My Espoo survey results confirm that Espoo residents value nature and a pleasant living environment
In last autumn’s My Espoo survey we asked residents about their views on Espoo and its future. The results show that Espoo residents particularly appreciate their city’s closeness to nature, safety, and overall pleasantness.
Espoo brings to mind nature and home
When thinking of Espoo, the first things that come to mind are nature, greenery and forests. This was the response of nearly one third (32%) of respondents. Around one fifth of respondents primarily see Espoo as their home (19%) and a maritime city (18%). 11% of respondents emphasise its pleasantness and beauty.
Construction, services and public transport need development
Residents identified construction as the most important area for development, though slightly less frequently than in the survey conducted four years ago. According to respondents, the city should do a better job of considering nature and green spaces in construction. They would also like the city to improve its cycling infrastructure and make the city more pleasant and visually appealing.
Other development priorities mentioned by respondents include services, public transport, sports and recreational opportunities, and elderly services. Residents also want the city to ensure sufficient resources for schools and day care centres.
School-aged respondents particularly emphasised the importance of sports facilities, schools and shopping centres.
Future Espoo envisioned as a safe and nature-friendly city
Future visions vary across different age groups. Young people value pleasant and clean surroundings, residents aged 35–44 highlight nature and safety, and those aged over 65 emphasise the functionality of services.
Overall, residents see future Espoo as a green and nature-friendly city. Forests, natural parks, safety and reliability are highlighted as important features of the future city.
Espoo is worth moving to
Respondents would recommend Espoo as a place to live. The Net Promoter Score (NPS) remains relatively high at +24, though it has declined from the previous survey in 2020 (NPS +31). Espoo is particularly recommended by over 65-year-olds (NPS +31) and by English-speaking respondents.
Criticism is mainly directed at the uncontrolled growth of the city, construction and planning solutions, and housing costs. Those who would recommend the city, on the other hand, highlight the accessibility of services, the closeness of nature, and the city’s peacefulness. Among these people, 45% consider the proximity of services as the most important reason for recommending the city.
My Espoo survey results impact city strategy
The results of the My Espoo survey serve as the most important dataset reflecting residents’ views in the preparation of the city’s new strategy, known as the Espoo Story. The new City Council will be elected in April and is expected to decide on the new Espoo Story in September–October 2025.