Finland, located in Northern Europe, is home to an estimated 5.6 million people, making it one of the least densely populated countries in the European Union. As of June 14, 2025, data from Worldometer records the population at 5,622,996. This figure represents about 0.068% of the world’s total population, highlighting Finland’s status as a relatively small nation in terms of population size.
Despite its modest population, Finland covers a vast land area of over 338,000 square kilometers, resulting in a low population density—averaging just 18 inhabitants per square kilometer. This sparse distribution is one of Finland’s defining characteristics, especially when compared to many other European nations with far denser populations.
The low density is largely due to Finland’s geographic and environmental features. Much of the country is covered by forests, lakes, and wilderness, especially in the central and northern regions. These natural landscapes are preserved and valued, contributing to a strong national identity rooted in outdoor life and environmental consciousness. As a result, the population is concentrated in urban areas, particularly in the south, with cities like Helsinki, Espoo, Tampere, and Turku serving as major population centers.
Finland’s demographic structure also reflects its high standard of living, strong education system, and advanced healthcare, which contribute to a high quality of life despite its smaller size. The country consistently ranks among the top in global happiness and well-being indexes.
Overall, while Finland’s population may be small in global terms, its low density, clean environment, and well-organized infrastructure make it a unique and highly livable country.
