The city is known for its creative climate, which creates the rich cultural life that exists here - with many committed associations. The many bikes are a sign that it is close to most things, even to other people. Maybe that's why both crime and ill health are at a low level.
The rest of the world is never far away either: Umeå Airport, the Botniabanan, the new ring road and an expanded port make Umeå a northern logistics center.