11 Best Places to Live in Dublin in 2024: A Complete Guide!

Moving to Dublin is a decision you won’t regret! Dublin, the UNESCO City of Literature, is Ireland's largest city and capital known for its friendly locals and cultural landmarks. Located on the east coast of River Liffey, the Viking City is home to Europe's biggest city park! Of course, we cannot overlook how the city gets its name from an Old Irish Gaelic term which literally means “Black Pool.” With a population of approximately 1.4 million, Dublin is home to almost 28% of the country’s inhabitants. Students moving here will find several best places to live in Dublin. However, finding the best area to stay in Dublin Ireland might take a lot of work. To make it a breeze for you, here is a complete list of the best places to live in Dublin for international students.  

11 Best Areas to Stay In Dublin

Dublin, Ireland's capital, thrives as a cultural hub rich in history, music, and arts. It's a magnet for students seeking a high quality of life. Dublin boasts a booming tech scene that fosters the development of some of Europe's most desirable neighbourhoods. Over 160,000 students visit Dublin every year, making it a truly international city! You can board the DART and go a short distance along the Dublin coast to a quaint fishing village if the bustle of the city ever becomes too much. Before diving into the best neighbourhoods to stay in Dublin, you might want to learn about the best types of student accommodation to help you make an informed decision.

1. Smithfield

Cost of Living: €1,850/month
Nearby Universities: Dublin City University
Crime Rate: Low
Famous For: Jameson Whiskey Tour at the Old Jameson Distillery
Total Population: 22,118
Popular Pubs: The Cobblestone, Frank Ryan’s, & Delaney’s Smithfield
Popular Restaurants: Urbanity, Mad Yolks, & Wuff

Smithfield is a bustling neighbourhood full of culture and one of the best areas to stay in Dublin. The birth of Smithfield, the best part of Dublin to stay, happened in the mid-17th century as a marketplace. It was in the 18th and 19th centuries when the area saw the rise of the distillery industry. Today, Smithfield stands as a vibrant mix of old and modern, featuring a range of Dublin accommodations and cultural venues. Students will find several houses, including modern and loft-style apartments, Georgian townhouses, terraced houses, and renovated historical buildings.   

Situated near Dublin’s financial district and the “Silicon Docks” hub, this area offers a short commute to the local hotspots. From exploring the best pubs in Dublin and sipping in local craft beers to catching a live performance with your friends and watching independent films at Light House Cinema, there’s so much you can do in this best area in Dublin to live. You can also visit The Generator for events, enjoy authentic Irish whiskey under the lofty wooden beam ceiling or visit St. Luke's Church and Imagine Art Studios. If Smithfield has already been on your mind, The P&V and Brunswick Court are the best places to live in Dublin for young professionals. 

2. Portobello

Cost of Living: €1,850/month
Nearby Universities: Dublin City University & Trinity College Dublin
Crime Rate: Low
Famous For: Old Irish Jewish Museum Tour
Total Population: NA
Popular Pubs: The Lower Deck Pub, Portobello Bar, & Kavanaghs Pub New Street
Popular Restaurants: Bibi’s Cafe Portobello & Alma

Portobello offers a youthful atmosphere with a mix of modern apartments and historic streets, making it one of the best places to live in Dublin for students. The neighbourhood’s name has been derived from the battle of Porto Bello that happened in Panama in 1739. In the 19th century, Portobello became a fashionable suburb for Dublin’s growing middle class. Victorian-era homes and modern apartments adorn this beautiful neighbourhood of Portobello. One of the trendiest and best neighbourhoods to stay in Dublin, Portobello features many yoga studios, bakeries, brunch spots, and bookshops. 

The area is easily accessible, serviced by many bus routes and within walking distance from the city centre. On weekends, students can have a coastal vacation, and enjoy gorgeous beaches and the yearly Black Christ Festival. If you’re a history buff, the ruins of Spanish forts at Portobello National Park are something you will enjoy. In this best area to live in Dublin ireland, you can see the rebuilt treasure house and learn about Sir Francis Drake's final resting place. Relax in the beautiful St. Stephen's Green Park nearby. 

With a mix of history and tranquillity in the lovely Portobello district, this is undoubtedly one of the best places to stay in Dublin Ireland. You can also find several accommodation options, like Brickwork and Highlight Thomas Street, ensuring the perfect student living experience. 

3. Rathmines

Cost of Living: €982/month
Nearby Universities: Trinity College & University College Dublin 
Crime Rate: Low
Famous For: MART or Gerard Byrne Art Gallery
Total Population: 2,755
Popular Pubs: Rody Bolands, Blackbird, & Martin B. Slattery
Popular Restaurants: Farmer Browns Rathmines & Elephant & Castle

Located just 3 km from the city centre, Rathmines is popular among students and professionals who have just moved to Dublin. Rathmines, the best area to live in Dublin Ireland, has a long history dating centuries back. It was originally a rural area that started developing as a trendy suburb in the late 18th and 19th centuries. The Rathmines Town Hall, built in 1895, stands as a testament to the neighbourhood’s rich past. 

You will never be short of restaurants, cafes, and pubs to explore on Baggot St in Rathmines, one of the best Dublin neighbourhoods. You can watch a movie at the sleek Stella Theatre and explore the antique treasures of charity stores like Oxfam Rathmines and Vincent’s. This best area of Dublin to stay boasts transport links, including a hub for Dublin bus routes.

Widely known among the safest areas in Dublin, you will never feel a shortage of perfect accommodation. From Georgian townhouses and Victorian terraces to modern apartments and converted flats, there’s so much to choose from. You can consider Montrose, owing to its location and everything that enhances your living experience. 

4. Drumcondra

Cost of Living: €1,500/month
Nearby Universities: Trinity College, Dublin City University, University College Dublin
Crime Rate: Low
Famous For: Croke Park and Tolka Park soccer stadium
Total Population: 5,923
Popular Pubs: Fagans Bar and Restaurant, Kennedy’s Pub, & Mc Graths Pub
Popular Restaurants: Restaurant 104 and Shouk

The name Drumcondra has its roots in the Irish ‘Droim Conrach,’ meaning Conra’s Ridge. Established in the 12th century, Drumcondra is one of the most affordable and best places to live in Dublin, making it popular among students and young professionals. It was part of the lands owned by Christ Church Cathedral. The area saw major growth and development in the 19th century. Why do students consider Drumcondra as one of the best neighbourhoods in Dublin to stay? Because of its quiet environment, affordable housing, and excellent nightlife. The area is also close to universities like Dublin City University and DCU All Hallows Campus. 

Students staying in Drumcondra, the best area to stay in Dublin Ireland, can take a nice stroll down the Tolka River while enjoying a cup of coffee. You can also visit Croke Park, one of Europe's largest stadiums, and the GAA Museum to learn about Irish sports history. Discover the National Botanic Gardens, which houses endangered plant species, and the Glasnevin Cemetery Museum, which is a guardian of Irish legends. What’s more? Explore the bustling community of Gaelic football energy and catch a football match at Croke Park. For book lovers, Drumcondra Library, one of the best libraries in Dublin, is an Art Deco gem and the perfect place to sit quietly and finish your book. 

Drumcondra is a fantastic choice to live in the centre of things without all the commotion and congestion. As it is one of the best places to live in Dublin, you will not be far away from the city centre, museums, and historical sites. If you are a student looking for accommodation near this area, Beckett House is the best to look out for.

5. Stoney Batter

Cost of Living: €950/month
Nearby Universities: Dublin City University & Technology University Dublin
Crime Rate: Medium
Famous For: Prominent Viking street names 
Total Population: 15,000
Popular Pubs: Walsh’s, The Glimmer Man, & The Belfry Stoneybatter
Popular Restaurants: L. Mulligan Grocer, Grano, & Korean Table

Dublin is one of the best cities to visit in Ireland, but Stoney Batter is one of the best neighbourhoods to stay in Dublin. Historically known as Bohernaglogh and located along the River Liffey, Stoneybatter was originally part of an ancient route, called Slige Mhor. Known as the Hipster Quarter, Stoney Batter features a range of trendy cafes, restaurants, and pubs like The Brazen Head.  

Stoney Batter, one of the good areas to live in Dublin, offers easy access to the city's attractions, local walks, and a variety of restaurants. You can learn about the famous Stony Batter Famous Reserve, a bunker with underground storage or take in the expansive vistas of the Coromandel Peninsula and Hauraki Gulf. You can also enjoy a breath of fresh air at nearby Constitution Hill or Mountjoy Square Park.

Stoney Batter is the perfect location for anyone looking for student accommodation in Dublin near green space. Highlight Parkgate is a popular student accommodation known for providing all of the necessary features. It is definitely one of the best places to live in Dublin!

6. D4

Cost of Living: €1,092/month
Nearby Universities: Royal College of Surgeons & Dublin Institute of Technology
Crime Rate: Medium
Famous For: Georgian architecture, RDS Arena 
Total Population: NA
Popular Pubs: Horse Show House, Searsons, & Paddy Cullen’s Pub
Popular Restaurants: Mae Restaurant Dublin & Al Boschetto

Next on our list of the best places to live in Dublin is D4, home to the majority of the upper-middle-class population. Once a farmland with small villages, D4 went through major developments in the 18th and 19th centuries. In 1815, the arrival of the Royal Dublin Society marked the neighbourhood’s growing significance. Today, D4, one of the top places to stay in Dublin, is adorned with modern apartments while still retaining its Georgian houses. Comprised of Ballsbridge, Sandymount, and Donnybrook, this is one of the best neighbourhoods to stay in Dublin for students. 

In D4, you will never run out of things to explore. You can begin by discovering Irish art and history from the prehistoric era to the 20th century at the National Museum of Ireland. Marvel at a vast collection of manuscripts, rare books, and artefacts at Chester Beatty Library. You can catch a game at the scenic Ireland's national rugby stadium, Aviva Stadium Tour or go to Ballsbridge Racecourse to witness a thrilling horse racing event. If nature is what you love, Herbert Park and Ringsend Park offer a serene green space for you to relax. You can also visit Hell Tide and Mystery Chests.  

Moreover, this D4, one of the best Dublin neighbourhoods, has a refined accent, which you can differentiate from the accents you'll hear across Dublin. The area is undoubtedly one of the best places to stay in Dublin Ireland, especially Point Campus.  

7. Ranelagh

Cost of Living: €1,566/month
Nearby Universities: National College of Ireland, Trinity College
Crime Rate: Low
Famous For: Ranelagh Gardens, Teeling Whiskey Distillery 
Total Population: 2,290
Popular Pubs: Smyth’s Pub, The Hill Pub, & TapHouse
Popular Restaurants: Cinnamon Ranelagh, Dillinger’s, & Gigi

Charming streets, magnificent architecture, and lively food scene – this is Ranelagh, one of the best places to live in Dublin, for you. Home to a mix of natives and students, Ranelagh is located southeast of Portobello, and you can find the Grand Canal on the other side. Ranelagh has been attracting wealthy netizens since the 18th century. The decade saw the development of huge Georgian houses and villas fostering elegant living for its residents.

Ranelagh, one of the best neighbourhoods in Dublin to stay, features bustling streets lined with quaint cafés, bars, yoga studios, stores, and eateries. You may savour steak and grill selections available at The Butcher Grill. When living in Ranelagh, you cannot miss the Ranelagh Village Market for fresh produce and unique crafts. Stroll down the streets and discover a treasure trove of independent shops and vintage clothing stores or catch a movie at the Stella Cinema, a beautifully restored art deco cinema offering mainstream and independent films.

With fights over Irish sovereignty dating back to the 17th century, Ranelagh's historical significance and upscale atmosphere contribute to its allure. You would be surprised to know that Ranalegh is one of the best areas to stay in Dublin and the first suburb in the city. While you are busy exploring old-school architecture, don’t forget to check out Go Britanya Dublin Residence, an affordable accommodation in the best area to stay in Dublin Ireland.

8. North Inner City

Cost of Living: €1,298/month
Nearby Universities: University College Dublin, Trinity College
Crime Rate: High
Famous For: National Museum of Ireland, The Custom House  
Total Population: 6,749
Popular Pubs: The Celt & The James Connolly Pub
Popular Restaurants: The Vintage Kitchen, Bar Italia Ristorante, & The Woollen Mills

Situated in a wide area in the D1 district, north of the Liffey River in the central city centre, North Inner City is one of the best Dublin neighbourhoods. If you want to live in the middle of all the action and hustle in the city, North Inner City and City Central South are the best places to stay in Dublin Ireland. Comparatively, North Inner City is affordable and filled with working-class people. 

You will find a range of things to do in Dublin. You can visit The Irish Emigration Museum to learn about the Irish diaspora through interactive exhibits. Enjoy a colourful evening at Dublin's oldest pubs, like The Brazen Head (founded in 1198!) and The Palace Bar. Also, explore the street art scene and discover murals adorning buildings in this best area to live in Dublin Ireland. Learn about the history of Irish whiskey and the Jameson brand at the Bow Street distillery or visit the Dublin Zoo, which is home to over 600 animals from around the world. 

North Inner City is affordable compared to other central areas, and the vicinity has an energetic vibe. Nevertheless, it is one of the best places to stay in Dublin Ireland, and the top student accommodation options include Dorset Point and North Circular Road (447). 

9. Phibsborough

Cost of Living: €1,500/month
Nearby Universities: Dublin City University & Trinity College Dublin
Crime Rate: Low
Famous For: Phoenix Park, one of the largest enclosed public parks in Europe 
Total Population: 15,000
Popular Pubs: The Bohemian Pub & McGowans of Phibsboro
Popular Restaurants: The Bald Eagle Beer & Food co. & The Back Page

Phibsborough is a commercial and residential neighbourhood, making it one of the best places to live in Dublin. What was once a rural area on the outskirts of Dublin is now an urban gem. The area got its name from the Phipps family who owned land in this area in the 17th century. The area started developing in the 19th century after the construction of the Royal Canal in the early 1800s. Defined by Victorian red brick architecture, Phibsborough offers modern cafés and restaurants beside long-standing pubs and chip shops. 

If you are a history buff, you must discover literary history at the Dublin Writers Museum and observe the Custom House's stunning architecture. Enjoy the area’s vibrant nightlife at quirky bars, such as The Back Page, where you can eat pizza, play board games, or attend a theme night. Immerse yourself in local life by visiting Moore Street's bustling markets and take a stroll along the gorgeous banks of Liffey. Phizzfest presents live theatre and music at various venues throughout the year. Plus, you can explore the iconic Guinness Storehouse to learn about Ireland's brewing heritage, then stroll through the historic cobbled streets of Temple Bar. 

All these factors make Phibosborough one of the best areas to stay in Dublin for students. Highfield House is an affordable student accommodation option in the neighbourhood that offers a great experience.

10. Dundrum

Cost of Living: €2,420/month
Nearby Universities: Dundrum College of Further Education & University College Dublin
Crime Rate: Low
Famous For: Ruins of Norman Castle
Total Population: 7,638
Popular Pubs: Dundrum House, Brickyard Gastropub, & PYE
Popular Restaurants: Mad Egg Dundrum, Zizzi, & Siam Thai Restaurant

Dundrum isn't in the city centre, yet it's one of the best neighbourhoods to stay in Dublin for families and students. Dundrum is derived from the Irish ‘Dun Droma,’ meaning fort of the ridge.’ It indicates its early significance as a fortified settlement. In the 12th century during the Norman invasion of Ireland, Dundrum became the focal point of military activity. It was in the 18th and 19th centuries when Dundrum, the best area to stay in Dublin Ireland, saw major developments. 

You can explore so much in Dundrum, the best area in Dublin to live. The largest mall in Ireland, Dundrum Town Centre, offers a variety of shops and restaurants. You can also explore the serene Dundrum Castle and its beautiful parklands. At Airfield Estate, take advantage of urban retreats and see live performances at Dundrum's Mill Theatre. Full of vibrant nightlife and a young population, Dundrum is one of the best places to live in Dublin to explore a friendly atmosphere. Challenge your friends to a fun round of mini-golf at Rainforest Adventure Golf.  

Nearly 40% of the population is aged 18 to 34; hence, it is never a challenge to find accommodation here. You can consider James Street, a top-rated student accommodation with a peaceful and charming atmosphere in one of the best places to stay in Dublin Ireland. 

11. City Centre South

Cost of Living: €1,800/month
Nearby Universities: Dublin Institute of Technology & University College Dublin
Crime Rate: High
Famous For: St. Stephen’s Green, Dublin Castle
Total Population: NA
Popular Pubs: Sheehans Pub, The Ginger Man, & The Temple Bar Pub
Popular Restaurants: Yamamori South City & The Millstone Restaurant

City Centre South sits below the River Liffey in Dublin's heart. The area’s history goes back to the Viking settlement established in the 9th century. The Liberties, part of the City Centre South, was renowned for its semi-autonomous status granted by the royal charters. This helped the area to flourish as a hub of industry and commerce. This is one of the best places to live in Dublin for students as it is a vibrant area pulsating with youth and unparalleled experiences. From trendy pubs to exciting nightlife, it's all on your doorstep, minus the hefty city centre price tag! 

The area is surrounded by Insta-worthy cafes and restaurants. When staying here, make a note to visit the famous Brother Hubbard or The Fumbally. Hit up Powerscourt Centre, a converted shopping mall with quirky boutiques and vintage finds. Score rare records at Tower Records or indulge in new releases at Golden Disc. You can even rent a kayak or take a stand-up paddleboard tour for a chill afternoon on the Grand Canal or explore the Irish Rock N' Roll Museum for a unique cultural experience.

City Centre South may be one of the well-populated areas, but it is also one of the best places to stay in Dublin Ireland. The area features a range of Victorian Terraced houses, Edwardian houses, and modern apartments. You can find many options for Dublin student accommodation; however, Yugo New Mill stands out in the crowd due to its amenities and location. 

Now that you have a good idea of where to live in Dublin, what are you waiting for? With the list of the best places to live in Dublin at your disposal, you should also consider the cost of living in Dublin. While moving from one place to another seems nerve-wracking, don’t worry as long as you have the moving-in checklist for students with you. Gather information about the best places to live in Dublin, decide whether the suburb meets your lifestyle needs, and then make a move.