Cost of Living in Ireland
Last updated on Mar 27, 2023
Summary: The cost of living in Ireland is generally considered to be quite high. A nice one bedroom apartment in Ireland can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $2,000 per month, while a nice two bedroom apartment can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $3,000 per month. The cost of dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Ireland is usually around $20 to $30 per person.
Is the cost of living in Ireland high?
We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Ireland, they wrote:
"The cost of living in Ireland depends largely on the area in which one lives and their lifestyle. In general, accommodation in Ireland is more expensive than other parts of Europe, and utilities such as gas, electricity and water can also be more expensive. Food and groceries can be more expensive in Ireland than in other parts of Europe, although there are also some relatively inexpensive options available. Other costs such as transportation, entertainment and clothing are generally comparable to other parts of Europe," remarked one expat in Ireland.
"We live very well on $2000 a month which covers everything, in a large single family (detached) home. We use free public transportation and hire (rent) a car during the off season," explained one expat living in Tobercurry.

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Will I save money living in Ireland?
"It is generally accepted that the cost of living in Ireland is relatively lower than the cost of living in the United States. Depending on where you live in the United States, you may be able to save a substantial amount of money by relocating to Ireland. Factors like sales tax, housing, transportation and food costs can contribute to the overall cost of living in each country. Additionally, the strength of currency exchange will also have a significant impact when comparing the cost of living in each country," explained one expat.
"Yes, I expected it to be expensive in Ireland and it is for the most part," said one person in Galway.
What is the average cost of housing in Ireland?
If you are thinking about moving to Ireland, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"The cost of housing in Ireland can vary greatly depending on the location, but generally speaking, accommodation in Ireland is generally more expensive than in other European countries. One-bedroom apartments can cost around €1,200 per month in urban areas and €800 in rural areas, while three-bedroom apartments can cost from €1,700 to €2,000 per month in cities and €1,200 to €1,500 per month in rural areas. Prices for houses vary even more widely, with larger detached or semi-detached properties often exceeding €2,500 per month in the bigger cities, while smaller family homes can cost anywhere in-between €1,000 and €2,000 in rural areas," wrote a person living in Ireland.
"Far more expensive here. House cost about twice the price as in Boston. Food is about 30 to 40% more," explained one expat living in Dublin.
What are typical rental prices for expats in Ireland?
"The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Ireland can vary depending on the location and the specific property, however it can range anywhere from around $1000-1200 US Dollars a month. The rental price for a nice 2 bedroom apartment in Ireland can range anywhere from around $1400-1800 US Dollars a month, depending on factors such as location and the specific property," commented one expat living in Ireland.
What appliances are typically included in a rental?
We asked foreigners in Ireland what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:
"When renting a home in Ireland, many properties come with essential appliances such as a refrigerator, dishwasher, washer and dryer. Other common amenities in rental homes include an oven and microwave, as well as a television and internet access. In some cases, depending on the property, additional appliances such as a toaster, vacuum cleaner, and kettle may be included," mentioned one expat in Ireland.
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.
Additional Information:
- Ireland Guide
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Ireland
- Members Talk about Healthcare & Health Insurance in Ireland
- Best Places to Live in Ireland
- Real Estate in Ireland
- Guide to Real Estate in Ireland
- Pros & Cons of Living in Ireland
- Cost of Living in Ireland
- 7 Things to Know Before Moving to Ireland
- 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland
- 5 Tips for Tech Jobs in Dublin
- How an Expat Retiree Fought to Stay in Ireland
- 2025 Guide to Living in Ireland
- Pros and Cons of Living in Ireland 2025
- 2025 Guide to Moving to Ireland