Kuhmoinen
Second homes outnumber permanent residences—2,000 residents in lake-fragmented landscape where seasonal economy complicates year-round service provision amid ongoing population decline.
Kuhmoinen municipality occupies central Finnish lake district between Jyväskylä and Lahti—2,000 residents across territory where lakes fragment landscape into peninsula and island settlement patterns. This geography historically limited transportation; modern roads enable commuting while preserving scenic character.
The municipality attracts nature tourism and cottage ownership; second homes outnumber permanent residences in some areas. This seasonal economy creates service sector employment while complicating year-round provision. Grocery stores, healthcare access, and school viability depend on resident population that summer visitors cannot sustain.
Forestry and agriculture employ shrinking workforces as mechanization continues. Young people leave for education and employment; returnees are rare. The municipality's future depends on maintaining livability for aging population while attracting remote workers or retirees seeking natural settings.
Kuhmoinen demonstrates Finnish rural pattern at extreme: beautiful landscape, sparse population, limited economic activity, uncertain long-term viability. Such municipalities may persist for decades or consolidate into larger units; outcomes depend on policy choices beyond local control.