Population and demographic structure

Viimsi municipality, presents a unique and notably positive demographic profile that stands out from many other municipalities in Estonia. Its proximity to the capital city and its attractive coastal location significantly influences its population dynamics and structure.

As of the latest available data, the population of Viimsi municipality is 22,899 inhabitants. Unlike many areas in Estonia, Viimsi has experienced substantial population growth in recent years, making it one of the fastest-growing municipalities in the country.

The municipality’s demographic composition supports economic activity, with a Total Dependency Ratio (TDR) of 72.7%.

Economy

The evolution of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in Viimsi municipality demonstrates exceptionally strong growth patterns, characteristic of Estonia’s most successful suburban municipalities. During the 2020 pandemic period, Viimsi showed remarkable resilience with a GDP decline of only -1.9%, significantly outperforming the national average of -3%, indicating robust economic foundations and high adaptability.

The Gross Disposable Income (GDI) reveals consistently high levels, among the highest in Estonia outside Tallinn proper. As of 2024, the GDI per inhabitant is positioning it as one of the wealthiest municipalities in Estonia.

GDP value of the Harju County (including Tallinn):

• GDP: €24 billion
• Population: 638,076
• GDP per capita: €37,610

Using social security affiliations as an estimate of municipal employment, Viimsi shows very positive employment dynamics. The municipality has a low unemployment rate of 2.83%, with 647 registered unemployed persons out of its working-age population of 12,404. This favourable rate reflects:

• Strong integration with Tallinn’s labour market
• High-quality local employment opportunities
• Significant professional and managerial workforce
• Growing local business environment

The economic structure of Viimsi shows a distinctive modern suburban distribution:

• Primary sector represents minimal share at about 1% of employment
• Secondary sector accounts for approximately 25% of employment
• Tertiary sector dominates with approximately 74% of employment, emphasizing knowledge-based services

Energy resources

Viimsi Municipality stands out for its substantial energy consumption, reflecting its vibrant economy and high standard of living. With annual electricity consumption reaching 115,427 MWh, Viimsi is among the municipalities with the highest energy demand in Estonia. Heat energy production in the municipality totals 100,311 MWh annually, though renewable sources currently contribute only a small fraction of the energy mix.

Electricity consumption in Viimsi Municipality is significant, with a per capita usage of 10.7 MWh, highlighting the active energy needs of its residents and businesses. This figure surpasses the national average, reflecting the municipality’s high population density, growing urbanization, and thriving service sector.

Heat energy production in Viimsi plays a crucial role in meeting local energy demands, particularly during the cold Estonian winters. The municipality produces 100,311 MWh of heat energy annually. However, renewable sources contribute just 657 MWh to this total, indicating a heavy reliance on traditional energy sources such as natural gas and oil shale-derived electricity.

Viimsi has made modest strides toward renewable energy integration. Renewable electricity production to the grid stands at 367 MWh annually, which is less than 1% of the municipality’s total electricity consumption. Solar panel installations on private and public buildings account for most of this renewable production, while wind and other renewable sources remain underdeveloped.