Pros and cons of moving to Dublin

As is the case with any city, living in Dublin has both perks and pitfalls. If you're considering moving to the Emerald Isle, arm yourself with all the facts before relocating to avoid any unexpected catches, snags, or disappointments. A good start would be to check out our pros and cons of living in Dublin below.

Lifestyle in Dublin

+ PRO: Lots to do

From pubs and bars to museums and cultural gems, you're sure to find plenty to see and do in Dublin. Must-see spots include the EPIC Irish Emigration Museum, the Museum of Literature Ireland (MoLI) and the National Museum of Ireland. Exploring Dublin's pub scene is a fantastic way to meet locals, while culture lovers will fall in love with the city's rich history.

- CON: Early closing times

You may be surprised to find that, despite Dublin's lively social scene, pubs tend to close around midnight and public transport at any point after 11.30pm is a rarity.

+ PRO: Hidden gems to discover

Dublin is full of lesser-known but fascinating places. Check out Marsh's Library for a remarkable collection of rare books. Try the Escape Boats for an immersive escape room experience on a boat. The Northside of Dublin offers a variety of hidden eateries and cosy cafés, and Iveagh Gardens provides a serene oasis of tranquillity in the city.

Accommodation in Dublin

- CON: Expensive accommodation

Although there is much to enjoy about living in Dublin, the often breathtaking cost of accommodation is certainly one of the city's downsides. Rental prices in Dublin are frequently higher than those in other European capitals. You'll find you have to part with a healthy portion of your salary to afford an apartment or townhouse.

+ PRO: Affordable suburbs

Despite the high rental costs, Dublin's suburbs have more affordable neighbourhoods. Ballyfermot, 4 miles (7km) from the city centre and Finglas, halfway between the city centre and the airport, offer more reasonable options. Clondalkin, 6 miles (10km) from the centre, is another area with lower median house prices.

Education and schools in Dublin

+ PRO: Free education

Irish schools are free to attend for both locals and expats, and the country's education system is considered to be of exceptional quality. Ireland ranks highly in reading, mathematics and science performance among 15-year-olds, making it a solid choice for families.

+ PRO: Teaching is in English

Unlike many other popular expat destinations, Ireland is an English-speaking country. Public education is completely in English, so you don't have to worry about language barriers or the high fees of international schools.

+ PRO: Excellent private and international schools

Dublin boasts some top-rated private and international schools. Nord Anglia International School offers an IB curriculum. Gonzaga College SJ and Belvedere College are known for their strong academics and extracurriculars. These schools cater well to expat children, providing a smooth transition and high-quality education.

Getting around in Dublin

+ PRO: Extensive public transport network

Dublin boasts an extensive public transport network that includes buses, trains, trams, and taxis. Dublin Bus operates over 100 routes, while the DART provides an efficient coastal rail service. The Luas trams run frequently, connecting suburbs to the city centre. Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Free Now and Lynk are also widely available.

- CON: Traffic congestion and overcrowding

Traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, is a major challenge in Dublin. This can lead to longer commute times and overcrowded public transport. Road traffic particularly affects buses, while the DART and Luas systems tend to be more reliable.

+ PRO: Ongoing transport improvements

Dublin is investing heavily in its transport infrastructure. The NTA's Transport Strategy for the Greater Dublin Area includes expanding the Luas network, developing the MetroLink and enhancing the DART system through the DART+ programme. These projects aim to boost public transport capacity and connectivity.

Cost of living in Dublin

- CON: High living costs

Living in Dublin can be quite expensive. Over the past five years, rental prices have increased significantly. For instance, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre has risen by 27 percent. Utilities and everyday expenses like groceries and dining out have also seen substantial hikes. Limited housing supply and high demand, especially from international companies and students, drive up rental costs.

+ PRO: Managing costs effectively

Despite high living costs, there are ways to manage your budget effectively in Dublin. Consider living outside the city centre for more affordable rents. Use public transport options like buses and trains to save on commuting costs. 

Shopping at discount grocery shops and cooking at home can reduce food expenses. Negotiating with utility providers can also help find the best rates for electricity and internet. Take advantage of free or low-cost activities and entertainment around the city to enjoy Dublin without breaking the bank.

Weather in Dublin

- CON: Constant rain

In all likelihood, you're bound to get fed up with Dublin's famously wet climate at some point. If you're from warmer climes, you'll likely yearn for some sunshine.

+ PRO: Beautiful countryside

Nourished by the rain, Ireland's lush green countryside is the reason the country is known as the Emerald Isle. When the constant downpour gets to be too much, this thought can be a consolation for you when wishing the rain away.

+ PRO: Proximity to warmer climates

If you get a bit frazzled with the near-constant drizzle in Dublin, you can often opt to spend a few weeks of the particularly wet winters in warmer locales; Spain is especially popular among the Irish. Ireland's proximity to warmer European countries makes a warm holiday exceedingly accessible.

Healthcare in Dublin

- CON: Long wait times in public hospitals

While Dublin's public healthcare system is high-quality, long wait times for certain procedures and specialist appointments can be a drawback. Public hospitals, such as St. James's Hospital and Tallaght University Hospital, typically experience high patient volumes, leading to delays.

+ PRO: High-quality medical services

Dublin offers world-class healthcare facilities, both public and private. Public hospitals like Beaumont Hospital provide excellent care, particularly in areas like cancer treatment and emergency services. Private hospitals such as Blackrock Clinic and Mater Private Hospital are top choices for quicker access and additional amenities. 

Expats who are ordinarily resident can access public healthcare services and may apply for a medical card or GP visit card. Non-EU expats often opt for private health insurance to ensure comprehensive coverage.