Reykjavik, the capital city of Iceland, is a dynamic and modern hub for expats. Located on the stunning coastline of the Reykjanes Peninsula, it's surrounded by captivating natural landscapes such as glaciers, lava fields, and black sand beaches. Despite its remote location, the city boasts a thriving economy, an international community, and a high standard of living. In this guide, we'll provide extensive insights about Reykjavik that will pique the interest of any expat looking for a life-changing experience.
Tips for expats in Reykjavik
Visa requirements
Citizens of the European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland, or the United States need not apply for a visa or permit to join the Icelandic workforce. However, North Americans and nationals from other countries require a residence permit, work permit, and a visa, which can be challenging to obtain. Therefore, expats must apply for their work and visa permits before embarking on their journey to Iceland.
Language resources
Expats can learn Icelandic, the country's native language, through various methods like language schools, language apps, language online courses, or language exchange programs in Reykjavik, where they can connect with native speakers who can provide valuable insights into the Icelandic culture.
Cost of living for expats in Reykjavik
Housing
Expats in Reykjavik have a diverse range of housing options suited to their specific needs. A room in a shared house starts at 145,000 ISK ($1,086) per month. One-bedroom apartments range from 210,000 ISK ($1,493) to 340,000 ISK ($2,345) monthly, depending on location and amenities. Two-bedroom apartments go from 300,000 ISK ($2,102) to 550,000 ISK ($3,913) per month, while 3+ bedroom houses start at 750,000 ISK ($5,286) monthly.
Groceries
Food and grocery bills range from 100,000 ISK ($677) to 300,000 ISK ($2,102) monthly for a single adult, depending on their preference and lifestyle. Iceland has a high import tax on certain groceries like fish and vegetables, which can increase costs. However, expats can save a considerable amount of money by buying groceries from supermarkets like Bónus and Krónan, rather than eating out regularly.
Transportation
Expats have access to an extensive public transportation system and can buy a one-week card for 7,000 ISK ($48), while a student's semester ticket is 30,000 ISK ($211). Cleantech scooters and city electric cars for hire are available, with daily, weekly, and monthly rentals ranging from 5,000 ISK ($35) to 15,000 ISK ($103).
Climate in Reykjavik
Iceland lies in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, which gives it an incredibly mild climate for its latitude. The country experiences long summer days filled with sunshine and little rain, while winters bring plenty of snow and northern lights. The average temperature in July is 10°C (50°F), whereas January's drops to -1°C (30°F). The Gulf Stream warms up the northwestern coast of Iceland, making it milder than other places at its latitude.
Job market in Reykjavik
Reykjavik's economy is mainly driven by industries such as fishing, tourism, and high-tech sectors like biotechnology and information communication technology (ICT) where companies like Google, households, and Netflix stream collectively from Esanet colocation data centers close to Reykjavik. The capital city's healthy job market provides expert services for expats in various fields. For instance, US-based banks like Citibank and Farmers provide employment for many expats in Iceland.
Healthcare in Reykjavik
Iceland's healthcare system is considered one of the best in the world, boasting high-quality facilities, and services at very affordable rates. Expats in Reykjavik have access to public and private healthcare systems via social security and health insurance policies covering cases like injury, illness, and childbirth. Reykjavik has multiple public and private hospitals, and clinics with english-speaking doctors for expats looking for healthcare services.
Transport in Reykjavik
Reykjavik's robust public transportation system reduces travel time and cost for commuters, and includes city busses, cleantech-powered electric cars and a metrobus, and taxis that offer various payment methods. The buses run quite frequently on the city's straight and paved roads, which minimizes driver congestion during rush hour. Expats have the liberty to purchase day, week, or monthly bus tickets.
Safety in Reykjavik
Reykjavik is regarded as one of the safest cities globally, with low crime rates, high-security measures, and efficient emergency services. The city's police department is active and vigilant, thus minimizing dangerous events in the city. It's best to avoid traveling to remote areas in nature, especially during winter, as the harsh weather may increase danger.
Neighborhoods in Reykjavik
Reykjavik Center
The Reykjavik Center is the heart of the city, offering scenic spots, cafes, galleries, shops, park benches, and street performers. The central area is luxuriant for nightlife and cultural events, with excellent restaurants.
Vesturbær
Vesturbær is the hippest and trendiest neighborhood of Reykjavik. It offers excellent cafes, bars, nightclubs, and vintage shops catering to millennials and generations X and Y. This neighborhood is a short walk away from other popular sites, including hallgrímskirkja and the harbor.
Grandi
Grandi has transformed itself from an old fishing village into a vibrant suburb of Reykjavik. It is a perfect mix of up-and-coming gentrification and industrial aesthetics. The district features scenic views of the mountainous coastline, promenades, and bird watching.
Hlíðar
Hlíðar, located north of the center of Reykjavik, presents a blend of residential houses and terraced streets paved with traditional Icelandic turf. It has the greenest surroundings in the city with Hlíðartún urban park and Snorrabár buffet restaurant, perfect for a weekend picnic or brunch.
Attractions in Reykjavik
Hallgrímskirkja
Hallgrímskirkja church features an iconic tower, towering over the city. Expats can cherish panoramic views of the city by ascending the tower. The interior exudes minimalism and natural mastery, allowing sunlight to filter through its wooden ceiling.
Perlan
Perlan is a landmarked building colossal enough to offer panoramic views of Reykjavik's surroundings characterized by glaciers, volcanoes, and mountains. Perlan also features a worth visiting natural history museum and planetarium.
Blue Lagoon
Blue Lagoon touts as one of the world's finest geothermal spas located in the Reykjanes Peninsula. The lagoon numerates milky blue waters, which make bathing an exciting experience for expats craving instagrammable pictures.
Harpa Concert Hall
Harpa is a modern-day architectural masterpiece comprising a brilliant glass facade and avant-garde interior design. The concert hall provides a platform for the symphony orchestra and choral concert series, showcasing Icelandic and foreign music.
International Schools in Reykjavik
The English School
Reykjavik
The English School offers primary, secondary, and IB programs for international students. The school provides a dynamic learning experience via outdoor activities and a Students’ Council enhancing interaction between students and teachers. Expats can enroll their children remotely via the school's corporate website.
Menntaskóli Ólafsvík
Reykjavik
Menntaskóli Ólafsvík provides quality education from pre-school to the end of high school. The school's classrooms and outdoor premises follow a Nordic and ecological learning environment. Expats may appreciate the school's language programs allowing their children to learn Icelandic and English.
Kopavogur International School
Kopavogur
Kopavogur International School joined Reykjavik's fine selection of international learning centers for expats in Reykjavik. The school offers primaries, secondaries, and IB programs to foreign children joining Icelandic classes. The distance from the city center is around ten minutes drive via the coastline road leading to downtown Reykjavik.
