Umeå is one of Sweden's fastest growing cities. The average age of the 127 000 people who live in Umeå is 38. They intend to increase their numbers — the goal is to pass the 200 000 figure before 2050.

The city offers world-class art, drama, films, industries, music and research. It aims to attract more companies, break new construction records and, not least beeing the European Capital of Culture 2014.