The municipality of Dalvíkurbyggð was formed in 1998 by the merger of three districts of outer Eyjafjörður: the town of Dalvík and the rural districts of Svarfaðardalur and Árskógur [ˈaurˌskouː(ɣ)ʏr̥].

The logo of Dalvíkurbyggð shows three mountains, signifying the joining of the three communities.

Dalvík harbor is a regional commercial port for import and fishing.

The ferry Sæfari, which sails from Dalvík, serves the island of Grímsey, Iceland's northernmost community, which lies on the Arctic Circle.

Dalvík is also a tourist destination for boat trips in whale watching and heli skiing.