![Image of Húsavík](https://expatcoffee-aws-s3-images-bucket.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/medium_Husavik_0349862db2.jpg)
Nestled on the northern coast of Iceland, Húsavík is a picturesque fishing town that's long been a hub for whale watching and marine life activities. With its breathtaking scenery that includes fjords, mountains, and geothermal features, it's an outdoor enthusiast's paradise that offers endless opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and hot spring relaxation.
Tips for expats in Húsavík
Visa requirements
Citizens of the European Union, the European Economic Area, and Switzerland do not require a visa to live and work in Iceland. Other citizens will need to apply for a work or residence permit through the Icelandic Directorate of Labour.
Language resources
While many Icelandic people—including those in Húsavík—speak English, it's still highly recommended that expats take advantage of local language courses in order to better connect with the community and navigate day-to-day life in Iceland.
Cost of living for expats in Húsavík
Housing
The cost of housing in Húsavík can vary widely depending on location and type of accommodation. Expect to pay around ISK 200,000 (approx. USD 1,500) per month for a shared house or small one-bedroom apartment, while a larger two-bedroom apartment or house can cost between ISK 320,000 (approx. USD 2,300) and ISK 500,000 (approx. USD 3,600) per month.
Groceries
As a coastal town with a thriving fishing industry, Húsavík offers a wide range of fresh seafood and local produce at moderate prices. A basic monthly food budget for a single person could range from around ISK 80,000 (approx. USD 580) to ISK 150,000 (approx. USD 1,050), depending on dietary preferences and cooking skills.
Transportation
Getting around Húsavík and the surrounding area is relatively inexpensive thanks to the town's small size and good public transportation network. Running a car may cost around ISK 300,000 (approx. USD 2,100) per year, while regular bus services cost around ISK 25,000 (approx. USD 180) per month.
Climate in Húsavík
Húsavík has a subarctic climate with long, cold winter nights and mild summers marked by 24-hour daylight. Temperatures typically range from -3°C (27°F) to 10°C (50°F) in winter and 5°C (41°F) to 15°C (59°F) in summer.
Job market in Húsavík
With its proximity to some of Iceland's most stunning natural landscapes, Húsavík's economy has traditionally revolved around fishing, tourism, and related industries such as boat manufacturing and food processing. There are a range of job opportunities in these fields, as well as in healthcare, retail, and the growing technology sector.
Healthcare in Húsavík
Húsavík has a modern healthcare system and partner hospital just one hour away in Akureyri. Patients in Húsavík primarily receive basic medical care from a local medical center staffed by a team of general practitioners and nurses. Specialized medical care is available in Akureyri, as well as in nearby Reykjavík.
Transport in Húsavík
Húsavík is well connected to other major towns and cities in northern Iceland via a network of paved and gravel roads. It's also served by regular bus services that connect it with Akureyri, as well as nearby towns such as Blönduós and Þórshöfn.
Safety in Húsavík
Overall, Húsavík is considered a safe and low-crime town. However, as with all rural areas, it does require exercise of general caution and sensible behavior in certain situations, such as when hiking in isolated areas or avoiding bother with excessive alcohol consumption.
Neighborhoods in Húsavík
Búðardalur
Located just a few minutes' walk from Húsavík's downtown area, Búðardalur is a relatively quiet and residential neighborhood that offers beautiful sea views, as well as easy access to the town's main amenities and attractions.
Feldspær
This new and still-developing neighborhood to the east of Húsavík's center is known for its affordable housing options and modern infrastructure, including a new school, playground, and community center.
Attractions in Húsavík
Whale Museum
Located in downtown Húsavík, this fascinating museum explores the town's history as a global center for whale watching and conservation efforts, with hands-on exhibits and interactive displays.
Geysir Geothermal Area
Just a short drive from Húsavík, this geothermal park is home to a number of unique and breathtaking geological phenomena, including geysers, hot springs, and bubbling mud pools.
International Schools in Húsavík
Húsavík International School
Located in downtown Húsavík, this K-12 school offers a rigorous and innovative curriculum that serves both local and international students, with a particular focus on language immersion and cultural exchange.