(image: C.Echeveste via Shutterstock)
Dublin is renowned for its castles, cathedrals, cobbled streets lined with raucous pubs and large public parks. From the historic Trinity College to the lively Temple Bar district, there’s always something to do, no matter what your interests are. Those living in the city full time benefit from diverse job opportunities – particularly in tech and finance – and excellent healthcare.
On the flip side, Dublin’s cost of living and property prices are much higher than the rest of Ireland. As of 2024, the average cost of a home in the city was almost €700,000 [1], while estimated monthly living costs for a family of four are €3,762.
Whether you’re considering a retirement, holiday or permanent home in Ireland, cities like Cork, Limerick, Galway and Waterford are affordable alternatives to the capital.
Cork
Cork is a foodie’s paradise (image: Gabriele_Dessi via Shutterstock)
Often referred to as the “Real Capital” by locals, Cork is Ireland’s second-largest city, situated along the River Lee in the south.
The city is a foodie’s paradise, with a wide range of restaurants serving locally sourced ingredients, the famous English Market, where you can buy local produce and artisanal goods and events like the Cork on a Fork Festival. There are many other festivals throughout the year too, like the Cork Jazz Festival and the Midsummer Festival.
If you’re thinking of moving to Cork full time, you’ll find plenty of job opportunities, especially in tech and pharmaceuticals. Big companies like Apple and Pfizer have major operations here, so there’s strong demand for professionals in these fields.
The cost of living in Cork is 2.3% lower than in Dublin. As of 2024, the average price of a home in Cork city was €347,263 [1]. For a two-bedroom apartment, prices average around €205,000, while four-bedroom semi-detached houses are approximately €340,000 [2].
Limerick
Limerick has a rich medieval history
Located on the River Shannon in the west, Limerick is a city rich in medieval history, featuring landmarks like King John’s Castle and the Hunt Museum. The city offers a mix of cultural activities, including theatre, music and art galleries.
Limerick has a growing economy with great job opportunities, especially in manufacturing, tech and education.
The cost of living in Limerick is 17.3% lower than in Dublin. In 2024, the average home price in Limerick city was €284,138 [1]. Two-bedroom apartments average €167,500, while four-bedroom semi-detached houses are around €278,000 [2].
Galway
Galway is known for its festivals (image: Perspectiveman via Shutterstock)
Galway, again located on the west coast, is renowned for its artistic community, lively atmosphere and wide range of festivals. Some of the most famous events include the Galway International Arts Festival and the Galway Races, which attract visitors from around the world.
The local economy thrives on tourism, education and medical device manufacturing, with companies like Boston Scientific operating in the area.
Galway’s cost of living is 14.5% lower than in Dublin, and while property prices in Galway have seen significant growth, they are still generally lower than in the capital. In 2024, the average home price in Galway city was €389,742 [1]. You can get a two-bedroom apartment from around €233,000 [2] and a four-bedroom semi-detached house costs around €450,000.
Waterford
Waterford was founded by Vikings (image: 4H4 PH via Shutterstock)
Waterford, located in the southeast, is Ireland’s oldest city, known for its Viking heritage and the world-famous Waterford Crystal. The city offers all the amenities you’d expect, including shopping centres, restaurants and cultural attractions like the Waterford Museum of Treasures.
Waterford’s economy is diverse, with strengths in manufacturing, pharmaceuticals and agriculture. The Waterford Institute of Technology also contributes to the local job market and educational opportunities.
In 2024, the average home price in Waterford city was €247,236 [1]. Overall, property prices in Waterford are more affordable than all the other Irish cities mentioned in this article.
Summary
If you’re thinking of buying a home in an Irish city, Dublin is the obvious choice. However, the country’s other big cities shouldn’t be overlooked. Each one has its own unique charm, offering employment opportunities and more affordable living options than the capital.
Whether you’re seeking the culinary delights of Cork, the historical charm of Limerick, the artistic spirit of Galway or the heritage of Waterford, there’s a city in Ireland to suit your lifestyle and budget.
Sources:
[1]: https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/irish-house-prices-rose-by-9-in-2024-report-finds-1713453.html
[2]: https://mortgage123.ie/property-prices-ireland/
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