🇮🇸 Planning a move to Kópavogur? Just south of Reykjavík, this municipality combines access to Iceland’s capital with a quieter, family‑friendly community. As the country’s second-largest town, it offers modern housing, local services, and strong transport connections, making it a natural choice for many newcomers. This guide covers everything you need for a successful relocation — from costs and customs to housing, banking, healthcare and more.
What should I know about living in Kópavogur at a glance?
- Flag: 🇮🇸
- Population: Around 39,000
- Currency: Icelandic Króna (ISK)
- Average Salary: ISK 6.5 million per year (~€43,000)
- Language: Icelandic (English widely spoken)
- Climate: Windy winters, cool summers, frequent rain
- Live ISK↔EUR rates: Always use up-to-date converters
Reviewed by Icelandic Statistical Office, European Central Bank, Central Bank of Iceland, XE Financial Data Team, last updated in July 2025.
How much does it cost to move door-to-door to Kópavogur?
Most personal shipments arrive via Reykjavík port, located only minutes away. Sea freight is the most common way to transport household items, while air freight is useful for small urgent shipments.
| Move Type | Time | Cost (EUR) |
| 20ft container | 3–5 weeks | 2,800–4,200 |
| 40ft container | 3–5 weeks | 4,800–6,700 |
| Air freight (1m³) | 5–8 days | 1,100–1,700 |
| Customs fees | — | 180–400 |
Reviewed by Maersk Logistics Research Team and Freightos Market Analytics Team, last updated in July 2025.
Use a real-time moving calculator for tailored estimates.
Real-life case:
“I shipped a 20ft container from Europe to Kópavogur. The delivery through Reykjavík port took just over four weeks. Everything went smoothly because I had all customs documents prepared in advance.” — Martin L., moved in July 2025
Most expats in Iceland live in Reykjavík, the capital and main international hub. Kópavogur and Hafnarfjörður, close to Reykjavík, are popular with families thanks to their residential atmosphere and access to schools and services. Outside of the capital, Akureyri in the north attracts students and workers in tourism. Reykjanesbær, located near Keflavík International Airport, is also home to many expats in the aviation and service industry.
Use a real-time moving calculator for tailored estimates.
How to understand customs and duty rules when moving belongings?
Most used household goods can be imported without duty under the transfer of residence exemption, provided you show you lived abroad for at least 12 months. A packing list and proof of residence must be provided. New items, alcohol, restricted foods, and certain electronics are subject to normal VAT and duty rules.
Reviewed by Icelandic Directorate of Customs, last updated in July 2025.
Real-life case:
“I moved from Canada and submitted proof of over a year abroad along with detailed packing lists. This made customs clearance straightforward, and all my personal belongings were released without problems.” — Sofia R., moved in March 2025
How to plan my pre-move checklist?
A structured checklist will help keep your move organized:
- 12 weeks out: Confirm visa requirements and passport validity.
- 10 weeks out: Compare international movers, request multiple quotes.
- 8 weeks out: Collect school transcripts, vaccination records, and legal documents.
- 6 weeks out: Finalize rental contracts or book temporary accommodation in Kópavogur.
- 4 weeks out: Notify local authorities in your current country, arrange utilities closure.
- 2 weeks out: Secure health insurance and book travel.
Reviewed by Expatica Iceland Team, last updated in January 2025.
How much is the cost of living in Kópavogur?
Costs in Kópavogur are close to the national average but slightly less than in Reykjavík’s city center. Rent and food are the main expenses.
| Expense | Kópavogur (ISK/mo) | Approx EUR |
| Rent 1‑bedroom (city area) | 220,000 | 1,450 |
| Groceries | 55,000 | 360 |
| Transport | 15,000 | 100 |
| Utilities | 25,000 | 165 |
Reviewed by Numbeo Data Quality Team, last updated in June 2025.
How to get a visa or residency in Iceland?
EEA/Schengen nationals: No visa required, but must register stay longer than 3 months.
Non‑EEA nationals: Residence permits are required (work, study, family). Applications involve biometrics, proof of housing, and supporting paperwork.
Permanent residence: Possible after 4 years of continuous qualifying stay.
Reviewed by Iceland Directorate of Immigration, last updated in July 2025.
How to access healthcare and insurance in Kópavogur?
Residents staying longer than 6 months qualify for Iceland’s national healthcare system after registration. During the first months, expats often use private insurance. Kópavogur benefits from clinics nearby and Reykjavík’s main hospitals for specialized treatment.
Reviewed by Directorate of Health Iceland, experts in healthcare provision, last updated in April 2025
How is the housing market for newcomers?
Kópavogur offers diverse neighborhoods, from modern apartment blocks to family homes. Popular areas include Smárinn, close to shopping, and Salaskóli, known for schools. Rental properties usually require deposits of several months. Home buying follows strict mortgage and legal processes.
Reviewed by Housing and Construction Authority Iceland (HMS), experts in property and rental analysis, last updated in April 2025
How are taxes and pensions handled in Iceland?
Taxes apply to worldwide income once you’re a resident.
Rates are progressive, combining national and municipal levels.
Double taxation treaties help avoid being taxed twice.
Pension contributions are mandatory, split between employer and employee.
Reviewed by Ministry of Finance and Economic Affairs Iceland, experts in taxation and retirement systems, last updated in May 2025
How to relocate pets to Kópavogur?
Rules for bringing pets are strict:
- Quarantine period of 2–4 weeks in approved facilities.
- Required microchip, rabies vaccination, and general health certificate.
- Certain breeds are restricted.
- Quarantine slots must be booked long in advance due to demand.
Reviewed by Icelandic Food and Veterinary Authority (MAST), experts in animal welfare and imports, last updated in December 2024
How to import a car or swap a driving licence?
Importing a car requires customs declaration, vehicle inspections, and registration within a month of arrival. VAT and duties generally apply. Driving licences from EEA countries can be exchanged for an Icelandic licence easily; drivers from non‑EEA countries may need a new driving test after one year.
Reviewed by Icelandic Transport Authority, experts in road licensing and safety, last updated in March 2024
How to open a bank account and National ID number?
The kennitala (Icelandic national ID) is essential. Without it, you cannot open a bank account, sign leases, or register for healthcare. To obtain one, apply at Registers Iceland soon after arrival. Once issued, opening a bank account requires proof of ID and address documentation.
Reviewed by Registers Iceland Service Team, experts in civil registration, last updated in February 2025
Where can I find tools and more resources before moving?
For further guidance, make use of the volume calculator, book a video survey, or explore comprehensive guides for Reykjavík, Hafnarfjörður, and Akureyri.
