Number of homeless people rises in Espoo

The number of homeless people increased in Espoo in 2025, according to a homelessness survey conducted by the Centre for State-Subsidised Housing Construction (Varken).

There were 447 homeless people who live alone in Espoo in 2025 and the number increased by 43 people compared to the previous year, said the City of Espoo in a press release on Monday referring to the survey.

Homelessness also increased among families with children in Espoo in 2025.

According to the survey, there were 14 homeless families with children in Espoo. The number rose by a few families compared to the previous year

Prolonged and repeated long-term homelessness of more than one year has remained at the same level as before. There are now 114 people who are long-term homeless.

Homelessness has increased in all recorded groups: women, young people under the age of 25, and groups with a foreign background.

A large share of the homeless in Espoo foremost stay temporarily with friends and relatives due to a lack of housing.

“Homelessness, and the threat of becoming homeless have become increasingly visible in client work,” said Tapio Nieminen, Director of Adult Social Services in the Western Uusimaa Wellbeing Services County.

Nieminen said that Kela-provided benefits do not always provide sufficient relief for housing problems.

This is reflected as a growing need for financial support from the wellbeing services county, social guidance in financial and housing matters, or subsidised housing and temporary and emergency housing services, the Director added.

“The poor employment and economic situation and the simultaneous cuts in the benefits system have increased homelessness. The City of Espoo strives to reduce homelessness by offering housing advice, but not all people in need of housing are able to find a sufficiently affordable apartment and not all evictions can be prevented,” said Anne Savolainen, Housing Manager for the City of Espoo.