Many people dream of living in Ireland: with its gorgeous countryside views and culture-rich cities, there’s not much to dislike. The biggest and most famous city in the country is the capital city of Dublin, famous for its pubs, diverse community, and unique culture. However, Dublin is also by far the most expensive place to live in Ireland. If you’re looking to move to the Emerald Isle and would like to save some money while doing so, here are some great areas outside of the capital to consider.
Galway
Located on the River Corrib next to the Atlantic Ocean, anyone who visits Galway will fall in love with it. Considered the cultural center of Ireland, this coastal town has a lot to offer at a fraction of the price of living in Dublin. Rental prices are 50-80 percent cheaper than in Dublin, and Galway still has a lot to offer culturally, with festivals throughout the year and many culinary options. In fact, Galway is so culturally rich that it was named the European capital of culture in 2020.
Cork
For those looking for a true “city” experience without the steep cost of living found in the capital city, Cork is probably your next best bet. Cork is the Republic of Ireland’s second biggest city, with over 200,000 residents. Located in the south, Cork is often referred to as the Rebel County, and it is full of employment opportunities, nightlife, and nature. Cork is a great destination for people who like to party as well as music lovers thanks to the prevalent nightlife and live music scene. County Cork also boasts some of the most beautiful nature in the Republic, including Glengarriff Forest as well as many bays and beaches.
Limerick
Limerick, like Cork, is part of the province of Munster, but it is actually closer to Galway than Cork. Located in midwestern Ireland, Limerick was founded by Vikings in the 9th century and remains one of Ireland’s busiest cities to this day. The cost of living is low compared to Dublin and many other cities, but the average annual income in Limerick is higher than anywhere else outside of Dublin. Because of this, Limerick is one of the best places to find a job in Ireland. There are many international companies within commuting distance of Limerick, contributing to its reputation as a busy business center. Limerick is also great for remote workers, as its central location makes it easy to explore the whole of Ireland on days or weekends off.
