Moving to Iceland
Last updated on Feb 08, 2024
Summary: Many expats and digital nomads move to Iceland for its stunning natural beauty, its vibrant culture, and its high quality of life. Additionally, Iceland is known for its low crime rate, excellent healthcare system, and strong economy. People looking for a place to live in Iceland can find a variety of rental options, from apartments to houses. The most popular cities for expats and digital nomads in Iceland are Reykjavik, Akureyri, and Hafnarfjörður.
What do I need to know before moving to Iceland?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Iceland, they said:
"Iceland is a beautiful and unique country with a lot to offer, but there are a few things expats should be aware of before moving there. The weather in Iceland can be unpredictable, so it is important to be prepared for all kinds of weather conditions. Additionally, Iceland is an expensive country, so expats should be prepared to budget accordingly. It is also important to note that the language spoken in Iceland is Icelandic, so it is beneficial to learn some of the language before moving. Finally, Iceland is a very safe country, but it is still important to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions," commented one expat who made the move to Iceland.
How do I find a place to live in Iceland?
We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Iceland is to use online resources such as websites and social media. Websites such as Leigulistinn, Bylgjan, and Airbnb are great resources for finding apartments, houses, and other rental properties. Additionally, social media sites such as Facebook and Instagram can be used to search for rental properties and connect with potential landlords. Additionally, it is possible to find rental properties through local newspapers and real estate agents," commented one expat who made the move to Iceland.
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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Iceland?
"Expat homes and apartments in Iceland tend to be modern and comfortable, with plenty of natural light and often spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. Many expat homes and apartments come with amenities such as a fully-equipped kitchen, a washing machine, and a dryer. Expats can also expect to find a variety of modern furniture, as well as access to high-speed internet and cable television. Expat homes and apartments in Iceland are typically well-insulated and heated, making them comfortable and cozy even during the coldest winter months," remarked one expat who made the move to Iceland.
What is the average cost of housing in Iceland?
If you are thinking about moving to Iceland, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"The cost of housing in Iceland is generally quite high, with the average price of a one-bedroom apartment in Reykjavik being around €1,500 per month. Prices for larger apartments and houses can be significantly higher, depending on the location and size," said one expat in Iceland.
Should I buy or rent a home in Iceland?
If you have not spent a lot of time in Iceland, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:
"Buying a home in Iceland can be a great investment, as the country's real estate market is growing steadily. However, it is important to consider the cost of living in Iceland, as well as the cost of purchasing a home, before making a decision. Renting a home in Iceland can be a great option for those who are not ready to commit to a long-term purchase, as it allows for more flexibility and can be more cost-effective in the short-term. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Iceland should be based on individual needs and preferences," said one expat in Iceland.
What should I pack when moving to Iceland?
We asked people living in Iceland to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:
"When moving to Iceland, it is important to pack warm and waterproof clothing, as the weather can be unpredictable. A good pair of walking boots is also essential, as Iceland is known for its rugged terrain. It is also a good idea to bring a good supply of sunscreen, as the sun is very strong in Iceland. Additionally, it is important to bring a good supply of medication, as some medications may not be available in Iceland. Finally, it is important to bring a good supply of cash, as some places may not accept credit cards," commented one expat who made the move to Iceland.
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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Iceland?
We asked people in Iceland if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:
"It is important to be mindful of cultural differences when visiting Iceland. It is considered rude to be late for appointments or social engagements, so it is important to be punctual. It is also important to respect the Icelandic language and not to speak loudly in public. Additionally, it is important to respect the Icelandic nature and not to litter or leave any trace of your presence. It is also important to respect the privacy of others and not to take pictures of people without their permission. Finally, it is important to dress appropriately and not to wear revealing clothing in public," explained one expat living in Iceland.
Why do people move to Iceland?
When we asked people why foreigners move to Iceland, they responded:
"Iceland is an attractive destination for expats due to its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and excellent quality of life. The country is known for its breathtaking landscapes, including glaciers, volcanoes, geysers, and hot springs. Iceland also offers a safe and secure environment, with a low crime rate and a high standard of living. Additionally, the country has a strong economy and a high level of economic freedom, making it an attractive place to live and work. Finally, Iceland is a great place to learn a new language, as English is widely spoken and the country has a rich cultural heritage," wrote one expat living in Iceland.
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How are healthcare services Iceland?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Iceland, they replied:
"Healthcare services in Iceland are provided by the public healthcare system, which is funded by the government and managed by the Icelandic Directorate of Health. The public healthcare system provides a wide range of services, including primary care, hospital care, mental health services, and preventive health services. The quality of public healthcare in Iceland is generally high, with a focus on preventive care and access to specialist services. Foreign residents in Iceland have access to the public healthcare system, although they may need to pay a fee for some services. Expats in Iceland can use the public healthcare system by registering with the Icelandic Directorate of Health and paying a fee for services," remarked one expat in Iceland.
What are medical services in Iceland like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Iceland, they replied:
"Iceland has a comprehensive healthcare system that provides high quality medical services to its citizens. The country has a universal healthcare system that is funded by taxes and provides free healthcare to all citizens. Medical services in Iceland are provided by both public and private hospitals and clinics, and the country has a well-developed network of primary care physicians. Iceland also has a number of specialized medical centers that provide specialized care for a variety of conditions. In addition, Iceland has a number of medical research centers that are dedicated to researching and developing new treatments and technologies," replied one expat when asked about moving to Iceland.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
- How do I meet people in Iceland?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- Is there a lot of crime in Iceland?
- What do I need to know before retiring in Iceland?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Iceland accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Iceland like?
- Is the cost of living in Iceland high?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Iceland?
- What are healthcare services like in Iceland?
- Is the cost of living in Iceland high?
- What type of recreational facilities are in Iceland?
- What is the weather like in Iceland?
- Are there good restaurants in Iceland?
- Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Iceland?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Iceland?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Iceland?
- What do I need to know when buying property in Iceland?
- Are foreigners allowed to own property in Iceland?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?