10 Best Places to Live in Ireland: Discover the Top Irish Cities!

Home to the picturesque scenery, beautiful beaches, local cuisines, and the warmth that its people offer, Ireland could be your next home. But, deciding which place to choose for settling up could be a difficult task, especially when you have not one but many best places to live in Ireland. Without further ado, let’s take a look at some of the best cities to live in Ireland. 

10 Best Places to Live in Ireland

Every year, Ireland attracts thousands of students who make it their permanent home. There are several reasons to study in Ireland for students who choose it as their top choice. It is not just known for its incomparable beauty and amazing lifestyle but also for its excellent education system. If you are travelling to Ireland, then you will get the chance to experience the ravishing Irish culture, along with the vibrant festivals in Ireland. With a great educational system and modern infrastructure system, it’s difficult to choose the best area to live in Ireland. We have compiled a list of the best places to live in Ireland that will help you in choosing your next destination for your stay. 

1. Dublin

Population: 592,000
Cost of Living: €1,095/person
Nearby Universities: University College Dublin & Dublin Business School
Tourist Attractions: Guinness Storehouse, Dublin Castle, & EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum
Popular Neighbourhoods: Stoney Batter, North Inner City, & Portobello

Dublin, the capital and cultural heart of Ireland, offers a dynamic urban lifestyle with a rich history, a thriving arts scene, and diverse job opportunities. The city’s history goes back to the 4th century when the first known settlement was built in the Cornmarket of the city centre. It was after the Anglo-Norman invasion in 1170 that Dublin became the capital of Ireland. One of the best places to live in Ireland, Dublin is known for its diverse cuisine like Irish beef stew, wild salmon, and whiskey. Students flock to areas like Temple Bar, known for its lively pubs and music scene.   

2. Cork

Population: 222,000
Cost of Living: €1000/person
Nearby Universities: University College Cork, Cork Institute of Technology, & Crawford College of Art and Design
Tourist Attractions: Blarney Castle & Gardens, Blarney Stone, & The English Market
Popular Neighbourhoods: Blackrock, Douglas, & Bishopstown

Another one of the top cities in Ireland is the European capital of culture, Cork, located in the southern part of the nation. The city is known for its rich history, beautiful scenery, and lively arts that make the city more lively & beautiful. The city’s rich history dates back to its establishment in the 6th century as a monastic settlement. It is also called the ‘Rebel City’  for its role in Ireland’s fight for independence. Students studying here must visit the English Market which offers a variety of local produce and gourmet food. Historical sites like Blarney Castle and beautiful coastal areas make Cork an attractive destination for students. Food lovers can enjoy the delicious dishes like drisheen and spiced beef here.

3. Galway

Population: 277,737
Cost of Living: €881/person
Nearby Universities: University of Galway & ATU Galway City
Tourist Attractions: Eyre Square, Galway Cathedral, & Spanish Arch
Popular Neighbourhoods: Salthill, College Road, & Renmore

Located on the west coast of Ireland, Galway is known for its beautiful and picturesque landscapes that make it on our list of the most beautiful places in Ireland. Known as the ‘Cultural Heart of Ireland,’ Galway was founded in the 13th century. Arts, music, and a vibrant festival scene are what the city is known for. Students will enjoy the renowned Galway International Arts Festival and the Galway Races here. The bustling streets filled with buskers, cosy cafes, and lively pubs are sure to keep you entertained. Plus, the city’s rich local seafood, including Galway Oysters, is a haven for food lovers. A close-knit community and scenic coastal surroundings make it one of the best cities in Ireland to live in.

4. Kinsale

Population: 5000
Cost of Living: €995.1/person
Nearby Universities: Kinsale College & University College Cork
Tourist Attractions: Charles Fort, The Lusitania Museum, & Old Head Signal Tower
Popular Neighbourhoods: Ballynacubby, Sleveen, & Dromderrig

With a high quality of life, strong community feeling, and lively culture, Kinsale has made it to our list of one of the best places to live in Ireland. A historic gem with roots tracing back to the Norman period in the 12th century, Kinsale is known for as the ‘Gourmet Capital of Ireland.’ The city offers a rich culinary scene with cuisines like fresh fish chowder and mussels. Students coming here will find a peaceful yet enriching atmosphere, with opportunities for sailing, hiking, and exploring its arts scene. Kinsale is undoubtedly one of the best areas to live in Dublin Ireland.

5. Westport

Population: 6000
Cost of Living: €3320/person
Nearby Universities: Fairfield University & CT State Community College
Tourist Attractions: Westport House & Westport Town Hall Theatre
Popular Neighbourhoods: Saugatuck Island, Downtown Westport, & Greens Farms

One of the friendliest and best places to live in Ireland is the beautiful city of Westport. Located on the Mayo Coastline, Westport offers some of the most mesmerising landscapes, friendly people, and outstanding culture where you will find a mix of everything. Founded in the 18th century by the Browne family, the city is a hub for outdoor activities. You can enjoy the Great Western Greenway for cycling and Croagh Patrick for hiking. Coming to the culinary scene of Westport, you will find local favourites, including lamb stew and fresh Atlantic seafood. Another reason why Westport is considered one of the good places to live in Ireland for its affordable cost of living.   

6. Limerick

Population: 61,000
Cost of Living: €2,005/person
Nearby Universities: University of Limerick & Mount St. Joseph
Tourist Attractions: King John’s Castle, The Milk Market, & The Hunt Museum
Popular Neighbourhoods: Castletroy, Citywest, & Limerick City Centre

Founded by the Vikings in the 9th century, Limerick is situated on the River Shannon. One of the top cities in Ireland, Limerick is famous for its affordability, cultural diversity, and heritage. The city’s modern identity is shaped by its robust educational presence, with the University of Limerick being one of the major attractions for students. Limerick also has a lively food scene, and students will find many traditional dishes like Limerick ham here. A few famous spots that students can visit in the city are the Milk Market and the city centre adorned with lively pubs. The city’s blend of history, education, and culture makes it the best place to live in Ireland. 

7. Wicklow

Population: 155851
Cost of Living: €2,591/person
Nearby Universities: Trinity College Dublin & Maynooth University
Tourist Attractions: Powerscourt House & Gardens, Mount Usher Gardens, & Wicklow Mountains National Park
Popular Neighbourhoods: Russborough, Ticknock, & Avondale

The next best place to live in Ireland is the beautiful county of Wicklow, founded in the 12th century. Known as Ireland’s garden county, Wicklow attracts a huge number of students every year solely because of its natural beauty. Often called the ‘Garden of Ireland,’ it offers a tranquil lifestyle with easy access to Dublin. Wicklow, the best county to live in Ireland, also has a rich food scene, offering dishes like Wicklow lamb. The city is also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts as they get to do a lot like hiking or exploring the rugged coastline. It is definitely one of the nice places to live in Ireland.

8. Derry

Population: 237,000
Cost of Living: €1,250/person
Nearby Universities: Ulster University
Tourist Attractions: Derry Castle, Derry Cathedral, & National Museum
Popular Neighbourhoods: Loughshore, Orchard Park, & Donegal Road

Next on our list of the best places to live in Ireland is Derry, a city rich in history and culture. Established in the 6th century, Derry is well-known for its well-preserved 17th-century walls, offering a glimpse into the past. Students coming to Derry for their higher education will be part of numerous festivals and events like the Halloween celebrations. Plus, you will get to relish cuisines like Derry pies and seafood chowder, which are local favourites.      

9. Waterford

Population: 127,363
Cost of Living: €1,100/person
Nearby Universities: South East Technological University & Waterford Institute of Technology
Tourist Attractions: Waterford Crystal Palace, Regency Theatre, & Waterford Cathedral
Popular Neighbourhoods: The Curragh, Bishopstown, & Waterford City Centre

Founded by the Vikings in the 9th century, Waterford is the oldest and one of the best places to live in Ireland. Here, students can enjoy the city’s mediaeval heritage with attractions such as Reginald’s Tower and the Waterford Treasures Museum. The city is also renowned for its Waterfall Crystal production, which has been the hallmark of Waterford for centuries. One can also savour the delicious dishes like blaa (a type of bread roll). 

10. Laois

Population: 91,877
Cost of Living: €982/person
Nearby Universities: Portlaoise College & Maynooth University
Tourist Attractions: Heywood Gardens, Timahoe Round Tower, & Ballykilcavan Brewery
Popular Neighbourhoods: Glenbarrow, Derrybrock, & Chapel Hill

Last but not least, Laois is one of the best cities to live in Ireland, offering a peaceful, rural lifestyle. Laois is marked by ancient settlements and mediaeval castles, dating back to the early Christian period. One can take in the magnificent views from the Slieve Bloom Mountains. Laois, the best county to live in Ireland, provides a rich culinary scene with its traditional Irish dishes like the Irish stew. If you like a slower pace of life, this is the best place to live in Ireland for you!

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The best neighbourhoods to stay in Munich offer several student accommodations; however, if you book at the last minute, it is very difficult to get the ones you like at budget-friendly prices. This makes it very necessary to book your accommodation early as you can choose from a wide range of options! Amber will help you throughout the booking process! With amber, you can choose from an exclusive range of comfortable and chic student accommodations in Ireland at pocket-friendly prices!

This was our list of the best places to live in Ireland. These cities are known for its own unique value and quality that they offer to the residents. With some of the best cities to live in Ireland, one can choose the place of their interest as per their preferences. In fact, Ireland offers a great environment for students seeking education as well and attracts a large number of international students every year.