Isn’t it fascinating to hear people’s stories – you know, the why behind big life decisions? If you’ve ever wondered why I decided to sell everything I own and move to Iceland, I’ll be giving you the full backstory today.
It all sounds very romantic, and to an extent, it was.
But if you’ve ever been through it, you’ll know that moving abroad is hard!
There were plenty of challenges, surprises, and moments of doubt along the way.
Despite that, after living here for almost a decade, it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.
While this isn’t a guide on the exact technical requirements to move to Iceland, you’ll get an honest perspective from someone who’s been through it.
So, if you want to hear more about what it’s like, especially if you’re an American moving to Iceland, keep reading!
I’ll also share what you can expect, how to make the transition easier, and a few differences between life in the U.S. vs Iceland.
Are you wondering if the grass is greener on the other side?
Let’s get into it!
Table of Contents:
- Why Did We Decide to Move to Iceland?
- Pros of Living in Iceland
- Cons of Living in Iceland
- Life in U.S. vs Iceland
- Lessons Learned from My Move to Iceland
- How to Make the Move to Iceland Easier
- Iceland Guidebooks + Maps
Why Did We Decide to Move to Iceland?
Back in America, I was living in the third-largest city in the U.S.
The view from my apartment was of a Coca-Cola factory, and my daily routine came with its fair share of traffic jams!
I wasn’t a city girl, and soon, felt very suffocated by that lifestyle…
And no amount of weekend trips could fix it!
When my husband and I got married, we went to Iceland on our honeymoon. It was a 7-day road trip through the Golden Circle, Ring Road, and Snæfellsnes Peninsula.
Iceland stole my heart on that trip.
In the small fishing village of Húsavík in North Iceland, we were sitting in our cozy guest house, overlooking the mountains and watching an incredible sunset.
That’s when he turned to me and said, ‘We’ve always talked about living abroad. What if we move to Iceland?’
One year later we sold everything we owned, packed a few suitcases, and boarded a one-way flight back to Iceland.
Pros of Living in Iceland
Leaving everything behind wasn’t an easy decision, but the pull of Iceland’s unique lifestyle and landscapes was something we just couldn’t ignore.
It’s difficult to narrow down but here are some of the standout reasons that made my pros list for emigrating to Iceland from the U.S.
Stunning Natural Beauty and Outdoor Lifestyle
Like I said before, I’m not a city girl!
I remember constantly being in awe of the stunning landscape and wide-open spaces. Everywhere I looked, there was something new to discover.
When it comes to natural beauty, Iceland is in a league of its own. Whether it’s the Northern Lights or the midnight sun, there’s nothing quite like it.
Northern Lights in Iceland: Seeing the aurora displayed across the sky never gets old. This is a must-see on your to-do list and if you want to find the best spots to catch them, check out this post.👇
➡️ READ: How To See The Northern Lights In Iceland: Best Viewing Spots, When To Go And MORE
Waterfalls: On to my next obsession: waterfalls. With over 10,000 estimated falls in Iceland, there’s no shortage of stunning spots to explore. With so many to choose from, I’ve rounded up my top 10 favorites here.👇
➡️ READ: Chasing Waterfalls in Iceland: Discover The Top 10 Breathtaking Waterfalls In Iceland
Hiking and photography: From glacier hikes to volcanic craters, Iceland offers something for everyone who loves the outdoors. If you love hiking and haven’t considered visiting Landmannalaugar, here’s what you need to know.👇
➡️ READ: Landmannalaugar: What You Need To Know For An Epic Highlands Adventure
My favorite thing to do is get in the car, camera in hand, and explore (no matter what kind of weather Iceland decides to throw at me 😅).
I love the freedom of taking road trips, it’s one of the best ways to experience Iceland’s breathtaking scenery and culture.
That’s why I always recommend renting a car.
👉 I’ve had amazing experiences with Blue Car Rental.
Their convenient locations at Keflavík Airport and downtown Reykjavík make pick-up and drop-off easy.
They even offer an online check-in, so all you need to do is pick up your keys and hit the road.
Plus, as an Icelandic company, they understand the unique terrain and weather challenges here, and their vehicles are fully equipped to handle it!
You can snag 5% OFF the rental price automatically applied at checkout when you book using 👉this link!
Safety in Iceland: Iceland Crime Rate
Another pro of moving to Iceland from the U.S.?
The 2024 Global Peace Index ranked Iceland as the #1 safest country in the world – AGAIN!
It takes into account factors such as societal safety and security, degree of militarization and domestic and international conflict.
Not only is this a great reason to move to Iceland, but it’s also one of the safest places for solo travelers, especially women, to explore. Read more about that here.👇
➡️ READ: Solo Travel in Iceland: Why it’s the Best Country in the World to Visit Alone
Planning a trip on your own can be overwhelming.
Are you short on time and need a travel game plan?
My 7-Day Iceland Ring Road Itinerary has everything you need for the best Icelandic road trip.
You’ll get daily suggested schedules, downloadable PDFs, and a digital map with must-see spots and hidden gems.
I’ll guide you to stunning waterfalls, charming villages, and relaxing geothermal pools.
It’s road-tripping made easy!
High-Quality Healthcare and Education
If you’re looking to start a family in Iceland, basically all of your birth-related expenses are covered by public healthcare.
Aside from certain procedures, you’ll be able to receive high-quality care covered by national health insurance.
The cost of higher education in the U.S. is also significantly higher compared to Iceland.
Work-Life Balance
Icelanders prioritize work-life balance.
Companies are generally family-friendly and flexible with personal commitments. This includes things like doctor’s appointments or school pick-ups.
In summer, businesses slow down, giving families more time to enjoy the weather!
Cons of Living in Iceland
While this country is amazing, there are definitely a few disadvantages of living in Iceland.
The Cost of Living in Iceland
I love this country.
The landscapes, culture, and endless adventures…everything about it speaks to my soul!
But, it’s no secret that Iceland is an expensive country to live in.
This is usually one of the first considerations people make when they’re thinking about emigrating to Iceland.
From accommodation and utilities to food, transportation, and even a casual beer, the costs can definitely catch you off guard.
And don’t get me started on the taxes!
That being said, the standard of living is high and as I mentioned above, healthcare and education are largely covered by said taxes.
For more information on the cost of living in Iceland, check out this blog post.👇
➡️ READ: How Much is the Cost of Living in Iceland? Groceries, Housing, Transport and More
Language Barrier
Icelanders are very accommodating and you’ll find that English is widely spoken.
It’s taught in schools and children learn it from a very young age.
But, if you’re migrating to Iceland, know that Icelandic is still the official language.
In more remote areas, away from the major tourist hubs, locals may not be as quick to speak English. It’s helpful to make an effort to learn the language or at least pick up a few phrases.
If you’d like some help pronouncing the names of common places you might visit, watch the video below.👇
Iceland Weather
When you move to Iceland from the U.S., one of the biggest adjustments is dealing with the dramatic seasonal differences.
I have to admit, I feel a bit bad about complaining about this because, honestly, if you’re relocating to Iceland, you probably know what you’re signing up for, right?
But, summer in Iceland is not like most other places in the world.
It’s definitely NOT bikini weather!
And the long winter nights with only three hours of sunlight definitely take some getting used to.
Here’s the thing, though: the key to conquering Iceland’s ever-changing weather starts with how you dress.
That’s why I created the 👉 Ultimate Packing Guide for Iceland. And the best part?
It’s completely FREE!
Inside, you’ll get everything you need to make sure you’re fully prepared, especially when you’re out sightseeing.
There are monthly weather averages, layering tips, comprehensive packing checklists and suggested items to pack for the kids.
Get Your FREE PDF Download here.👇
Limited Goods and Services
A move to Iceland means adjusting to a limited choice of goods and services compared to other countries.
Especially outside of Reykjavík.
Don’t expect a selection of 50 different cereals!
And if you’re looking for certain services or specialists, it might be hard to find.
Check out this video for a closer look at how grocery shopping in Iceland compares to the U.S.
Life in U.S. vs Iceland
Whenever you experience a new culture, you’re bound to notice some differences. Some are great, some not so much, and others are just… different. The U.S. vs Iceland is no exception!
- Eating out is very relaxed: Okay, so what do I mean by this? Usually, in the U.S., restaurants like to turn tables quickly to serve more customers and, well, make more money! It’s not like that in Iceland. No one’s going to rush you out after your meal, which is really nice! That also means you’ll need to ask for the bill when you’re ready to go.
- Medications: You’ll definitely want to bring your prescription medications. Even over-the-counter meds that you’re used to grabbing in the U.S. aren’t always available over the counter in Iceland.
- Store hours are VERY different: If you move to Iceland from the U.S., be aware that stores usually open later and close earlier than what you’re used to back home.
- Alcohol is expensive: Trust me on this, you are going to pay a lot for alcohol. My tip is to stock up at duty-free when you arrive at the airport, you’ll save so much money!
If you’re looking for smart ways to save on food and drink while you’re here, you’ve got to read this blog post. 👇
➡️ READ: Traveling Iceland On A Budget? Here Are 6 Genius Tips To Save on Food & Drink!
- Vacation days: Maternity leave and vacation days in Europe are a whole different ball game compared to the United States. Taking time off is considered essential for well-being, with vacation time typically ranging from 20 to 30 days.
Curious about the other differences between Iceland and the U.S.? You’ll want to watch this video below for more details.👇
Lessons Learned from My Move to Iceland
Moving to Iceland from the U.S. wasn’t easy. Being an expat has its challenges, but the rewards are huge.
You get to try new things, experience local culture, and grow as a person.
Living in Iceland gives you a fresh take on work-life balance. Plus, the travel opportunities are amazing, with nearby countries just a short flight away.
If you’re planning a move to Iceland, here are a few lessons I’ve learned from my own experience that you can keep in mind before you leave:
- Paperwork can take a while: Now, this can vary for everyone, but it took about nine months for our work visas to be approved. Start the ball rolling on your paperwork. The process can be a long one.
- Accept help when it’s offered: Don’t be a hero! From the moment you decide: “I want to move to Iceland” your to-do list takes on a life of its own. Accept help to lessen the physical and mental load.
- Make a plan for all of your ‘stuff’: You can’t take it all with you! Start sorting out what you want to sell/donate or store.
- Start packing early: You always seem to think you have more time than you actually have. Start packing early to avoid last-minute stress.
- Be ready for surprises. There’s bound to be a hiccup or two in the whole process. Whether it’s last-minute baggage woes or running through terminals, take a deep breath and embrace that you need to be flexible.
How to Make the Move to Iceland Easier
Once you’re here, there are a few tips I recommend to help make your transition smoother.
Embrace Icelandic culture: Icelanders are incredibly proud of their heritage, so it’s a great idea to get involved in the community. Attend local festivals, meet new people, and build relationships.
You’ll be surprised at how much you’ll miss family and friends, which is why having a good network of friends is incredibly important. The good thing is that Icelanders are generally welcoming and willing to help newcomers.
Learn basic Icelandic phrases: If you’re staying for over six months, it’s worth picking up some basic Icelandic. You could take classes, use language apps and websites, or work with a tutor for some hands-on practice. Learning basic phrases will help you feel more at home and make daily interactions smoother.
Get used to the weather: Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers, waterproof gear, and be ready for all seasons in a single day. It’s normal to have rain, sun, and wind all at once!
Iceland Guidebooks + Maps
The move to Iceland wasn’t easy, but it was totally worth it!
One of the best decisions we made was planning a trip here first.
If you’re thinking about making the move, taking a vacation to test the waters is a great idea.
I mean, who wants to show up in a new country without knowing what to expect, right?
To make planning easier, check out my 👉 Iceland Guidebooks and Maps.
stress-free and experience Iceland like a local.
With my guides, you won’t have to worry about finding grocery stores, restrooms, accommodations, or restaurants – they’re all pinned on the digital map, which also highlights the major sites and secret spots.
Plus, you’ll get exclusive discounts!
If you want to follow what we did, try a 👉 7-Day Iceland Ring Road Itinerary.
7 Day Iceland Ring Road Itinerary
$125
The Ring Road circles the entire country, allowing you to experience Iceland’s most iconic sights and breathtaking landscapes in just one week.
And I’ve planned out every single detail for you.
From where to stop, stay, and even grab a scrumptious Icelandic hot dog on the way to your next epic location – consider this itinerary your key to an effortless Iceland adventure.
It’s the perfect way to experience Iceland’s iconic Ring Road in just one week.
Happy Planning!
