15 Cheapest Places To Live In Ireland In 2025

People think of living in Ireland but then they ponder upon it due to the high cost they might have to pay. Many consider Ireland an ideal vacation destination owing to its stunning scenery, fascinating history, and lively culture. But don’t worry, relocating to this stunning nation means several cheap places to live in Ireland. Whether you're a student, a young professional, or a retiree, these towns and cities offer the cheapest rent in Ireland without compromising quality. Let's dive in and discover the hidden gems across the Emerald Isle!

Cheapest Places to Live in Ireland

There are various affordable cities in Ireland. The country is filled with them, and to make it easy for you, we have made the list to determine the cheapest place to live in Ireland!

1. Dublin

Estimated living cost in Dublin: €1000 - €1500/month (without rent)

Best known for: Enjoy Proximity to the Capital

Ireland's energetic capital, Dublin, is well known for its busy city life and professional prospects. Living in student accommodation in Dublin may be expensive, though; luckily, there are less expensive options available in Dublin's surrounding suburbs, which allow easy access to the city centre without the astronomical prices. Thus, it's considered in this list of the cheapest places to live in Ireland. Areas like Swords, Tallaght, and Blanchardstown offer a range of housing options at more affordable rates, making the surrounding areas of Dublin one of the cheapest cities in Ireland. One of the best student accommodations in Dublin is James Street and is one that is not heavy on your pockets either!

Famous Landmarks:

• Guinness Storehouse
• St Patrick's Cathedral 
• Phoenix Park
• The book of Kelly & Old Library
• Christ Church Cathedral

2. Cork

Estimated living cost in Cork: €1,250 to €1,900/month (without rent)

Best known for: A City of Charm and Affordability

Cork is Ireland's second-largest city and is known for its rich history, green landscapes, and lively arts scene and it is, without a doubt, one of the cheapest places in Ireland to live. The cost of living in Cork is generally lower than that in Dublin, making it a much better option for people in search of the cheapest place to live in Ireland. The city has a lot of things to do, including excellent restaurants offering some of the best food, cultural attractions signifying its history, and educational institutions, making it a popular choice for families and young professionals. You can try out Greenes restaurants for modern European cuisine and Strasbourg Goose Restaurant for a true Irish platter. Check out Coleman Court as it is one of the best and most affordable student accommodation in Cork.

Famous Landmarks:

1. The English Market
2. Cork City Gaol
3. Crawford Art Gallery
4. Blarney Castle & Gardens
5. Saint Fin Barre's Cathedral 

“While cities like Cork and Dublin are considered expensive, living on the outskirts can actually be quite cost-effective and affordable.”

3. Galway

Estimated living cost in Galway: €1,200 - €1,850/month (without rent)

Best known for: Beauty, Culture, and Budget-Friendly Living

One can find a host of affordable student accommodations in Galway, making this dynamic city in western Ireland one of the cheapest cities to live in Ireland. It is well-known for its vivid festivals, breathtaking scenery, and live music scene. In comparison to other Irish cities, Galway is still a reasonably priced area to live in despite its popularity. The city is a great option for anyone looking for the cheapest rent in Ireland because it provides a wealth of cultural experience, a bustling food scene, and quick access to the breathtaking Connemara region. It is indeed one of the cheapest places to live in Ireland. Look at Galway Central as one of the most affordable student accommodations in Galway.

Famous Landmarks:

1. Eyer Square
2. Galway Cathedral
3. Galway City Museum
4. Spanish Arch
5. The Latin Quarter

4. Limerick

Estimated living cost in Limerick: €800 - €1000 (without rent)

Best known for: History, Education, and Cost-Effective Living

The city has a wide range of budget-friendly home options in addition to an increasing number of employment opportunities in industries like healthcare and technology. Limerick is a desirable option for students in search of an affordable education and a high standard of living because it is home to many prominent higher education institutions. Thus, it is a good contender for the title of the cheapest place to live in Ireland.

Famous Landmarks:

1. King John's Castle
2. The Milk Market
3. The Hunt Museum 
4. Thomond Park
5. Saint Mary's Cathedral

5. Waterford

Estimated living cost in Waterford: €1,050- €1600/month (without rent)

Best known for: Coastal Living at an Affordable Price

Waterford, located in southeast Ireland, is a charming city with a rich Viking history and a vibrant arts community. This coastal gem makes it among the list of cheap places to live in Ireland. Everything is affordable, from apartments to family homes, making it an attractive destination for individuals or families on a budget. Waterford's natural beauty, cultural attractions, and friendly community create an ideal environment for an affordable and fulfilling life. This makes Waterford a contender for the cheapest place to live in Ireland!

Famous Landmarks:

1. Waterford Treasure
2. House of Waterford Crystal
3. Reginald Tower
4. St. Patrick's Gateway Centre
5. The Apple Market

6. Sligo

Estimated living cost in Sligo: €1100 - €1300

Best known for: Affordable Living amidst Stunning Scenery

Sligo has one of the cheapest rent in Ireland, and you should definitely consider this one as it is tucked away between the mountains and the Atlantic Ocean. It links to the well-known poet W.B. Yeats, along with its rough and beautiful natural surroundings. This little town has a bustling art scene, a variety of outdoor activities, and cultural events, all within a lovely environment for a reasonable price. Sligo can be the ideal option for those looking for the cheapest places to live in Ireland if you want to make a home out of its peaceful atmosphere.

Famous Landmarks:

1. Sligo Abbey
2. Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery
3. The Model. Home of the Niland Collection
4. Yeats Society Sligo
5. Rosses Point

7. Tralee

Estimated living cost in Tralee: €1300 - €1500

Best known for: Affordable Living in the Kingdom of Kerry

Tralee, located in County Kerry, offers a taste of Ireland's enchanting countryside at an affordable price, making it one of the cheapest cities in Ireland. This vibrant town hosts the famous Rose of Tralee festival and provides a high quality of life with affordable housing options and excellent amenities. Tralee's proximity to the stunning Kerry coastline and its welcoming community make it an appealing choice for those seeking affordability and natural beauty. You can even explore the aqua safaris and cycling areas at the cheapest place to live in Ireland, Tralee.

Famous Landmarks:

1. Jerry County Museum
2. Tralee Wetlands Eco & Activity Park
3. Aqua Dome
4. Tralee Bay Wetlands Eco & Activity Park
5. Muckross House

8. Drogheda

Estimated living cost in Drogheda: €1400 - €1600

Best known for: History, Culture, and Budget-Friendly Living

Drogheda, situated on the banks of the River Boyne, is one of Ireland's oldest towns, steeped in history and culture. Despite its historical significance, Drogheda offers its residents affordable living and a range of amenities. The town boasts excellent transport links to Dublin and Belfast, making it an ideal location for commuters seeking an affordable home outside the bustling city centres, making Drogheda a competitor for the cheapest places to live in Ireland. 

Famous Landmarks:

1. Highlanes Gallery
2. The TLT
3. Millmount Museum
4. St. Peter's Parish, Drogheda
5. Magdalene Tower

9. Carlow

Estimated living cost in Carlow: €1500 - €1800 (without rent)

Best known for: Affordable Living in the Heart of Ireland

Carlow is among the cheapest cities in Ireland. It is a small town in southeast Ireland that offers affordable living in a picturesque setting. Surrounded by lush green countryside and historic sites, Carlow provides its residents with a peaceful and affordable lifestyle. The town offers a range of amenities, including excellent schools, shopping centres, and recreational facilities, making it an attractive choice for families and individuals looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. It is truly an attractive prospect, considering it is one of the cheapest places to live in Ireland and is one of the most accessible places in the country.

Famous Landmarks:

1. Delta Sensory Gardens
2. Carlow County Museum
3. Brownshill Portal Tomb
4. Netwatch Cullen Park
5. Brownshill Portal Tomb (Dolmen)

10. Wexford

Estimated living cost in Wexford: €1700 - €2000 (without rent)

Best known for: Coastal Living on a Budget

Wexford, located on Ireland's sunny southeast coast, offers a combination of the cheapest cities to live in Ireland, natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage. The town boasts a thriving arts scene, vibrant festivals, and stunning beaches. With its affordable housing options and excellent quality of life, Wexford attracts individuals and families seeking a coastal lifestyle without breaking the bank, making it one of the cheapest places to live in Ireland.

Famous Landmarks:

1. Irish National Heritage Park
2. Hook Lighthouse
3. Selskar Abbey
4. National Opera House
5. Wexford Arts Centre

“You can make the best out of your affordable stays by exploring local attractions and cuisine.”

11. Athlone

Estimated living cost in Athlone: €1700 - €2000 (without rent)

Best known for: Affordable Living at the Heart of Ireland

Athlone, located in the Midlands region of Ireland, offers affordable living in a central location. Situated on the banks of the River Shannon, It is known for its historical significance and charming atmosphere, making it a beautiful and affordable place to live in Ireland. The town provides a range of housing options at more affordable prices than larger cities. With its vibrant community, picturesque scenery, and convenient access to major road networks, Athlone is an excellent choice as the cheapest place to live in Ireland.

Famous Landmarks:

1. Sean's bar
2. Fernhill Garden Center
3. Laun Gallery
4. Adamson Castle
5. Dean Crowe Theatre

12. Ennis

Estimated living cost in Ennis: €1800 - €2100 (without rent)

Best known for: Budget-Friendly Living in County Clare

Ennis, nestled in County Clare, combines affordability with a rich cultural heritage. This charming market town offers a variety of affordable housing options and a welcoming community. What makes it an attractive place to live while still being the cheapest city to live in Ireland? Ennis is renowned for its traditional music scene, lively festivals, and proximity to stunning natural attractions like the Cliffs of Moher. With its affordable cost of living and a strong sense of community, Ennis is an appealing destination for those seeking a balanced and budget-friendly lifestyle in one of the cheapest places to live in Ireland.

Famous Landmarks:

1. Clare Museum
2. Ennis Friary
3. Clare Abbey
4. Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul
5. Daniel O'Connell Monument

13. Clare

Estimated living cost in Clare: €981.9 (without rent)

Best Known for: The Burren, the coastline

Clare consists of rural areas and small towns, which generally have lower living costs compared to urban areas. So, everyday expenses such as groceries, transportation, and healthcare are more affordable, making it a contender for the cheapest city in Ireland. This allows everyone to set their budgets and not miss out on anything. Apart from them, Clare also has affordable accommodation options. Rent and property prices tend to be lower, making it easier for residents to find the cheapest rent in Ireland. Clare is a scenic place to live, and with that, it is one of the cheapest places to live in Ireland. 

Famous Landmarks:

1. Dromoland Castle Hotel
2. Bunratty Castle & Folk Park
3. Poulnabrone Dolmen
4. Loop Head Lighthouse
5. Shannon Heritage

14. Tipperary

Estimated living cost in Tipperary: €982.3 (without rent)

Best Known for: Horse breeding industry

Due to its comparatively lower cost of living when compared to big urban centres like Dublin or Cork, Tipperary is frequently on the list of cheap places to live in Ireland. This affordability is a result of several factors, such as more reasonably priced housing, cheaper utility bills, and generally lower pricing for products and services. Furthermore, Tipperary's rural and smaller town areas give locals the chance to live more affordably while still having access to all the amenities they need for a high standard of living. Tipperary is also touted by most natives for being one of the cheapest cities to live in Ireland.

Famous Landmarks:

1. Rock of Cashel
2. Cahir Castle
3. Leap Castle, Ireland
4. Mitchelstown Cave
5. Swiss Cottage

15. Monaghan

Estimated living cost in Monaghan: €981.9 (Without rent)

Best Known for: Drumlin County

Monaghan is one of the cheapest places to live in Ireland and more affordable than most metropolitan locations. It is regarded as one of the most affordable cities in Ireland. The cost of housing is often lower, and there are other options available, such as cheaper homes for purchase and the cheapest rent in Ireland for properties. Furthermore, regular costs like groceries, utilities, and transportation are typically less expensive in Monaghan, making it one of the cheapest places to rent in Ireland. This affordability, along with the beautiful scenery and local facilities, makes Monaghan a desirable choice for individuals looking for the cheapest place to live in Ireland.

Famous Landmarks:

1. Monaghan County Museum
2. A Poc Fada
3. Peter's Lake
4. Rossmore Monument
5. Glaslough Alpacas‍

Affordable Student Accommodation in Ireland

Finding the cheapest student accommodation in Ireland is not a difficult task. Each city has its special character and charm. When you move to Ireland, you'll have an affordable choice for everyone, regardless of your preferences for the lively city life, a peaceful and quiet countryside, or an option of living by the sea. A warm Irish welcome, good living standards, and affordable housing can be found everywhere, from the Dublin suburbs to the picturesque towns of Cork, Galway, Limerick, and beyond.
Leap and discover the cheapest places to live in Ireland, where some incredible hikes are also accessible and where you can create a fulfilling and affordable life in the heart of the Emerald Isle. Going to another city can be a great experience, here's a travel guide for Ireland which will help you with your shift to this wonderful place with some of the most affordable places to live in Ireland!