Living the Dream in Umeå’s Haga District

Fritz Hammarström is the returnee who found his way back to Umeå after several years in Småland and Stockholm. Now, Fritz, his wife Frida, and their children are living the dream in Haga, with proximity to both the city buzz and natural experiences. 

What made you move back to Umeå? 

We wanted a bigger place. Our small house in Enskede was nice and located in a quiet neighbourhood, but we needed more space, and housing prices in Stockholm are completely crazy. Also, daily life was so time-consuming; even a trip to IKEA became an all-day project. When our daughter was about to start school, it was good timing to move. I’m originally from here, and Frida and I met while studying psychology at Umeå University, so moving to Umeå was the obvious choice. 

Why did you choose Haga specifically? 

I grew up here and have always felt comfortable in Haga. It’s close to everything—city center, work, school, activities. It’s within walking distance to both Gammlia and the I20 forest, and both Frida and I love cross-country skiing, so it’s a real luxury. The area has a nice mix of properties—large villas, apartment buildings, new and old. It’s a quiet area, despite being so close to the city center. And the Haga park is a favorite for the whole family. 

What are the biggest differences compared to life in Stockholm? 

Time. Everything goes incredibly smooth here; it takes a maximum of ten minutes to get anywhere. Downtown is just around the corner, the kids can walk to school, and we have all everyday activities nearby. Safety is also a significant factor; while many in Stockholm are feeling the impact of rising criminality, Umeå continues to feel very safe.

You feel safe in Umeå; it’s a very good place for children to grow up.

What would you say to someone considering moving back to Umeå? 

We actually have friends who are thinking about moving here now, even though they have no previous connection to Umeå. It’s a city that offers a good range of culture, sports, restaurants, and activities, with very short travel distances to everything. You feel safe in Umeå; it’s a very good place for children to grow up. And people here are incredibly friendly; it didn’t take long to feel part of the community. 

Fritz Hammarström 

Age: 43 
Lives: Haga 
From: Umeå 
Occupation: Psychologist 
Family: Wife Frida, children Ivar and Elise 
Misses about Stockholm: The restaurant scene. The offerings in Umeå have improved a lot in recent years, but still can’t quite compare to Stockholm yet. And, of course, we miss our friends, but we have plenty of space available when they come to visit. 
Doesn't miss: Everything else. 
Best thing about Umeå: Real winter!