Ylivieska - Finland

Ylivieska: A Finnish Haven with Room for Growth Nestled in the heart of Northern Ostrobothnia, Finland, Ylivieska emerges as a vibrant town and municipality renowned for its strategic location and robust community dynamics. With an administrative role at the helm of Kalajokilaakso and Pyhäjokilaakso regions, it serves approximately 90,000 inhabitants, making it a pivotal commercial center in Oulu South. The unilingual Finnish environment further enriches its cultural tapestry. Strengths: A Balanced Urban Lifestyle Ylivieska shines with an amenities score of B, showcasing a variety of facilities that enhance urban living. Residents enjoy well-rounded access to essential services and conveniences that contribute positively to their quality of life. Despite challenges in certain areas, the town's culture and entertainment score of B- reflects a modest but growing cultural scene, supported by local events and community initiatives. The municipality takes pride in its sustainable urban planning, which plays a significant role in maintaining an overall livability index close to B-. The city's approach to housing and urban development emphasizes land use policies that strive for balance between residential needs and environmental conservation. This is evident in the ongoing efforts toward urban redevelopment projects aimed at enhancing infrastructure and community spaces. Challenges: Areas for Continued Development Ylivieska faces certain challenges, particularly with a commute score of C+ and childcare and education score of C+. The public transit services are still evolving to meet growing demands efficiently. However, initiatives like expanding the network of tram stops and improving local transport systems show promise in addressing these concerns. The NIMBY (Not In My Backyard) score of B suggests some resistance towards new developments, a common issue that cities face as they grow. Efforts are being made to engage communities through transparent urban planning processes to mitigate this challenge. Similarly, the noise score of B indicates room for improvement in sound management across residential and commercial zones. Transportation & Accessibility: A Path Forward The public transport system is crucial for improving Ylivieska's commute score. With plans to enhance public transit services and introduce more sustainable urban planning initiatives, the municipality aims to make commuting smoother and more accessible. This includes exploring options like a city-wide transport pass to encourage the use of eco-friendly modes of transportation. Health & Community: Prioritizing Well-being With a health score of B-, Ylivieska is committed to improving access to healthcare facilities and services, ensuring that residents enjoy a high standard of medical care. The focus on health-related quality of life includes promoting wellness programs and community health initiatives that aim to support both physical and mental well-being. Conclusion: A Promising Future Ylivieska stands as a testament to the potential within Finnish municipalities to balance growth with livability. While it faces challenges in areas like transportation and education, its commitment to sustainable urban development and community engagement positions it well for future improvements. As Ylivieska continues to refine its land use policies and transport infrastructure, there is significant potential for this city to climb higher in the global livability rankings. In summary, Ylivieska's blend of strategic location, cultural vitality, and progressive planning makes it an appealing destination with a promising outlook for enhanced quality of life.

The second oldest concrete bridge in Finland, built in 1912 and named humorously as Savisilta ("clay bridge") is located in Ylivieska.

Ylivieska

Country: Finland

Population: 15369

Area: 574.2 square kilometre

Web: https://www.ylivieska.fi/

Town manager: Maria Sorvisto

Overall score

Total

B-

Amenities

Childcare & Education

C+

Commute

C+

Culture & Entertainment

B-

Health

B-

NIMBY

Noise