Pros and Cons of Living in Ireland
Last updated on Nov 05, 2023
Summary: The pros of living in Ireland include its beautiful scenery, friendly people, and vibrant culture. Ireland is also known for its excellent education system and its strong economy. Additionally, the country is known for its low crime rate and its high quality of life. The cons of living in Ireland include its high cost of living, especially in the larger cities. Additionally, the weather can be unpredictable and the country is known for its frequent rain. Furthermore, the country is relatively small, so there are limited job opportunities and career paths.
What are the pros and cons of living in Ireland?
Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Ireland responded:
"Expats and digital nomads often appreciate the friendly and welcoming atmosphere of Ireland. They also enjoy the country's stunning natural beauty, with its rolling hills, lush green landscapes, and rugged coastline. Additionally, the country's vibrant culture, with its traditional music, literature, and art, is a major draw for many expats. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may find the cost of living in Ireland to be quite high, particularly in the larger cities. Additionally, the weather can be unpredictable, with frequent rain and cold temperatures," remarked one expat in Ireland.
"When we explored our new home country, taking pictures of all we found so incredibly beautiful we realized the area where we finally settled was our most photogenic. When we explored going from rental property in our first residence to purchasing elsewhere we found a tremendously beautiful condominium on the river available and affordable. We have lived in our purchased place for almost two of the five years in country and have absolutely no dislikes. We can walk beautiful nature trails along the river, walk to all amenities the town offers such as restaurants, pubs, takeaway, grocers and pharmacies, banks, varied shops. Most days we watch dozens of species of wild birds flock to our feeders, our views include, deer, cattle, sheep and numerous heritage boats and sports craft going by. Every person we see has a smile and a wave and simple short walks to town often evolve into lengthy good conversations (the Craic)," explained one expat in Ballyconnell.
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What do expats in Ireland appreciate most about the local culture?
"Irish people are friendly enough after they get to know you. Food was relatively cheap and higher quality in some cases than in US. I lived in a 54 individual house development for retired (65) or disabled people less than 65 could also qualify. I was one of the first ones to rent in there," remarked one in Enniscorthy.
"Multicultural environment, ability to travel more, possibilities seem to be expanded here as compared to Argentina/Latin America, more connection with the spiritual side of human being," explained one expat.
"I love that kids stay innocent longer here. The kids just play and run around and there isn't the same fears associated with it as there would have been in my home town in Canada. People are very friendly and inviting and go to great lengths to help you out once they know you. We've been warmly included in many traditions and celebrations here. We also love the history and have spent a lot of time exploring the country learning as much as we can. It's a gorgeous place to live, especially when sunny," said one person in South County Dublin.
"Expats in Ireland are especially appreciative of the country's vibrant culture, friendly and welcoming people, and traditional Irish music. Many expats also enjoy exploring the country's stunningly beautiful landscape, diverse and rich history, and great sense of humor. Irish people are also known for their excellent hospitality, making it an appealing place for foreign visitors who want to feel welcome and accepted. The country's deep traditions, both in folklore and in music, are also something many expats value, as it reminds them of their cultural roots," remarked one expat in Ireland.
"The history and the beautiful scenery. The Dingle Peninsula made me cry from the absolute beauty of it. Store staff are always willing to chat, ask you where you're from, and try to find connections," explained one expat living in North Tipperary.
Home finding, schooling, moving, settling-in and more for UK, London and Ireland. Cornerstone is a tech-driven, innovative relocation company. Making relocating to London, UK, Ireland and beyond a happy experience!
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
Home finding, schooling, moving, settling-in and more for UK, London and Ireland. Cornerstone is a tech-driven, innovative relocation company. Making relocating to London, UK, Ireland and beyond a happy experience!
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
What do expats find most challenging?
"Nobody is in a hurry to do anything and they run on "Irish time" meaning it's normal and acceptable to be late. It has taken us a long time to get used to this. Repairs take forever as does processing paperwork. Don't even get me started on the challenges of getting a full Irish driving license!!," said a person living in South County Dublin.
"Difficult in a small town to become a part of the community. Had planned to volunteer in the schools, but they don't do that here. But we're making baby steps. Buying anything is a nightmare. I was so used to shopping online. Not really possibly here. Products are so different," explained one expat living in North Tipperary.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Ireland?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Ireland?
- Will I be able to find a job in Ireland?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do expats in Ireland appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Ireland?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Ireland accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Ireland like?
- How are healthcare services in Ireland?
- What are medical services in Ireland like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Ireland?
- What are emergency services like in Ireland?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Ireland?
- How are local medical facilities in Ireland?
- As a foreigner living in Ireland, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?