Studying in Ireland: How Does the Cost of Living Compare in Different Cities?

Dublin

Dublin is Ireland’s capital and a major student hotspot. It’s home to the top three Irish universities in 2023, according to the Times Higher Education World Rankings.

With world-famous pubs, a buzzing nightlife and lively music scene, it’s not hard to see what makes Dublin such an attractive destination for students. You also don’t need to travel for some respite from its busy metropolis – coastal walks, seaside villages and spectacular mountain ranges lie just beyond the city.

Dublin is Ireland’s most expensive city, but living outside of the city centre, eating out less and making the most of student discounts can all help you cut down on costs.

Here’s how living costs in Dublin compare to the national average:

Though you may not save as much on utilities or transport, the cost of rent in Catania is significantly cheaper than in the rest of Italy – which should make a big difference to your overall living costs.

Cork

Cork is the second largest city in the Republic of Ireland, with a sizeable student population. Known as Ireland’s food and drink capital, it’s packed full of artisan coffee shops, cosy pubs and food markets selling its famous local produce.

University College Cork is the city’s main university and is amongst the top-ranked in the country. It offers a wide variety of taught and research postgraduate courses across its four colleges.

Limerick

Limerick is amongst Europe’s oldest cities. Dating back the 9th century, the many castles, museums and ancient walls are relics of its long and fascinating past.

It also boasts a lively music scene, many busy pubs, artisan breweries and a thriving student culture thanks to the University of Limerick.

Here’s how living costs in Limerick compare to the national average:

Galway

Galway is known for its year-round cultural events which attract visitors from across Ireland and beyond. You could attend the Galway Race Week, the city’s famous Oyster and Seafood festival, and the Cúirt International Festival of Literature.

The University of Galway is Ireland’s top university outside of Dublin, according to the 2023 Times Higher Education World Rankings, and is home to almost 4,000 international students.

Here’s how living costs in Galway compare to the national average:

Waterford

Waterford is the Republic of Ireland’s smallest and oldest city, dating all the way back to 853. You can explore its history through monuments such as Reginald’s Tower, Ireland’s oldest civic building, which sits at the heart of the aptly named Viking Triangle.

You’ll find a welcoming student community in Waterford, and benefit from relatively low living costs compared to the rest of Ireland: