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Reykjavik, Iceland

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By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on May 08, 2023

Summary: People often describe Reykjavik, Iceland as a vibrant, modern city with a unique culture and stunning natural beauty. Expats love the city's friendly atmosphere, its excellent public transportation system, and its abundance of outdoor activities. The weather in Reykjavik is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to the mid-50s Fahrenheit. The average cost of living for an expat is estimated to be around $2,000 to $3,000 per month. The cost of a one bedroom apartment in Reykjavik is around $1,500 to $2,000 per month, while a two bedroom apartment can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $3,000 per month. Reykjavik has a population of approximately 121,230 people.

What are the pros and cons of living in Reykjavik?

Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Reykjavik responded:

"Expats and digital nomads living in Reykjavik, often like the stunning natural beauty of the country, with its unique landscapes, geothermal pools, and opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and whale watching. They also appreciate the high quality of life, excellent healthcare system, and low crime rates, which contribute to a safe and comfortable living environment. Reykjavik is known for its friendly and welcoming locals, who often speak English fluently, making it easy for expats to communicate and integrate into the community. The city also has a vibrant arts and culture scene, with numerous festivals, museums, and galleries to explore. On the other hand, expats and digital nomads may dislike the high cost of living in Reykjavik, as Iceland is known to be one of the most expensive countries in the world. This includes high prices for housing, groceries, dining out, and transportation. The weather can also be a challenge, with long, dark winters and unpredictable weather conditions, which may not be suitable for everyone. Additionally, the small size of Reykjavik and its remote location can make some expats feel isolated, with limited options for travel and entertainment compared to larger cities. Finally, the job market in Reykjavik can be competitive, and it may be difficult for expats to find work without specialized skills or knowledge of the Icelandic language," said one member in Reykjavik.

"Despite my earlier comment about criminal activity, Reykjavik is a wonderful place to grow up and also to raise up children. The education system is great for even the smallest of children. However, as an adult, needing to work, due to language barriers a lot of jobs are not available to me due to the level of Icelandic written and spoken that is needed to get hired. Food is expensive and the national food is not very appealing outside of the dairy products. ," remarked one expat in Reykjavik.

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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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