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Expat Exchange - Cost of Living in Hafnarfjordur 2024
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Cost of Living in Hafnarfjordur

By Betsy Burlingame

SJB Global
SJB Global

Summary: Understanding the the cost of living in Hafnarfjordur helps a newcomer what to expect when it comes to apartment or house hunting, grocery shopping, transportation, dining out, utilities and more.

Category Cost
Apartment Rentals
  • 1-bedroom apartment in city center: 150,000 - 200,000 ISK per month
  • 1-bedroom apartment outside city center: 120,000 - 160,000 ISK per month
  • 3-bedroom apartment in city center: 250,000 - 350,000 ISK per month
  • 3-bedroom apartment outside city center: 200,000 - 300,000 ISK per month
Apartment Purchases
  • Price per square meter in city center: 450,000 - 600,000 ISK
  • Price per square meter outside city center: 350,000 - 500,000 ISK
Transportation
  • One-way local transport ticket: 460 ISK
  • Monthly public transport pass: 11,500 ISK
  • Gasoline (1 liter): 220 - 240 ISK
  • Taxi starting tariff: 690 ISK
  • Taxi 1 km (normal tariff): 280 ISK
Groceries
  • Milk (1 liter): 130 - 160 ISK
  • Bread (500g): 300 - 450 ISK
  • Rice (1 kg): 200 - 300 ISK
  • Eggs (12): 500 - 700 ISK
  • Chicken breasts (1 kg): 1,500 - 2,500 ISK
  • Apples (1 kg): 300 - 500 ISK
  • Tomatoes (1 kg): 400 - 600 ISK
  • Water (1.5-liter bottle): 150 - 250 ISK
Restaurants
  • Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: 2,000 - 3,000 ISK
  • Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant: 8,000 - 15,000 ISK
  • Fast food meal (e.g., McDonald's): 1,500 - 2,000 ISK
  • Domestic beer (0.5-liter draught): 1,000 - 1,500 ISK
  • Imported beer (0.33-liter bottle): 1,000 - 1,500 ISK
  • Cappuccino: 500 - 700 ISK
Utilities
  • Basic utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) for 85m2 apartment: 10,000 - 20,000 ISK per month
  • Internet (60 Mbps or more, unlimited data, cable/ADSL): 6,000 - 9,000 ISK per month
Private School Tuition
  • Preschool: 80,000 - 120,000 ISK per month
  • Elementary School: 100,000 - 150,000 ISK per month
  • Middle School: 120,000 - 180,000 ISK per month
  • High School: 150,000 - 250,000 ISK per month
Please note that these costs are approximate and can vary depending on various factors such as location, time of year, and individual preferences. It is always a good idea to research and compare prices before making any decisions.

Monthly Budget for Retirees in Hafnarfjordur

"The cost of living in Hafnarfjordur is considered relatively high compared to many other countries. Housing is one of the biggest expenses, with rental prices for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center being quite steep. Utilities such as electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage are also quite expensive, as is the cost of internet connection.When it comes to groceries, prices are also high. Basic items such as bread, milk, and eggs, as well as fruits, vegetables, and meat, are more expensive than in many other countries. Eating out or ordering takeout from restaurants can also be quite costly.Transportation costs are also significant in Hafnarfjordur. Gasoline prices are high, and so are the costs of maintaining and insuring a car. Public transportation is available, but it is also more expensive than in many other places.Healthcare in Iceland is of high quality, but it comes at a high cost. Even with the national health insurance, there can be significant out-of-pocket expenses for certain services or medications.Despite the high cost of living, many residents feel that the quality of life, safety, and natural beauty of Hafnarfjordur and Iceland in general make it worth the expense," said one expat living in Hafnarfjordur.

Can I live in Hafnarfjordur on $1,500 a month?

"I've been living in Hafnarfjordur for a while now, and I can tell you that it's possible to live on $1,500 a month, but you'll have to make some sacrifices. The cost of living in Iceland is quite high, especially when it comes to housing and groceries. To make it work, you'll need to find a more affordable neighborhood and be mindful of your spending.First, let's talk about housing. The more affordable neighborhoods in Hafnarfjordur are usually further away from the city center. You might want to consider areas like Ásland, Hvaleyrarholt, or Víðistaðatún. These neighborhoods have lower rental prices compared to the more expensive areas like Miðborg, Hellisgerði, or Strandgata. Keep in mind that you'll probably need to share an apartment or rent a small studio to stay within your budget.Next, you'll need to be careful with your grocery spending. Groceries in Iceland can be quite expensive, so you'll want to shop at more budget-friendly stores like Bónus or Krónan. Cooking at home and meal planning will also help you save money. Eating out can be costly, so try to limit that as much as possible.Transportation is another expense to consider. If you can, try to walk or bike to work to save on transportation costs. If that's not possible, you can use the public transportation system, Strætó, which is relatively affordable. Just make sure to get a monthly pass to save on costs.Lastly, you'll need to be mindful of your entertainment and leisure expenses. Going out for drinks or attending events can add up quickly. Try to find free or low-cost activities to do in your spare time, like exploring the beautiful nature around Hafnarfjordur or attending community events.In conclusion, living comfortably on $1,500 a month in Hafnarfjordur is possible, but you'll need to make some sacrifices and be mindful of your spending. By choosing a more affordable neighborhood, being careful with your grocery and transportation expenses, and finding low-cost entertainment options, you can make it work," commented an expat living in Hafnarfjordur.

Can I live in Hafnarfjordur on $3,500 a month?

"I've been living in Hafnarfjordur for a while now, and I can tell you that it's possible to live comfortably on $3,000 a month, but you'll have to make some sacrifices. The cost of living in Iceland is quite high, especially when it comes to housing and groceries. To make it work, I'd recommend looking for an apartment in a more affordable neighborhood, like Ásland or Hvaleyrarholt. These areas are a bit further from the city center, but you can still find some nice apartments for a reasonable price. I'd avoid the more expensive neighborhoods like Hellisgerdi and Strandgotu, as the rent there can be quite steep.When it comes to groceries, I've found that shopping at the discount supermarkets like Bónus or Krónan can save you a lot of money. The selection might not be as extensive as in the more expensive supermarkets, but you can still find most of the essentials. Eating out can also be quite pricey, so I'd recommend cooking at home as much as possible.Another thing to consider is transportation. Owning a car in Iceland can be expensive due to high gas prices and maintenance costs. I've found that using public transportation or even biking can be a more affordable option. Hafnarfjordur has a decent bus system, and Reykjavik is just a short bus ride away if you need to go there for work or leisure.As for entertainment and leisure activities, there are plenty of affordable options in Hafnarfjordur. There are beautiful parks and nature areas to explore, like the Hafnarfjordur Lava Park, which is free to visit. The local swimming pool, Sundhöll Hafnarfjardar, is also quite affordable and a great way to relax and socialize with locals.In conclusion, living comfortably on $3,000 a month in Hafnarfjordur is possible, but you'll have to be mindful of your spending and make some sacrifices. By choosing a more affordable neighborhood, shopping smart for groceries, and utilizing public transportation, you can make it work and enjoy your time in this beautiful Icelandic town," said one expat living in Hafnarfjordur.

Can I live in Hafnarfjordur on $5,000 a month?

"I've been living in Hafnarfjordur for a while now, and I can tell you that it's definitely possible to live comfortably on $5,000 a month, especially if you're used to modern amenities. However, there are some sacrifices you might have to make to ensure you stay within your budget.Firstly, housing can be quite expensive in Hafnarfjordur, especially in the more popular neighborhoods like the town center or near the harbor. To save on rent, I'd recommend looking for an apartment in more affordable areas like Ásland or Hvaleyrarholt. These neighborhoods are still close to the town center and have good public transportation options, but the rent is generally lower.Another thing to consider is the cost of groceries and dining out. Iceland is known for its high food prices, so you might have to adjust your eating habits a bit. I've found that shopping at discount grocery stores like Bónus or Krónan can help save a lot of money. Additionally, cooking at home more often and limiting dining out to special occasions can also help you stay within your budget.Transportation is another expense to consider. Owning a car in Iceland can be quite costly due to high gas prices and maintenance costs. I'd recommend using public transportation, which is quite reliable and affordable in Hafnarfjordur. If you do need a car occasionally, consider using a car-sharing service or renting a car for short periods.Lastly, you might have to cut back on some leisure activities and entertainment. Going out for drinks or attending events can be quite expensive in Iceland. Instead, try to find free or low-cost activities like hiking, visiting local parks, or attending community events.Overall, living in Hafnarfjordur on $5,000 a month is doable, but it requires some adjustments and careful budgeting. By choosing a more affordable neighborhood, being mindful of your spending on food and transportation, and finding low-cost leisure activities, you can enjoy a comfortable life in this beautiful town," commented an expat living in Hafnarfjordur.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.


SJB Global
SJB Global

SJB Global
SJB Global

SJB Global
SJB Global

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
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SJB GlobalSJB Global

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
Learn More

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