Residential areas in Tampere have their own distinct character
Every two years, the city surveys the residents' lifestyles, leisure activities and experiences in their own neighbourhoods. The respondents also mark places of concern and importance on the map that the city should pay attention to.
Almost 4 000 people responded to the well-being survey in January 2025, 61% of whom were women and 34% men. The highest number of responses came from residents of Hervanta, Kaleva and Kaukajärvi. In total, respondents made approximately 15,600 map markings.
The city received positive feedback on the fully accessible digital version of the well-being survey, which was completed by 361 residents. Nearly 600 people responded on paper, most of them over 65 years of age.
– A big thank you to all respondents. The experiences shared by residents are extremely valuable to us. The results have already been used, for example, in the recently completed well-being report, says Johanna Ahlgren-Holappa, Head of Knowledge Management and Customer Experience.
Western Tampere: "The forests, beaches and parks in the area are all places where the soul rests!"
According to the results of the well-being survey, residents in Western Tampere perceive their health to be poorer than in other areas. Experiences of discrimination are also more common, although there are significant differences between neighborhoods within the area. Compared to other parts of the city, residents in the west report the lowest levels of significant psychological strain.
Traffic is a particular problem around the intersection of Porintie and Paasikiventie and on Lielahdenkatu. Disruptive behavior by individuals is a concern near the Tesoma shopping center, but also around smaller local shops. Areas perceived as untidy include Santalahti, the western end of Pispalan valtatie, and the Haapalinna area.
More than half of the cherished or important places in residents’ own neighborhoods are located in green areas or near bodies of water. For the vast majority, these places are within one kilometer of their home.
Central area: "The whole Näsikallio is gorgeous, including the Tallipiha and Finlayson Palace area!"
In many ways, the well-being of people living in the Central Area is better than average. Respondents to the survey are more likely to feel that their quality of life, financial situation and health are good than in other areas. They also perceive their neighbourhoods as pleasant and having a good reputation.
However, traffic volume and disruptive behavior by individuals are causes for concern in the area. Feelings of insecurity have increased, particularly on the west side of Hämeenkatu, in Keskustori and in Koskipuisto. Untidiness is also noted in places such as the northern end of Kuninkaankatu, the railway station area, and Tulli area.
In the city centre, cherished and important places are most often parks, meadows, forests, or paths, and they are located close to home. The area also stands out for its various meeting and gathering places as well as cultural sites, which make up one in four of the important places.
Southern Tampere: "The entire Iidesjärvi area, in its current state, brings serenity and joy to life."
Compared to other areas, residents in the south experience less physical threat and are less often subjected to violence or intimidation. However, 18 percent of respondents reported a very weak sense of inclusion. Residents in this area less frequently feel needed by others or that they can influence the course of their own lives compared to other parts of the city.
Traffic is the most significant concern in the south. Respondents expressed worries about the high volume of cars, through traffic, and intersection arrangements—particularly at the eastern end of Hallilantie.
In the south, the beaches, parks and outdoor and fitness facilities of lakes Pyhäjärvi, Iidesjärvi and Peltolammi are valued. Nature is also frequently enjoyed in areas such as Viinikanpuisto and the space between Vähäjärvi and Perkiönpuisto.
Southeastern Tampere: "On the path around Suolijärvi, you feel further away from the city than you are. What a wonderful peace!"
In the southeastern area, survey respondents reported feeling lonely and psychologically stressed more often than the citywide average. On the other hand, residents here are more active in volunteer work and more frequently feel that they can influence the development of their residential area.
Feelings of insecurity have increased especially in the Hervantakeskus area. Insecurity is also experienced near the shopping centers in Annala and Kaukajärvi. There are also places where people feel uncomfortable, such as the surroundings of Ahvenisjärvi, as well as the Isokuusi and Vuoreskeskus areas.
All of the area’s large and small lakes and their surroundings are considered important and cherished outdoor spaces by respondents. Other frequently mentioned places include Pehkusuo, Hikivuorenpuisto, the Haihara area, and Näyttämönpuisto.
Northeastern Tampere: "The surroundings of the Mannerheim’s Rock, a wonderful outdoor and play area!"
In addition to the city centre, the well-being of residents in the northeastern part of the city is above average by many measures. Respondents are satisfied with their living conditions and feel that their neighbourhood is safe and pleasant. Residents also experience less discrimination and are less likely to feel lonely than in other areas. However, there are differences between neighborhoods within the area.
Traffic is clearly the most significant concern in the northeast. Residents are particularly worried about the high volume of cars, driver behavior, and driving speeds on streets such as Messukylänkatu and Aitolahdentie. Respondents marked noticeably fewer unsafe places here than in other parts of the city.
Various green areas, as well as outdoor, fitness, sports, and recreational areas, are especially valued in the northeast. Popular locations include Jankanpuisto, Varsanpuisto, and the Halimasjärvi nature reserve, alongside Mannerheim’s Rock.
The quotes in the subheadings are direct quotes from respondents to the well-being survey.
