Thinking about moving to Hafnarfjordur? Below we highlight some of the pros and cons of living in Hafnarfjordur.
When it comes to living in Iceland, most people think of Reykjavik, the capital city. However, there’s another town that’s worth considering: Hafnarfjordur. Known as the “Town in the Lava,” Hafnarfjordur is the third-largest city in Iceland and offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern amenities. But like any place, living in Hafnarfjordur has its pros and cons. Let’s delve into what makes this town both an attractive and challenging place to live.
Pros of Living in Hafnarfjordur
One of the biggest advantages of living in Hafnarfjordur is its stunning natural beauty. The town is nestled in a lava field and surrounded by mountains, offering breathtaking views and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. For instance, the Hellisgerdi Park is a popular spot for hiking and picnicking, and it’s also known for its elfin folklore. The town’s harbor is another beautiful spot, where you can watch the boats come and go, or even take a boat tour yourself.
Another pro of living in Hafnarfjordur is its rich cultural heritage. The town is known for its annual Viking Festival, which is the largest of its kind in Iceland. During the festival, you can enjoy Viking reenactments, traditional music and dance, and a variety of food and craft stalls. The Hafnarfjordur Museum is another cultural highlight, offering insights into the town’s history and culture.
Hafnarfjordur also offers a high quality of life. The town has a range of modern amenities, including shopping centers, restaurants, and healthcare facilities. The education system is also excellent, with several well-regarded schools and a branch of the University of Iceland. Furthermore, the town has a strong sense of community, with numerous clubs and organizations where you can get involved. For example, the Hafnarfjordur Rotary Club is a popular choice for those interested in volunteering and community service.
Finally, Hafnarfjordur is conveniently located. It’s just a 15-minute drive from Reykjavik, making it easy to commute to the capital for work or leisure. The town is also close to the Keflavik International Airport, which offers flights to a variety of international destinations.
Cons of Living in Hafnarfjordur, Iceland
Despite its many advantages, living in Hafnarfjordur also has its challenges. One of the biggest cons is the weather. Like the rest of Iceland, Hafnarfjordur has a subarctic climate, with cold winters and cool summers. The town also experiences long periods of darkness in the winter and nearly 24 hours of daylight in the summer, which can be difficult to adjust to.
Another con of living in Hafnarfjordur is the cost of living. Iceland is one of the most expensive countries in the world, and Hafnarfjordur is no exception. Everything from housing to groceries to dining out can be quite pricey. For example, a meal at a mid-range restaurant can easily cost over 3,000 ISK (around $25 USD).
While Hafnarfjordur offers a range of amenities, it doesn’t have the same level of variety or accessibility as a larger city. For instance, while there are several grocery stores in town, you may need to travel to Reykjavik for more specialized items. Similarly, while there are healthcare facilities in Hafnarfjordur, more complex medical needs may require a trip to the capital.
Finally, while Hafnarfjordur has a strong sense of community, it can also be somewhat insular. If you’re not from Iceland, it may take some time to feel fully integrated into the community. However, many locals are welcoming and friendly, and there are organizations like the Hafnarfjordur Multicultural Centre that aim to support newcomers.
In conclusion, Hafnarfjordur offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern amenities. However, it also has its challenges, including a harsh climate, high cost of living, and limited amenities compared to larger cities. Ultimately, whether or not Hafnarfjordur is the right place for you will depend on your personal preferences and circumstances.
