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Living In Dublin 2024: The Complete Expat Guide
Want to know if living in Dublin is for you?
You are in the right place!
Dublin is one of the most popular vacation spots in Europe. You can easily see why with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and friendly people.
But what is it like to live there?
Moving to a new place can be scary. I have lived in 18 countries and spent some time in Ireland, so I know what you need to look out for. When I visited Ireland in 2016, I very nearly moved here. In. the end, I decided on Glasgow and then Oxford. But I had a full plan ready to go.
So let’s take a look at Dublin life to help you decide if this is the best move for you!
✈️ Are you planning to move to Dublin? Look for the best flight deals with SkyScanner!
About Dublin
There are so many reasons why expats move to Dublin, Ireland. It has a small city feel but still offers anyone who lives there plenty to do!
From Phoenix Park to Temple Bar, there are great activities across the city that will help make moving abroad easier.
Foreigners in Dublin also find the expat scene welcoming, and Irish people are equally as kind!
Ireland’s capital city is also easy to navigate and explore, even on foot.
So, if you are considering living in Ireland, Dublin is a fantastic place to call home.
Cost of living in Dublin
The cost of living in Dublin will vary depending on a few factors, like where you live, your standard of living, and if you are supporting anyone else.
The average single person spends $1,083 USD (€1,010) before rent, and living in Dublin with a family costs around $3,756 USD (€ 3,500).
Depending on if you want to rent a single room or a 4 bedroom house, you can pay between $643-$2467 USD (€600- €2,300). A 2 bedroom apartment falls around the middle of that range.
One of the disadvantages of living in Dublin is that it is becoming one of the most expensive cities to live in.
But don’t let that put you off!
If you find accommodation outside the city center and limit transportation costs by walking or cycling, you can reduce your costs significantly.
Locals also recommend shopping at Aldi or Lidl to keep your monthly food costs low. They also recommend buying a house if you can as opposed to paying rent.
As long as you are willing to budget well, you can live comfortably in Dublin
Getting around Dublin
You will be happy to know that with plenty of public transportation options available, getting around Dublin is easy.
Walking is always your best bet for exploring the city center. All the shops and bars are close together, and you can get around much quicker during rush hour if you walk instead of drive.
The Dublin Bus services are an excellent option for exploring outside the city center.
Their services run all day and take you to some of the main tourist spots around the city and other attractions worth seeing.
If you’re looking for a more affordable way to travel, it’s worth investing in a LEAP Card. This card allows you to explore the city by bus, train, and tram.
The LEAP Card is a fantastic option if you are living in Dublin as a student, as there are 50% discounts on some services for students and young people.
It’s easy to use, reusable, and saves time and money when getting around the city.
Even though the roads in Ireland are pretty good overall, especially in the cities, driving can be hard work.
The rush hour traffic in Dublin makes driving more difficult, so definitely use public transport when you can.
Weather and Climate in Dublin, Ireland
Living in Ireland is great, but you’ve probably heard stories about the infamous Irish weather.
It’s true. The weather can be unpredictable and often changes from one day to the next.
If you are looking for high temperatures and endless sunshine, Dublin may not be the place for you.
No matter the time of year, expect a brisk breeze coming in from the sea. If it does rain, an umbrella won’t cut it. So make sure to bring along a good coat, as rainy weather is often cold!
Prepare for cold winter temperatures if you plan to move to Dublin. Generally speaking, snow is quite rare in Dublin, but those chilly winds can still make it feel icy.
For the most part, you should be warm enough throughout the day with a nice coat and a few extra layers.
When summer arrives, temperatures will rise nicely, but don’t expect scorching heat. The highs are usually around 68 °F (20 °C).
Don’t be surprised if it rains during the summer, but Dublin does enjoy some sunny days too.
Finding Accommodation In Dublin
Before you start living in Dublin, Ireland, you will need to find good accommodation.
Like many great expat destinations in Europe, the sooner you look for a place, the better your chance of finding what you are looking for.
September is usually when all the students arrive, so it’s a good idea to start your search before students start to move in.
The lack of supply and high demand may prolong your search for accommodation. It could take you a few months to find your ideal property.
Many expats decide to start life in Dublin by moving into temporary accommodation while continuing to search for a more permanent place to live.
You can begin your search by checking out some of the most popular housing websites, such as daft.ie or rent.ie.
There are many great areas in Dublin, but deciding where to move depends on what facilities you want to be near.
If you’re looking for a home in the city center, popular areas include Rathmines, Ranelagh, or Portobello. However, they will be a bit more expensive.
A great way to get a feel for the neighborhoods is to ask for recommendations from expat groups online. One of the most popular groups is the Expats in Dublin Facebook group.
🏠 To save money when moving to Dublin, booking cheap acommodation is the way to go! I recommend using this website.
Healthcare and Insurance for Ireland
The healthcare system is different from many countries like the United States, so it is good to know your options before you move!
The most important thing you need to know is that healthcare in Ireland can be either public or private.
The government funds public healthcare, and it is usually very affordable (if not free) if you’re a citizen of Ireland.
This allows you to see a general practitioner (aka. a family doctor) for free. It even covers some prescription medications.
However, you can also access private healthcare, which usually means you will have shorter waiting times and private rooms. To access private healthcare, you will need insurance or the ability to pay for all your health fees.
Fortunately, even if you’re not an Irish citizen, there are still ways to access free healthcare in Ireland.
UK citizens, EU nationals, and even most students studying in the country can get access to free healthcare. Most expats also have access to public healthcare, so check whether you qualify before investing in private health insurance.
Another thing worth noting, if you’re an expat, is that some employers may offer private healthcare as part of their benefits package. Double-check with your employer to see if this is an option for you!
Regardless of where you are moving to Dublin, there are great and affordable options exist for all!
Getting a Job and Working in Dublin
Dublin City is full of great jobs in various industries, and there are plenty of opportunities for expats!
One of the most popular employment options is through a tech company since most offer remote work.
Irish people tend to use Indeed and LinkedIn to find roles that fit their skill sets. You can use these to search for jobs before you move.
Also, citizens from the EEA (plus Iceland, Norway and Liechtenstein, Switzerland, and the UK) can live and work there without an employment permit or work permit. So getting set up in Dublin is a relatively straightforward process!
However, if you are not a national of any of these areas, you will need to get an employment permit and a visa to enter Ireland.
Once you’re in, the work culture in Dublin is great for anyone who values personal time.
In recent years, Ireland has introduced the “right to disconnect,” which ensures that employees have the right to switch off from work outside of regular hours.
“The right to disconnect” allows you to enjoy your weekends and evenings without having to respond to emails or phone calls! It’s a great way to ensure a work-life balance.
How to Get an Ireland Visa and Move to Dublin
Are you wondering how to move to Ireland?
Getting your Irish visas should be at the top of your moving abroad checklist!
Depending on your nationality, there are a number of documents that you will need to enter Ireland.
You can check the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) website for a full list of requirements according to your citizenship status.
It is a great free tool to help you navigate the world of international visas and permits!
After securing employment, you may also need a permit to work.
Popular options include the Critical Skills Employment Permit and the General Employment Permit.
Remember that you will need to receive a job offer before you can apply for an employment permit. Your new employer can usually assist you with the process and ensure that you apply for the correct permit.
Waiting times for visas and work permits can vary from person to person but most are done within 8 weeks. But if you are applying during a busy period, it may take longer.
Once you are in Ireland, it’s important to get your Personal Public Service (PPS) Number. This number helps you access Ireland’s social welfare benefits, public services, and other information.
You can apply for your PPS number online via the PPS website. You will need an address to apply for this number, so it’s a good idea to apply after you have signed a rental contract.
Like most processes, you must provide up-to-date documents for your application. Most expats will need to provide a passport and utility bill.
Ireland and the UK will only accept documents when providing proof of address that is less than 3 months old unless it is a council tax document.
What Languages Do They Speak in Dublin?
English is the main language spoken in Dublin and all across Ireland.
However, Gaelic is also widely spoken throughout the country. It is the first official language of Ireland, and it is taught in all primary schools throughout Dublin.
If you plan to stay long-term in Dublin, learning Gaelic would be a great way to truly immerse yourself in the culture.
It will help you understand traditional songs, historical sites, and so much more!
Even though Gaelic is the traditional language of Ireland, English is used for government documents and other significant ways of communication.
This will make your new life abroad much easier if you are an American expat or from another English-speaking country.
Schools and Education in Dublin, Ireland
The education system in Ireland is a fantastic positive, especially for anyone looking at living in Dublin with family!
Education in Ireland is compulsory for all children aged 6-16 and covers both primary and secondary education.
The school system in Ireland is similar to the UK, where students study in primary and secondary schools. Students start primary school education typically at ages 5-6, then move onto secondary level education (aka. high school) histat age 12.
All students must learn the Irish language in primary school, although some exceptions are made for expat families.
The government also provides free education to all students attending public schools. You will just need to find a school in the local area and register your child.
However, those looking for a private educational experience can send their children to a private school at their own cost.
Dublin is also home to some of the most renowned universities in Ireland, and there are plenty of options for higher education here. These include University College Dublin and Trinity College Dublin.
Some undergraduate degrees offered by Irish universities may be free for citizens from Ireland, EU/EEA countries, and Switzerland.
If you are eligible, the costs of these degrees will be covered by the Higher Education Authority (HEA).
Dublin’s well-developed education system makes it a great place to move for expats!
Note that many students will require a student visa to study in Ireland if they are not from Ireland. Learn more here.c
Meeting other Expats in Dublin
Living abroad can be hard, especially if you don’t know anyone there.
No matter where you move, if you’re an expat looking to meet other like-minded people, finding your footing can take a lot of work.
But don’t worry! There are many ways for expats in Dublin to find each other and become part of the community!
InterNations is a great place to start. It’s a global network for expats that arranges social events, networking meet-ups, activity groups, and more.
So if you’re looking to make friends and feel at home in your new city, InterNations is a great resource.
The Meetup app is also a great tool for expats in Dublin. It’s a platform that helps all kinds of people find others with similar interests and meet up in person.
Whether you’re looking to join an outdoor activities group or take part in a language exchange, Meetup is a great tool. And if you fancy going to events outside of Dublin, Meetup is a great place to find them.
Actively participating in sports groups, pub quizzes, live music events, and evening classes is also a great way to meet friends in your new city. I’ve even met people at gatherings at coffee shops, since I no longer drink alcohol.
You can find these easily online! Getting involved will help you feel immersed with like-minded people and feel less lonely.
Finally, Facebook groups are a great way to connect with other expats in Dublin.
These groups are designed specifically for people from your home country or those with similar interests.
So no matter if you are looking for Americans in Dublin or women-only groups, there are plenty of options.
Expat groups on Facebook are also useful for helping you tackle new situations like where to get your car fixed or how to make a doctor’s appointment.
👬Meeting new people makes life exciting. Make meaningful connections with like-minded people in Dublin through this website!
How to Stay Safe in Dublin
If you’re planning to move to Dublin, knowing how to be safe is important. The good news is that Dublin is a relatively safe city!
Like in any other major city, it’s important to take precautions and always stay alert.
In case of an emergency, it helps to know the number to dial. Dublin’s emergency services can be reached by dialing 999 or 112.
However, you should be able to find a police officer easily in Dublin if you ever need assistance.
It’s also important to remember that some areas of Dublin may be more dangerous than others, particularly Ballymun and Tallaght.
In terms of staying safe at night, Dublin is generally safe, but taking the same precautions as you would in any other big city is recommended.
This means keeping your valuables safe, traveling in groups, and sticking to areas you know well.
It goes without saying but avoid any dark or secluded alleys.
If you are searching for the safest area to live in Dublin, the Docklands is a good place to consider.
Even though it is one of the fanciest places to live in the city, it is an excellent escape from the tourist crowds and is very safe.
Other safe areas around the city include Portobello and St Stephen’s Green.
🏥 Even in safe cities like Dublin, accidents can happen. I recommend protecting yourself today with Safety Wing’s comprehensive insurance!
Opening a Bank Account in Dublin
European banks are hard to open when you first move.
Opening a bank account in Dublin for American expats is easy and convenient with Wise.com.
With their innovative online banking platform, expats can open an account quickly without needing to come into the office. They also offer competitive rates and helpful customer support, making it the perfect option for those looking to establish their finances in Ireland.
Wise.com has no minimum deposits or fees associated with opening and maintaining an account and provides direct integration with online services such as Apple Pay, Google Pay and PayPal.
This makes managing money simpler while traveling or living abroad. By utilizing Wise.com’s convenient online infrastructure, American expats in Dublin can easily open a bank account to start building their financial future in Ireland with ease!
I use Wise.com as my international account whenever I move abroad.
Get the lowest conversion fees with Wise.com!
FAQs About Living in Dublin Ireland
Is Dublin a friendly city?
Yes, Dublin is considered a really friendly place to live. Dublin is praised for its small-town vibe and laid-back lifestyle.
Do you need a car to live in Dublin?
Not at all! Dublin is a great place to live as it is so easy to get around. There are a lot of public transport options, and you can explore the city center easily on foot. The traffic in Dublin during rush hour is bad, so driving everywhere may not be the best option anyway.
Is Dublin a good place to live in?
With great job opportunities, good healthcare options, and endless activities for all, Dublin is a good place to live. It is also a really popular place for expats because many people speak English!
Are Irish people friendly to foreigners?
Irish people are generally friendly and helpful to foreigners and visitors. You may find that Irish people are slightly more friendly outside the major cities. However, like many destinations, it may take time to develop a close friendship with them.
What salary do you need to live in Dublin?
Dublin has a fairly high cost of living, so to live comfortably, you will need to have an average salary of about $4364 (€4000) monthly. However, you can keep costs lower by not renting a property in Dublin city center.
Is Dublin or London better to live in?
If you are deciding between living in Dublin vs London, most of it comes down to personal preference. Even though both are similar, Ireland is considered to have a better quality of life overall.
Is Dublin in Northern Ireland?
No, Dublin is in the Republic of Ireland and is on the southern end. Northern Ireland is a region of Great Britain – a separate country.
Wrap Up: Living In Dublin
Ireland is a great place to visit and an even better place for expats to live.
So if you are considering living abroad, then living in Dublin is a fantastic option for you!
This English-speaking Irish capital city offers expats great quality of life, plenty of healthcare options, and endless things to do.
It is truly a great place to live for all!
So no matter if you are moving to study or for a new family adventure, Ireland welcomes everyone.
Moving to a new country is hard work. So to make sure your move goes smoothly, check out the best suitcases for moving abroad!
✈️Are you planning to move to Dublin? Look for the best flight deals on SkyScanner!
Read More About Living in Europe:
- 14 Pros and Cons of Living in France
- What It’s Like Living in Ireland: An Expat’s Perspective
- 36 Pros and Cons of Living in Germany as a Foreigner
- 44 Pros and Cons of Living in Italy as an Expat
- 33 Pros and Cons of Living in Berlin as an Expat
- 29 Best Places to Live in Europe for Expats
- 35 Pros and Cons of Living in the Czech Republic for Expats
- 29 Pros and Cons of Living in Amsterdam
- 37 Pros and Cons of Living in Turkey as a Foreign Woman
- 21 Pros and Cons of Living in Austria
- 27 Pros and Cons of Living in Sweden in
- 19 Pros and Cons of Living in Switzerland
- 23 Pros and Cons of Living in Denmark
- 15 Living in Serbia Pros and Cons
- 15 Pros and Cons of Living in Madrid
- 33 Living in Portugal Pros and Cons
- Best Things To Do In Sicily: The Ultimate Tour Guide
Living Abroad Travel Planning Guide
🚑 Should I buy expat travel insurance?
100% YES! — With basic coverage averaging just $5-10 USD per day, enjoy peace of mind with a plan from Safety Wing!
🌎 What is the best country to live in as an expat?
It depends – the best country to live in as an expat will depend on your unique needs. I developed this free quiz to help you figure out where is right for you!
📍 How do I pick a country to live abroad?
It depends – picking a country to live in is hard. That’s why I developed this $7 course to share all of the steps I’ve taken when deciding to move to 20+ different countries, and how I handle homesickness when I get there.
Ultimately, making the choice of where to move is going to be hard. But the hardest thing is deciding to move abroad at all!
💼 How do I get a job as an expat?
You can find work abroad via local job boards or temp agencies. My favourite way to work is remotely, so I always look for jobs on FlexJobs.com when I live abroad. They hire for 100% remote roles only.
If you’re looking to teach English abroad, Premier TEFL has the best online course to get you great work!
💰 How do I open a bank account abroad?
Wise.com offers free global accounts, and the cheapest money transfers. Since it can be a headache to open bank accounts in different countries (it took me 2 months in the UK!), Wise.com is a great solution.
I actually use it as my primary bank now worldwide due to the multi-currency debit card. (Read more)
👯♀️ How do you make friends abroad?
Meetup.com – Meet likeminded people who share a similar hobby with Meetup! It’s free to join, but some activities may cost money, like if you go to a cafe and get a coffee.
🙀 I don’t speak the language. Can I still live abroad?
Learn languages in no time with iTalki! Moving abroad is an opportunity to learn the language. You don’t need to know it before you leave home.
💻 Do I need a VPN?
Yes! – VPNs allow you to access more of the internet. From US Netflix in the UK to social media sites banned in Asia. It’s a really helpful and cheap thing to ensure your online activities aren’t restricted.
🧳 What’s the best luggage for living abroad?
This is my favourite luggage set for long term travel. You can read more about my review of types of suitcases for travel here.
🏡 How do I tell my friends and family I want to live abroad?
Take this $7 course and learn the exact script I used to tell my family I was moving abroad … and then when I did it again. I even include tips for prepping your family, and for how to handle family who aren’t supportive.
✈️ What’s the best site to buy cheap flights?
To find cheap flights, I recommend Skyscanner. (Read more)
🏨 What’s the best site to find cheap hotels?
To find cheap hotels, I recommend Booking.com. (Read more)
Or stay for free with Trusted Housesitters!
🚗 What’s the best site to rent cars abroad?
To find cheap rental cars, I recommend Discover Cars.
🚗 What’s the best site to find tours?
To find epic tours, I recommend Viator.
