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Retiring in Iceland | Expat Exchange
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Retire in Iceland

William Russell
William Russell
William Russell
William Russell

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Mar 03, 2024

Summary: Retirees are often attracted to Iceland for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and unique lifestyle. Iceland is known for its dramatic landscapes, including glaciers, geysers, and volcanoes, as well as its vibrant cities and towns. The country also offers a wide range of outdoor activities, from skiing and snowmobiling to whale watching and horseback riding. Additionally, Iceland is known for its low crime rate and excellent healthcare system. The weather in Iceland is generally cool, with temperatures ranging from 32-50 degrees Fahrenheit (0-10 degrees Celsius) in the summer and 20-35 degrees Fahrenheit (-6 to 2 degrees Celsius) in the winter.

What is it like to retire in Iceland?

"Retirees in Iceland and its surroundings enjoy a high quality of life. The country is known for its stunning natural beauty, with glaciers, volcanoes, and hot springs, and retirees can take advantage of the many outdoor activities available, such as hiking, fishing, and skiing. There is also an active expat community, with many retirees from other countries living in Iceland. Cultural attractions abound, from museums and galleries to music and theater performances. There is also plenty of recreation to be had, from golf courses to swimming pools. For those looking for nightlife, there are plenty of bars and restaurants to explore," remarked one retiree in Iceland.

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What are the most challenging aspects of retiring in Iceland?

"One of the most challenging aspects of retiring in Iceland is the cost of living, which is significantly higher than in many other countries. Additionally, the climate can be harsh and the winters long, making it difficult to adjust to the cold weather. Furthermore, the language barrier can be a challenge for those who do not speak Icelandic, as the majority of the population speaks the language. Finally, the limited availability of healthcare services can be a concern for retirees, as the country does not have a comprehensive public healthcare system," said a person in Iceland.

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What are the most rewarding aspects of retiring in Iceland?

"One of the most rewarding aspects of retiring in Iceland is the opportunity to experience the country's stunning natural beauty. From the majestic glaciers and volcanoes to the rugged coastline and geothermal hot springs, Iceland offers a wealth of outdoor activities to explore. Additionally, Iceland is known for its vibrant culture and rich history, making it an ideal place to retire and enjoy a slower pace of life. The country also boasts a high quality of life, with excellent healthcare and a strong social safety net. Finally, Iceland is a safe and welcoming place to live, with a low crime rate and a friendly, welcoming population," remarked one retiree in Iceland.

What are healthcare services like in Iceland?

We asked retirees if they have access to good medical care in Iceland. They wrote:

"Iceland has a comprehensive healthcare system that provides universal access to medical services. All citizens and legal residents of Iceland are entitled to free healthcare, including hospital care, specialist care, and preventive care. The healthcare system is funded by taxes and is managed by the Icelandic Directorate of Health. Primary care is provided by general practitioners, while specialist care is provided by hospitals and specialist clinics. Iceland also has a number of private healthcare providers, which offer services such as dental care, optometry, and physiotherapy. The country also has a number of health promotion initiatives, such as health education campaigns and health screenings," said one retiree in Iceland.

How do I meet people in Iceland?

When we asked people living in Iceland about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Expats in Iceland often join clubs and activities such as sports teams, language classes, and cultural events. Expats can also meet people by attending local festivals, joining meetup groups, or attending events hosted by the Icelandic-American Association. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups to connect with other expats living in Iceland," said a person in Iceland.

What is life like in Iceland?

When we asked people living in Iceland what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Iceland can be quite rewarding. The country is known for its stunning natural beauty, with glaciers, volcanoes, and hot springs, as well as its vibrant culture and friendly people. Expats and digital nomads can take advantage of the country's excellent infrastructure, with reliable internet access and a wide range of services and amenities. The cost of living is relatively high, but the quality of life is generally good. Expats and digital nomads can also benefit from Iceland's generous visa policies, which make it easy to stay in the country for extended periods of time," said one retiree in living in Iceland.

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What do I need to know before retiring in Iceland?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Iceland, they said:

"Before retiring in Iceland, expats should be aware of the cost of living, which is higher than in many other countries. They should also be aware of the weather, which can be cold and unpredictable. Additionally, expats should research the healthcare system and the availability of medical services. It is also important to research the local culture and customs, as well as the language, to ensure a smooth transition. Finally, expats should be aware of the visa and residency requirements for living in Iceland," said one retiree in Iceland.

What type of recreational activities are there in Iceland?

"Iceland offers a variety of recreational facilities for its residents to enjoy. Popular activities include hiking, camping, fishing, and horseback riding. There are also many opportunities for bird watching, whale watching, and other wildlife viewing. For those looking for a more leisurely activity, there are plenty of hot springs, geothermal pools, and spas to relax in. Iceland also has a vibrant nightlife, with many bars, clubs, and restaurants to explore. Additionally, there are numerous museums, galleries, and cultural centers to visit," remarked one retiree in Iceland.

Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Iceland?

"People living in Iceland typically buy groceries and do other shopping at supermarkets, convenience stores, and specialty stores. Many people also shop online for groceries and other items. Additionally, there are farmers' markets and flea markets where people can buy fresh produce and other items," remarked one retiree in Iceland.

About the Author

Joshua Wood 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.

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William Russell
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