A publication on Main trends in migration in Iceland 1986-2006 is now available in the Statistical Series Hagtíðindi.

For the past two years, population increase in Iceland has been higher than in any other country in Europe. Population increased by 2.2% in 2005 and by 2.6% in 2006 as compared to 0.9% during the last decade of the twentieth century. Earlier, population increase in Iceland can mainly be explained by relatively high fertility rates. In recent years immigration has gained pace. In 2006, net international migration amounted to no less than 17.3 per 1,000 inhabitants as compared to 13.0 per 1,000 in 2005. Net international migration rates have been prone to fluctuations. However, no year prior to 2005 net international migration rate was higher than 6.1 (in 2000).

All regions had net gains from international migration. Most gains were experienced in the East (Austurland), a relatively sparsely populated area in the eastern part of the country where there are large scale industrial constructions. In this area, however, net internal migration was slightly negative.   

The geographical mobility of the Icelandic population is pronounced.  Internal migration rate amounted to 167.8 per 1,000 population, as compared to 191.5 in 2005. Net gains were most pronounced in areas in the vicinity of the capital region.

Main trends in migration in Iceland 1986-2006 - Statistical Series