American Expat Thrives in Iceland: Navigating Life, Finances, and Career in One of the World’s Most Expensive Countries
Jewells Chambers, a 38-year-old Black American woman, has found a new home in Reykjavik, Iceland, one of the most expensive countries in the world. After moving to Iceland in 2016 with her Icelandic husband, Chambers has fully embraced life in this Nordic nation, despite its high cost of living and cultural differences. A native New Yorker, Chambers felt a magnetic pull toward Iceland’s natural beauty, which has become a cornerstone of her well-being and her business.
In 2018, she launched “All Things Iceland,” a podcast and YouTube channel dedicated to exploring Icelandic culture, nature, and history through the eyes of an expat. What began as a passion project has grown into a full-time job, earning Chambers approximately $100,000 annually. Despite Reykjavik’s high cost of living, Chambers pays herself around $73,000 after taxes and contributions to her pension. Her monthly expenses reflect the challenges of living in such a pricey city, with rent for a one-bedroom apartment in downtown Reykjavik costing over $2,000.
Chambers’ journey to Iceland was fueled by a lifelong dream to live abroad, sparked during her high school years in Brooklyn. After graduating with a degree in engineering, she faced financial struggles in New York City but eventually reconnected with her future husband, an Icelandic man she met in college. Their relationship led her to Iceland, where she found work in digital marketing during the country’s tourism boom.
Adjusting to life in Iceland wasn’t easy at first. Chambers recalls the challenge of adapting to her coworkers’ adventurous lifestyles, but she quickly fell in love with Iceland’s natural wonders. This passion translated into her digital content, which resonated with audiences worldwide and attracted sponsorships from Icelandic companies.
Today, Chambers balances her career, personal life, and financial responsibilities in a country that, while expensive, offers her a deep sense of belonging and security. She continues to save for her future, both for retirement and for a potential home purchase with her boyfriend. As she looks to the future, Chambers is committed to growing her brand and even dreams of hosting her own travel show based in Iceland.
Chambers’ story is a testament to the power of following one’s passions and adapting to new environments. Her ability to thrive in a foreign country, while managing her finances and building a successful business, serves as an inspiration for anyone looking to pursue their dreams abroad.
