Welcome to your guide to the Iceland job market. Finding the right job or candidate requires solid data. Here you will find key figures on employment, salaries and the economy to support your next career step or recruitment decision in Iceland.
Job market overview
| Key metric | Current value |
|---|---|
| Total population | 343,599 residents |
| Employment rate | 71% |
| Unemployment rate | 3.8%Low unemployment – employers often compete for skilled staff. |
With an unemployment rate of 3.8%, Iceland has a tight labor market. Skilled professionals are usually in demand.
Living & working in Iceland: salaries and cost of living
Before relocating or applying for jobs in Iceland, consider these key economic factors:
| Indicator | Value | Compared with the U.S. |
|---|---|---|
| Average monthly salary | 6,100 USD | 135% of the U.S. averagesimilar level |
| Purchasing power | 92.3 | slightly weaker (U.S. = 100) |
With a purchasing power index of 92.3, the average monthly salary of 6,100 USD supports comfortable living standards in Iceland. Always compare an offer with local rents and living costs in the specific city.
Top industries & employers in IS
| Leading industry | Fishing |
| Growth sector | Manufacturing |
| Service sector | Tourism, Services |
| Major employers | Landsbankinn, Marel, Icelandair |
Job seekers will usually find the most openings in Fishing, while Manufacturing offers growth potential.
Working in Iceland – FAQ
What's the employment situation in Iceland?
Iceland has a population of about 343,599. The employment rate is 71%. The unemployment rate currently stands at 3.8%.
Which are the top companies in Iceland?
Large employers in Iceland include Landsbankinn, Marel, Icelandair.
How far does a salary go in Iceland?
The purchasing power index for Iceland is 92.3 (U.S. = 100), which means the cost of living should be weighed carefully when comparing job offers.
How can I find jobs in Iceland?
Browse the latest international openings on Cityjobs and filter by country or remote work. Employers post directly, and you apply with the employer.
Which industries matter most in Iceland?
Fishing is the leading industry, while Manufacturing is an important growth sector, alongside Tourism, Services.
Data sources & methodology
The figures in this guide are compiled from these public sources:
- Employment & economic data: World Bank Indicators
- Cost of living & salaries: Numbeo Cost of Living Database
