Joensuu set to overtake Pori as Finland’s tenth-largest city

Joensuu is on track to surpass Pori and become Finland’s tenth-largest city by population, according to projections reported by Finnish public broadcaster Yle. The shift, driven by steady growth in Joensuu and stagnation in Pori, could occur as early as 2032.

Joensuu’s population has been rising by hundreds each year, reaching 79,129 at the end of 2024, while Pori’s population has declined to 83,010. The gap between the two cities now stands at just over 3,000 residents. Mayor Jere Penttilä of Joensuu highlighted the significance of entering the top ten, stating that it would boost the city’s visibility in national comparisons.

Immigration and educational institutions—such as the University of Eastern Finland, Karelia University of Applied Sciences, and Riveria Vocational College—have fueled Joensuu’s growth by attracting students from abroad. Penttilä expressed confidence in the city’s continued expansion, acknowledging Pori’s energy sector projects as strong competition but emphasizing Joensuu’s own strengths.

Regional development expert Timo Aro estimates that, if current trends persist, Joensuu will overtake Pori around 2032 or 2033. He noted that such a shift would be a bitter moment for Pori, which has seen slower growth.

Joensuu recently surpassed Kouvola in 2024, becoming Finland’s 11th-largest city. Residents like 90-year-old Kalevi Hämäläinen have embraced the rivalry, playfully declaring, “We’ll beat those Pori devils.”