Moving to Dublin

Characterised by lush dales, magnificent scenery, ancient cities and towns and friendly people, Ireland is an increasingly attractive prospect for expats and its capital, Dublin, is drawing more foreigners than ever before. The city retains majestic reminders of a storied past combined with eminently modern features and infrastructure, resulting in one of Europe's most beautiful and efficient cities today.

Living in Dublin as an expat

For years, the capital of the Emerald Isle was known as a peripheral European centre with sluggish industry and good alcohol. You might have moved for the charm of the city and its friendly residents rather than career development or lucrative salaries. Following Brexit and the fact that many corporations are now choosing to base their European headquarters in Dublin, the Irish capital is experiencing an economic boom and is now more attractive as a destination than ever before.

Remnants of a gilded age persist, mixed with modern construction projects housing the offices of a slew of international companies. A substantial IT industry and a booming tech sector are drawing people from the USA, Europe and elsewhere to live and work in Dublin. Several major pharmaceutical companies also have manufacturing centres or headquarters in the city.

Cost of living in Dublin

Dublin’s cost of living is rather high, driven by several key factors. Housing prices have skyrocketed due to a severe housing shortage and high demand from both locals and international investors. Limited new construction and the growth of short-term vacation rentals have worsened the housing crisis.

Consumer goods, utilities and transport costs are significantly higher than the national average, reflecting Dublin's status as an economic hub. High rents drive up the costs of other services and goods as businesses pass on their own rising expenses.

Dublin also attracts a lot of economic activity and investment, increasing demand and prices across many sectors. The concentration of high-paying jobs in industries like tech and finance further drives up housing and living costs.

Mercer's 2024 Cost of Living City Ranking places Dublin 41st out of 226 cities, making it one of the more expensive European capitals. The cramped and overpriced living quarters can be difficult to adjust to. That said, if you manage to secure a job in Ireland, you are usually paid enough to ensure a good quality of life despite the expenses. In true Dublin fashion, most hardships can be overcome at the local pub.

Families and children

Ireland offers free high-quality education, which can save you a great deal of money compared to countries where pricey international schools are the only viable option. The system ensures universal access and equitable opportunities for all children. If you want your children to study a specific curriculum – such as that of France, Germany or the International Baccalaureate – there are several Dublin international schools to fulfil this need, though naturally at a higher price.

Both public and private healthcare offer a good standard of care, with the main difference being waiting times and costs. Public healthcare provides universal access and is generally free or subsidised, but there may be longer waiting times for non-urgent treatments. While more expensive, private healthcare offers faster access and greater choice of hospitals and consultants, including high-tech facilities like Blackrock Clinic and Beacon Hospital.

Climate in Dublin

While Dublin's rainy weather is not one of the drawcards pulling you to the city, it isn't all that bad once you adjust, and you will find life goes on despite the rain. On particularly gloomy days, it can be heartening to remember that all that rain contributes to Ireland's gorgeously green landscape.

Having transformed into a cosmopolitan city and opened up as an international pivot point, Dublin retains an authentic atmosphere, combining cobblestone history with glass-and-steel modernity. Living here, you are perfectly placed to enjoy the best of life in Ireland and explore the rest of Western Europe, much of which is a quick and affordable flight away.