Best Places for Digital Nomads to Live in Iceland

Iceland, the land of fire and ice, has become an increasingly popular destination for digital nomads. With its stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and modern infrastructure, it offers an ideal setting for remote workers and travelers. In this article, we'll explore seven cities and towns in Iceland that are perfect for digital nomads, each with its unique charm and attractions.

Reykjavik

As the capital and largest city, Reykjavik is a hub for digital nomads. It boasts a vibrant cultural scene, with numerous museums, galleries, and festivals. The Harpa Concert Hall is a must-visit, with its glass facade reflecting the surrounding harbor and offering breathtaking views of the North Atlantic Ocean. Cost of Living: A nice, furnished apartment in a safe, central neighborhood can cost around ISK 150,000 (approximately $1,200 USD) per month. Groceries for one person for a week cost around ISK 20,000 (approximately $160 USD). Dining out for dinner at a moderate restaurant with a drink will set you back around ISK 7,000 ($56 USD). Nomad Tip: Don't miss the Reykjavik Pride festival in August, one of the most colorful and inclusive events in the city.

Akureyri

Located in the north of Iceland, Akureyri is Iceland's second-largest city. It's known for its pleasant climate and beautiful surroundings. The botanical gardens are a popular attraction, with a diverse range of plants from around the world. Cost of Living: Renting a nice, furnished apartment in a safe, central neighborhood will cost around ISK 110,000 (approximately $900 USD) per month. Groceries for one person for a week cost around ISK 15,000 ($120 USD). Dining out for dinner at a moderate restaurant with a drink will cost around ISK 5,000 ($40 USD). Nomad Tip: Take a day trip to Godafoss waterfall, one of Iceland's most spectacular sights.

Vik

Located on the south coast, Vik is a small village with a picturesque setting. Known for its black sand beaches and stunning cliffs, it's an ideal base for exploring the southern part of Iceland. The Solheimasandur Plane Wreck is a popular attraction, with the wreckage of a US Navy DC-3 plane lying on the beach. Cost of Living: Renting a nice, furnished apartment in a safe, central neighborhood will cost around ISK 90,000 (approximately $720 USD) per month. Groceries for one person for a week cost around ISK 12,000 ($96 USD). Dining out for dinner at a moderate restaurant with a drink will cost around ISK 5,000 ($40 USD). Nomad Tip: Hike to the Dyrholaey Peninsula for breathtaking views of the sea and cliffs.

Isafjordur

Located in the Westfjords region, Isafjordur is Iceland's second-oldest town. It's known for its stunning fjords, dramatic mountains, and unique cultural heritage. The National Museum of the Westfjords is a must-visit, offering insights into the history and culture of the region. Cost of Living: Renting a nice, furnished apartment in a safe, central neighborhood will cost around ISK 120,000 (approximately $960 USD) per month. Groceries for one person for a week cost around ISK 18,000 ($144 USD). Dining out for dinner at a moderate restaurant with a drink will cost around ISK 6,000 ($48 USD). Nomad Tip: Take a whale watching tour from the town's old harbor during the summer months.

Hvolsvollur

Located in the south of Iceland, Hvolsvollur is a small town with a picturesque setting. It's known for its stunning natural beauty and access to nearby attractions, such as the Eyjafjallajokull volcano and the Seljalandsfoss waterfall. Cost of Living: Renting a nice, furnished apartment in a safe, central neighborhood will cost around ISK 110,000 (approximately $880 USD) per month. Groceries for one person for a week cost around ISK 14,000 ($112 USD). Dining out for dinner at a moderate restaurant with a drink will cost around ISK 6,000 ($48 USD). Nomad Tip: Take a day trip to the nearby Thorsmork Valley, known for its stunning landscapes and hiking trails.

Borgarnes

Located on the Western coast, Borgarnes is a small town with a rich cultural heritage. It's known for its beautiful surroundings, with nearby attractions such as the Deildartunguhver hot spring and the Reykholt geothermal area. The Settlement Center is a must-visit, offering insights into Iceland's history and the stories of the early settlers. Cost of Living: Renting a nice, furnished apartment in a safe, central neighborhood will cost around ISK 100,000 (approximately $800 USD) per month. Groceries for one person for a week cost around ISK 15,000 ($120 USD). Dining out for dinner at a moderate restaurant with a drink will cost around ISK 6,000 ($48 USD). Nomad Tip: Take a day trip to the nearby Snorrastofa, the home of Iceland's most famous medieval author, Snorri Sturluson.

Seydijordur

Located on the eastern fjords, Seydijordur is a charming town with a unique character. It's known for its stunning natural beauty and access to nearby attractions, such as the Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon and the Vatnajökull glacier. The Eastfjords Heritage Museum is a must-visit, offering insights into the history and culture of the region. Cost of Living: Renting a nice, furnished apartment in a safe, central neighborhood will cost around ISK 130,000 (approximately $1,040 USD) per month. Groceries for one person for a week cost around ISK 20,000 ($160 USD). Dining out for dinner at a moderate restaurant with a drink will cost around ISK 7,000 ($56 USD). Nomad Tip: Take a day trip to the nearby Aldeyjarfjordur fjord, known for its stunning landscapes and unique birdlife.

Where to Stay & Eat: In Reykjavik, try staying in the 101 Reykjavik or Grandi neighborhoods for easy access to cafes, bars, and coworking spaces. For dining, try Reykjavik Roasters for coffee and sandwiches, or Apotek for gourmet burgers. In Akureyri, try staying in the center of town for easy access to amenities. For dining, try Kaffi Krus for coffee and pastries, or Bergbúi for seafood dishes.