Authors

• Muilu, Toivo (University of Oulu)
• Mäntysalo, Raine (Aalto University)
• Vihinen, Hilkka (Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke))

Keywords

commuting, countryside, housing, neighbourhoods, public transport, regional planning, residential areas, urban environment

Abstract

The survey study charted housing preferences of residents in rural-urban fringe areas of the Finnish towns Kajaani, Oulu, Seinäjoki and Tampere. The study is part of the Academy of Finland's "Future of Living and Housing" (ASU-LIVE) research programme, and the Academy has also funded the study.

The first questions examined the respondents' current household composition and type of accommodation, possible holiday home, and whether they have had control over the build materials, plumbing and heating in their accommodation. More detailed questions were asked about the type of heating in the accommodation as well as energy efficiency. Respondents were asked to assess their residential area in terms of overall satisfaction, personal safety, traffic safety, street lighting, peacefulness, closeness to nature, reputation, construction density, and public transport. It was also enquired whether new buildings in the residential area fit in with older buildings and the landscape, as well as whether new housing had made the residential area better in terms of services and public transport, for example.

Next, the respondents' work commute distance and duration were charted as well as the mode of transportation to work. Perceived distance and the chosen mode of transportation from home to different types of services was also examined. Satisfaction with traffic infrastructure was examined with questions regarding, for instance, whether it is necessary to own a car in the residential area and whether roads as well as pedestrian and bicycle paths are in good condition. The respondents' rationale for choosing their current residential area was examined extensively with different types of questions and attitudinal statements. They were also asked about the type of residential area that they would live in if they could choose freely. Finally, views on urban and rural life and identity were charted.

Background variables included gender, age, household composition, type of accommodation, education, and economic activity.