Ireland isn’t just about Dublin and its sky-high rents. During my recent trip across the country, I discovered there’s so much more to this incredible island. Take Galway, where I spent evenings swaying to live music in cozy pubs and mornings watching fishing boats roll into the harbor. The whole city has this infectious energy that just pulls you in, especially in the Latin Quarter, where street musicians make every walk feel magical.
I’ve done the research to find the best places in Ireland where you can actually afford to live while soaking in all that famous Irish charm. From buzzing university towns to gorgeous coastal communities, these 11 spots offer everything you’re dreaming of without emptying your bank account. Plus, the Guinness really does taste better here!
Best Places to Live in Ireland for Expats
Looking to live in Ireland as an expat? Consider Cork, a vibrant city known for its rich culture and friendly locals. Explore Galway, famous for its lively arts scene and coastal charm. Experience Limerick, offering a blend of history, modern amenities, and a welcoming community. For a quieter lifestyle, Waterford provides beautiful scenery and a strong sense of heritage. Whether you prefer a bustling city or a peaceful town, these are some of the best places for expats in Ireland.
- Best for vibrant city life: Cork
- Best for arts and culture: Galway
- Best for history and modernity: Limerick
- Best for natural beauty: County Kerry
- Best for historic charm: Waterford
- Best for urban renewal: Belfast
- Best for food enthusiasts: Kinsale
- Best for scenic landscapes: Killarney
- Best for rural tranquility: County Mayo
- Best for community spirit: Westport
- Best for a balanced lifestyle: Kenmare
- Best for coastal living: Skerries
1. Cork
Lively, historic, and full of character, Cork is often called the “Real Capital of Ireland” by locals—and for good reason. Nestled along the River Lee, this city blends rich history with a vibrant, modern energy. From charming quays and bridges to colorful streets lined with cafés, Cork is a place that invites you to explore.
Start your day at the famous English Market, where vendors have been selling fresh produce and artisan goods for centuries. Then, wander up to St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral, a stunning Gothic masterpiece. The city’s lively arts and music scene thrives in venues like the Triskel Arts Centre, while nature lovers can escape to the rolling hills of Blarney just outside town.
With its welcoming atmosphere, top-tier universities, and easy access to Ireland’s scenic coastline, Cork isn’t just a great place to visit—it’s a fantastic place to call home.
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2. Galway
Few places capture the spirit of Ireland quite like Galway. This west coast gem is known for its colorful streets, thriving arts scene, and laid-back vibe. Whether you’re sipping coffee in the Latin Quarter or catching live music in a cozy pub, Galway feels like a place where life moves at just the right pace.
The city’s cultural heartbeat is undeniable. Festivals like the Galway International Arts Festival and Oyster Festival keep the energy high year-round, while the bustling Eyre Square is always alive with street performers. Beyond the city, nature lovers can take day trips to the Cliffs of Moher, Connemara National Park, or the Aran Islands—all within easy reach.
With its friendly locals, rich history, and coastal beauty, Galway strikes the perfect balance between city life and nature. It’s no wonder so many people fall in love with this charming seaside city.
3. Limerick
Sitting proudly on the River Shannon, Limerick is a city where history and modern living intertwine. It’s home to King John’s Castle, a medieval fortress with breathtaking views, but also to a thriving contemporary arts scene, lively pubs, and a growing tech industry.
The city is packed with cultural hotspots, from the Hunt Museum—which houses treasures from Ireland’s past—to the bustling Milk Market, where you can grab fresh local produce and artisan goods. If you’re into sports, Thomond Park is the place to be, where Limerick’s legendary rugby team fuels the city’s passion.
Limerick offers affordable housing, excellent schools, and a strong job market, making it a solid choice for families and young professionals alike. For those looking for a city that’s equal parts history, culture, and opportunity, Limerick is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
4. County Kerry
If you dream of living in a place where rugged landscapes meet postcard-perfect villages, County Kerry is hard to beat. This southwestern county is home to some of Ireland’s most breathtaking scenery, from the Ring of Kerry to the Dingle Peninsula.
Outdoor lovers will find endless adventures—hiking in Killarney National Park, exploring the Gap of Dunloe, or taking in the dramatic cliffs along the Wild Atlantic Way. The towns here, like Killarney and Dingle, are filled with quaint pubs, welcoming locals, and a strong sense of Irish tradition.
Despite its popularity with tourists, Kerry still offers a peaceful, community-driven lifestyle. Whether you want to be near bustling Killarney or tucked away in a coastal village, Kerry has a spot for you. For those who crave natural beauty and small-town charm, this county is nothing short of magical.
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5. Waterford
As Ireland’s oldest city, Waterford is steeped in history yet buzzing with modern energy. Originally founded by the Vikings in 914 AD, this coastal city has managed to blend its ancient past with a thriving present, making it a fascinating place to live.
Stroll through the Viking Triangle, where medieval landmarks like Reginald’s Tower stand alongside trendy cafés, museums, and galleries. Waterford is also home to the world-famous Waterford Crystal, where master craftsmen continue a tradition dating back centuries. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Waterford Greenway offers a scenic cycling and walking trail, winding past rolling countryside, old railway tunnels, and breathtaking coastal views.
Beyond its rich history, Waterford boasts a strong job market, affordable housing, and a vibrant arts scene. The city’s waterfront, lined with shops and restaurants, adds to its appeal, making Waterford a top choice for those seeking culture, opportunity, and coastal charm.
6. Kinsale
On the southern coast of County Cork, Kinsale is a feast for the senses—literally. Known as Ireland’s gourmet capital, this harbor town blends rich history, incredible food, and a relaxed seaside lifestyle.
Strolling through Kinsale’s colorful streets, you’ll find award-winning restaurants, lively pubs, and artisan shops around every corner. Fishy Fishy is a must for seafood lovers, while the town’s annual Gourmet Festival draws foodies from all over. History buffs can explore Charles Fort, a 17th-century fortress with jaw-dropping ocean views, or wander the old streets where echoes of the Battle of Kinsale still linger.
Beyond the food and history, Kinsale’s friendly community, vibrant arts scene, and coastal beauty make it an unbeatable place to call home. If a laid-back, food-filled life by the sea sounds like your dream, Kinsale is waiting for you.
7. Killarney
If there’s one place that captures the raw beauty of Ireland, it’s Killarney. Sitting on the edge of Killarney National Park, this County Kerry gem is surrounded by ancient woodlands, misty mountains, and serene lakes.
One day here might start with a sunrise kayak on Lough Leane, followed by a hike through the Gap of Dunloe, and end in a cozy pub, tapping your foot to live trad music. The town’s welcoming energy, thriving tourism industry, and well-preserved historic sites like Muckross House make it more than just a scenic escape.
Killarney is as much about community as it is about adventure. Locals take pride in their town, and newcomers are quickly embraced. If waking up to postcard-perfect views and endless outdoor adventures sounds like your kind of life, Killarney will feel like home in no time.
8. County Mayo
Wild, rugged, and breathtakingly beautiful—County Mayo is where Ireland’s raw landscapes meet a warm, welcoming way of life. Nestled in Western Ireland, it offers a slower, more peaceful pace without feeling disconnected.
The Wild Atlantic Way winds right through Mayo, delivering some of Ireland’s most stunning sights. Explore Achill Island’s dramatic cliffs, sink your toes into Keem Bay’s white-sand beaches, or take on the legendary Croagh Patrick pilgrimage hike. Meanwhile, towns like Westport and Castlebar buzz with live music, local markets, and a strong sense of community.
Mayo isn’t just about the scenery—it’s about the lifestyle. Here, you can swap city stress for fresh ocean air, lively village pubs, and endless outdoor adventures. Whether you’re looking to unplug or plant roots somewhere special, Mayo is a place where life feels fuller, calmer, and truly connected to nature.
9. Westport
Westport is the kind of place that instantly feels like home. Nestled along Clew Bay in County Mayo, this lively town blends small-town warmth with a big love for the outdoors.
Stroll along the Carrowbeg River, where pastel-colored shopfronts house independent cafés, boutiques, and cozy pubs that fill the air with live traditional music. If you love the outdoors, you’ll never run out of things to do. Climb Croagh Patrick, cycle the scenic Great Western Greenway, or take a boat trip to Clare Island—Westport’s natural beauty is just as inviting as its people.
But what really makes Westport stand out? The sense of community. Festivals, farmers’ markets, and friendly neighbors make it more than just a pretty place—it’s a town where people genuinely look out for each other. If you want charm, adventure, and a place that feels like one big welcome, Westport could be what you’re looking for.
10. Kenmare
Tucked between the Ring of Kerry and the Beara Peninsula, Kenmare is a picture-perfect town that feels like a peaceful escape from the rest of the world. But don’t be fooled—this little gem is packed with life, culture, and beauty.
Kenmare’s waterfront setting and surrounding mountains make it a dream for outdoor lovers. Spend your mornings hiking, kayaking, or taking scenic drives, then wind down with fresh seafood at a local bistro or a pint in a lively pub. The town’s food scene is a hidden treasure, with gourmet restaurants and artisanal producers making every meal an experience.
The pace here is slower, but in the best way possible. People take the time to chat, enjoy the views, and embrace a life that’s all about quality over speed. If you’re after scenic beauty, friendly faces, and a town that knows how to slow things down, Kenmare is an easy choice.
11. Skerries
Wrapping up this list is Skerries, a seaside town in County Dublin that feels like a breath of fresh air. Located just 30 minutes from the capital, it offers the best of coastal living without sacrificing city convenience.
Skerries is all about the waterfront. You’ll find sandy beaches, scenic coastal walks, and the charming Skerries Mills, where old windmills still turn with the breeze. The harbor is lined with seafood restaurants and cafés, perfect for a relaxed weekend vibe. And if you love community spirit, this town delivers—seasonal festivals, sailing clubs, and a tight-knit, welcoming crowd make it easy to feel at home.
Living in Skerries means waking up to ocean views, enjoying fresh sea air, and never being too far from the action. Whether you’re after a laid-back beach lifestyle or an easy commute to Dublin, Skerries proves that coastal living doesn’t mean giving up convenience.
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