Iceland Net Migration
Net migration SM.POP.NETM
Iceland's net migration was 2,709 in 2025, ranked 161st globally. This represents a 23.5% decrease from 2024. Data from World Bank, covering 1960–2025.
Overview
Iceland's net migration stood at 2,709 in 2025, a decline of +834 from 2024. Based on recent trends, this figure is projected to reach 2,247 by 2026. Iceland ranked 161st globally.
Iceland's net migration has experienced significant fluctuations over the past 66 years, with a notable all-time peak of 8,348.00 in 2017, contrasting sharply with the all-time trough of -4,785.00 in 2009. The country's latest net migration figure stands at 2,709.00, ranking it 161 globally. In comparison, Slovenia, a peer country, also exhibits a comparable net migration rate of 2,711.00. Iceland's net migration rate has been steadily increasing since the 2009 trough, indicating a positive trend. The country's geographical location and economic stability have likely contributed to this trend, with many individuals drawn to Iceland's high standard of living and unique environment. However, a decline in the global economy or changes in Iceland's economic policies could potentially alter the trajectory of net migration, causing it to decrease or stabilize.
Data & projection
| Year | Net Migration | YoY change | Rank |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2028* trend | 768 | - | - |
| 2027* trend | 1,507 | - | - |
| 2026* trend | 2,247 | - | - |
| 2025 | 2,709 | −834 | #161 |
| 2024 | 3,543 | −1,087 | #160 |
| 2023 | 4,630 | −1,905 | #152 |
| 2022 | 6,535 | +1,624 | #145 |
| 2021 | 4,911 | +2,413 | #157 |
| 2020 | 2,498 | −2,532 | #150 |
| 2019 | 5,030 | −1,608 | #151 |
| 2018 | 6,638 | −1,710 | #145 |
| 2017 | 8,348 | +4,220 | #152 |
| 2016 | 4,128 | +2,629 | #141 |
| 2015 | 1,499 | +360 | #145 |
| 2014 | 1,139 | −527 | #145 |
| 2013 | 1,666 | +1,943 | #145 |
| 2012 | -277 | +1,116 | #115 |
| 2011 | -1,393 | +662 | #101 |
Detected Pattern
Analysis
Iceland matched the Export Boom Cycle pattern in 2016. Historically, 71% of countries showing this pattern (546 out of 768) saw net migration improve within 24 months. View full analysis →
Frequently Asked Questions
Iceland's net migration was 2,709 in 2025. Ranked 161st globally. This represents a 23.5% decrease from the previous year.
Iceland's net migration peaked at 8,348 in 2017.
The lowest net migration in Iceland was -4,785 in 2009.
Iceland ranks 161st globally in net migration as of 2025.
The World Bank indicator code is SM.POP.NETM. Data sourced from World Bank.
Iceland's net migration is projected to reach 2,247 by 2026 based on trend extrapolation.
The net migration of Iceland in 2025 was 2,709. This ranks 161st in the world.
Cite this page
@misc{historysaid_iceland_net-migration,
title = {Iceland Net Migration},
url = {https://historysaid.com/iceland/net-migration/},
publisher = {HistorySaid},
year = {2026}
}