Living in Reykjavík: the ultimate expat guide

Reykjavik's job market offers promising opportunities for skilled professionals, particularly in growing sectors such as tourism, technology, renewable energy, and creative industries. The city benefits from a highly educated, multilingual workforce and strong connections to both European and North American markets through the European Economic Area (EEA) agreement.

Key Industries and Employment Sectors

The Icelandic economy centers around several key pillars. Tourism has become the largest export sector, accounting for approximately 8% of GDP and directly employing around 27,000 people nationwide. The technology and innovation sector is rapidly expanding, with Reykjavik emerging as a hub for software development, biotechnology, health technologies, and data centers powered by cheap renewable energy. Traditional industries like fisheries remain significant, contributing around 5% of employment, while aluminum smelting and renewable energy production attract substantial foreign investment.

Work Permits and Visa Requirements

Citizens of EEA, EFTA, and Faroe Islands can work in Iceland without a work permit, though they must register with Registers Iceland if staying beyond three months. Non-EEA nationals require both a residence permit and a work permit before starting employment. The employer must demonstrate that the position cannot be filled by local or EEA candidates. Processing times typically range from 8-10 months for first-time applications. All workers need a kennitala (national identification number) to open bank accounts and receive salaries.

The table below summarizes key employment indicators for Reykjavik and Iceland.

Sources: EURES - European Commission, Trading Economics, Statistics Iceland

Reykjavik is home to Iceland's leading universities, offering a range of programs taught in both Icelandic and English. The city's compact size creates close-knit academic communities with strong industry connections, particularly in fields like geothermal energy, marine sciences, and technology.

Major Universities

The University of Iceland (Háskóli Íslands), founded in 1911, is the country's largest and oldest institution with approximately 15,000 students, including around 1,700 international students. It offers nearly 400 programs across social sciences, health sciences, natural sciences, engineering, and humanities. Notably, the university does not charge tuition fees—only an annual registration fee of ISK 75,000 (approximately USD 530) for all students regardless of nationality. Many graduate programs are taught entirely in English.

Reykjavik University (Háskólinn í Reykjavík), founded in 1998, is Iceland's largest private university, ranked among the world's top young universities. It specializes in business, computer science, engineering, and law, maintaining strong collaborations with Icelandic companies like Icelandair and Landsvirkjun. Tuition fees vary: EU/EEA students pay approximately ISK 305,000-449,000 per semester, while non-EU/EEA students pay ISK 835,000-1,250,000 per semester depending on the program.

Admission and Student Life

International student applications at the University of Iceland are typically accepted between December and February. Graduate programs generally require English proficiency (TOEFL or IELTS) and relevant undergraduate qualifications. The Iceland University of the Arts offers specialized programs in design, music, fine arts, and theater with some English-language options. Student housing is limited, so early applications to university residence halls are recommended. The Icelandic Government Scholarships provide funding for international students studying Icelandic language, literature, and history.

Sources: University of Iceland, Reykjavik University

Iceland's education system provides free, high-quality schooling from age 6 to 16, with excellent options for expat families seeking English-language instruction. The country invests heavily in education, and schools emphasize creativity, outdoor learning, and student wellbeing.

Public Education System

Children in Iceland attend compulsory education (grunnskóli) from ages 6-16, with instruction primarily in Icelandic. Public schools are free and generally of high quality. Many expat children adapt quickly to Icelandic schools, particularly younger ones who pick up the language rapidly. The curriculum includes mandatory English and Danish lessons, swimming, and outdoor activities. After-school programs (frístundaheimili) are available for children aged 6-9 at subsidized rates. Secondary schools (ages 16-20) offer various tracks including academic preparation for university.

International Schools

For families preferring English-medium education, Reykjavik offers several international options. The International School of Iceland (ISI) in Garðabær provides education from kindergarten through grade 10 (ages 5-16). It offers two streams: an English stream for temporary residents and a bilingual Icelandic-English stream for permanent residents. ISI is authorized as an IB World School offering the Middle Years Programme and is accredited by CIS and MSA. Landakotsskóli International Department, established in 2015 in central Reykjavik, is an authorized Cambridge International School offering English-medium education from kindergarten through grade 10. Menntaskólinn við Hamrahlíð (MH) offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme for students aged 16-19, including a pre-IB year taught entirely in English.

Tuition fees at international schools vary but typically range from ISK 800,000 to ISK 1,500,000 per year. Childcare for children under 2 is provided by registered day-parents (dagforeldri) at approximately ISK 70,000 per month, while subsidized kindergarten is available from age 2.

Sources: Work in Iceland - Government Portal, International School of Iceland, Landakotsskóli International Department

Reykjavik's rental market is competitive and relatively expensive compared to European averages, though more affordable than other Nordic capitals. The city is compact and walkable, with distinct neighborhoods offering different atmospheres and price points.

Popular Neighborhoods for Expats

Miðborg (101 Downtown) is the vibrant city center, home to Hallgrímskirkja church, colorful houses, restaurants, and nightlife. It's ideal for those wanting to be at the heart of cultural life, though rents are premium. Vesturbær (West Town) offers a trendy, residential feel near the Old Harbour, University of Iceland, and Harpa Concert Hall—popular with students and families seeking a balance of urban amenities and quiet streets. Hlíðar (105) is a charming residential district just east of downtown, known for green spaces, Perlan museum, and the Reykjavik Art Museum. It offers slightly lower rents while remaining walkable to the center. Laugardalur (104) is a family-friendly area featuring Iceland's largest outdoor swimming pool, botanical gardens, and sports facilities. It's quieter and more affordable, with good bus connections. Surrounding municipalities like Garðabær and Kópavogur offer suburban living with lower rents and easy commutes.

Rental Prices and Process

The rental market has seen significant increases, with average rents in newly registered contracts reaching approximately ISK 263,000-323,000 (USD 1,850-2,270) per month in 2025. The table below provides typical rent ranges.

Rental contracts typically require a security deposit of one to three months' rent. Notice periods are generally six months for indefinite residential leases. Popular platforms for finding rentals include local newspapers (Morgunblaðið, Vísir), Bland.is, and Facebook groups. Beware of scams—never transfer money without viewing a property in person.

Sources: Iceland Review, Global Property Guide

Despite its small size, Reykjavik punches well above its weight in cultural offerings, from world-class museums and a thriving music scene to outdoor adventures accessible within minutes of the city center.

Museums and Cultural Attractions

Perlan (The Pearl) is Reykjavik's premier attraction, featuring the immersive Wonders of Iceland exhibition with a 100-meter indoor ice cave, planetarium shows about the Northern Lights, and a 360-degree observation deck offering panoramic city views. Harpa Concert Hall, with its stunning glass façade designed by Olafur Eliasson, hosts concerts, opera, and conferences, and is worth visiting for its architecture alone. The National Museum of Iceland traces 1,200 years of Icelandic history, while the Settlement Exhibition displays archaeological remains of one of the oldest human habitations in Reykjavik. The Reykjavik Art Museum operates three venues showcasing Icelandic and international contemporary art.

Outdoor Activities and Nature

Nature experiences define life in Reykjavik. The city's geothermal swimming pools, particularly Laugardalslaug, Vesturbæjarlaug, and Sundhöllin, are essential social hubs open year-round. Watching the Northern Lights from September to March is a highlight, visible even from within the city on clear nights. Day trips to the Golden Circle (Þingvellir National Park, Geysir, Gullfoss waterfall), the Blue Lagoon, and whale watching tours from the Old Harbour are easily arranged. Mount Esja offers accessible hiking with stunning views, while the Viðey Island ferry provides a quick nature escape. Nauthólsvík geothermal beach allows swimming in heated seawater during summer.

Nightlife and Events

Reykjavik's nightlife is legendary, concentrated along Laugavegur street. Bars and clubs stay open until 4:00 AM on weekends, with locals typically heading out after midnight. The city hosts numerous festivals including Iceland Airwaves (music), Reykjavik Arts Festival, and traditional celebrations like Þorrablót (midwinter feast) and Jónsmessa (midsummer). The annual Culture Night in August transforms the city into an outdoor festival.

Sources: Perlan Museum, Visit Reykjavik

Life in Reykjavik combines Nordic efficiency with a unique Icelandic character. The city is compact enough to navigate easily, with a strong emphasis on outdoor activities, community swimming pools, and a vibrant cultural scene despite its small size.

Transportation

Reykjavik's public transport consists of the Strætó bus system, which operates 29 routes throughout the capital region. Main routes run every 10-15 minutes during peak hours and every 30 minutes at other times. A single fare costs ISK 650 (approximately USD 4.60), valid for 75 minutes including transfers. Monthly passes cost around ISK 16,000. Payment is via the Klapp app or contactless bank cards—cash is no longer accepted on city buses. Night buses operate on weekends from 1:00-4:30 AM. There is no metro or train system in Reykjavik. Many residents own cars, particularly for trips outside the city. Cycling is increasingly popular, with bike-friendly paths in central areas. Taxis are expensive, with a 5km journey costing approximately ISK 3,000-4,000.

Lifestyle and Cultural Particulars

Icelanders embrace the outdoors year-round, regardless of weather. Geothermal swimming pools are central to social life—Reykjavik has numerous heated outdoor pools where locals gather to swim, soak in hot tubs, and socialize. The famous Laugardalslaug pool complex is particularly popular. Daylight varies dramatically: summer brings the midnight sun with nearly 24 hours of light, while winter offers just 4-5 hours of daylight but the chance to see the Northern Lights. Icelanders typically work 40 hours per week with a minimum of 24 vacation days annually. The country has pioneered reduced working hours trials with positive results. English is widely spoken, though learning Icelandic is appreciated and beneficial for integration. Tipping is not customary, as service charges are included in prices.

Sources: Strætó, Visit Reykjavik

Reykjavik is an expensive city by global standards, with costs generally higher than most European capitals. However, high salaries, excellent public services, and quality of life help offset the expenses. Understanding typical costs helps with financial planning.

Monthly Budget for a Single Person

A single professional can expect to spend approximately ISK 350,000-500,000 (USD 2,450-3,500) per month excluding rent, depending on lifestyle. The table below provides a breakdown of typical monthly expenses.

Monthly Budget for a Family of Four

Families should budget approximately ISK 700,000-1,000,000 (USD 4,900-7,000) per month excluding rent and school fees, depending on lifestyle choices.

To save money, shop at discount supermarkets like Bónus and Krónan. Utilities are relatively affordable due to geothermal heating. Public schools are free, and healthcare is heavily subsidized for residents.

Sources: Numbeo, Arctic Adventures - Prices in Iceland