birth rates and immigration. In terms of urbanization, over 87% of Swedes and nearly 85% of Finns reside in urban areas. Ethnically, Sweden is predominantly inhabited by Swedes, while Finland is home to a majority of Finns, with smaller communities like Swedes and Russians. Historically, Sweden boasts a longer independent statehood compared to Finland, which experienced periods of colonization and foreign rule.
