LifeCost Blog
Dublín

Dublín

Irland

Updated on October 30, 2025

Overview

Dublin is a compact, lively capital where Georgian streets, tech campuses and pub culture meet. The city draws graduates and professionals with a strong jobs market (finance, pharma, big tech) and easy networking. Daily life is walkable/cyclable, with Luas trams, DART coastal trains and extensive buses covering most commutes. Housing is the main challenge—prices vary sharply by distance to the canal ring and BER energy rating—so many target well-connected neighborhoods like Phibsborough, Drumcondra, Rathmines or Clontarf. Expect a friendly, international vibe, thriving coffee and food scenes, and quick coastal escapes for sea swims or cliff walks. Weather is mild and changeable—layers and a good rain jacket are essential.

Average cost of living€3,204.65
Quality of Life89/100

Accommodation

Rent room (flat-share)€900.00
1-bed flat (center)€2,070.81
1-bed flat (outside)€1,731.22
3-bed flat (center)€3,634.93
3-bed flat (outside)€2,901.79

Buying House

sqm in city center€629.40
sqm outside center€497.98

Utilities

Basic utilities€212.62
Internet€49.11
Mobile plan€20.71

Transportation

One-way ticket€2.00
Monthly pass€94.00
Taxi start€4.40
Gasoline (1 l)€1.76

Leisure

Cinema ticket€13.00
Fitness club€47.13

Education

Preschool (month)€1,133.86
Intl. primary (year)€8,050.00

Demographics

Population 1,450,000
Metropolitan area population 2,060,000
Metropolitan area

Advantages

  • Strong job market (tech, finance, pharma) with international companies
  • English-speaking environment within the EU
  • Compact, walkable core with good bike potential
  • Luas trams, DART coastal trains and extensive bus network
  • Friendly, international community and vibrant pub/coffee culture
  • Quick access to coast and nature (sea swims, cliff walks)
  • Generally safe with lively neighborhoods
  • Good salaries relative to many EU cities

Disadvantages

  • × High rents and tight rental supply
  • × Frequent rain and changeable weather
  • × Energy costs can be high in poorly insulated homes (BER matters)
  • × Small apartment sizes for the price
  • × Nightlife noise in central areas
  • × Public transport can be crowded; limited late-night options
  • × Healthcare waits for some services (public system)
  • × Childcare and groceries are relatively expensive