Helsinki public transport safety concerns are shaping how people move across the city, according to a recent survey that highlights a clear shift in confidence, especially during evening and night travel.
A new study commissioned by Helsinki and Espoo shows that 41 percent of residents have experienced safety-related concerns while using buses, trains, or the metro. The survey gathered responses from over 1,000 people in the region and points to a pattern that goes beyond isolated incidents.
For many, the concern is not about one specific event. It is about repeated discomfort that builds over time and eventually affects travel decisions.
Some residents reported avoiding commuter trains entirely. Others said they now prefer private cars, even when public transport would normally be the more practical option. That shift is important because it directly affects how sustainable mobility goals perform in real life.
The data shows a clear difference between groups. Women reported higher levels of concern, with 43 percent saying they had experienced safety issues. Among men, the figure stood at 30 percent.
Time of day also plays a major role. Evening and night travel stood out as the most sensitive periods. Fewer passengers, reduced visibility, and limited staff presence all contribute to a stronger sense of vulnerability.
Respondents consistently pointed to similar issues across the transport network. The most common concerns included disruptive behaviour in vehicles and at stations, as well as groups perceived as intimidating in public spaces.
Station conditions also came up frequently. Poor lighting, unclean environments, and worn-down infrastructure were described as factors that increase discomfort, especially in commuter rail stations.
These are not abstract complaints. They shape how people interpret safety in everyday travel situations.
Sasu Nuokkola, a specialist at the City of Espoo, noted that behaviour is influenced even when no actual incident has occurred.
“The feeling of insecurity affects people’s mobility choices even when there is no personal experience of danger,” he said.
This distinction is important. Public transport systems do not only function on physical safety. They also rely on how safe people feel while using them.
One of the strongest themes in the survey was the demand for more staff presence. Many respondents said they would feel safer with more personnel on platforms and inside vehicles.
However, opinions were divided on security guards. Some passengers said guards improved order and comfort. Others felt their presence created tension rather than reassurance.
This split suggests there is no single solution that works universally across all users.
The survey also highlighted concerns outside trains and buses. Pedestrians raised issues about fast-moving traffic near crossings, along with conflicts involving cyclists and electric scooters.
Winter conditions were another recurring problem. Ice, snow buildup, and poorly maintained walkways were frequently mentioned as hazards that affect daily movement across the city.
These findings show that transport safety in Helsinki is not limited to vehicles. It extends into the entire urban environment.
The study is part of the EU-funded SOLMU project, which focuses on developing sustainable mobility solutions in the Helsinki region. While the goal is to encourage public transport use, the survey suggests that trust and comfort remain key barriers.
Improving infrastructure and visibility may be just as important as expanding services if the city wants to keep people on public transport.
