If you’re considering making the move to Ireland, you’re in for an exciting journey! Beyond its renowned beer culture and stunning Alpine landscapes, Ireland warmly welcomes foreigners seeking a fresh start. The opportunities to thrive here are vast, but have you weighed all the pros and cons? In this article, we’ll provide you with the essential information to help you decide if living and working in Ireland is the right choice for you. Let’s dive in!
5 Advantages and 5 Disadvantages of Living in Ireland
Advantages
1. Low Crime Rate
As reported by the Institute for Economics and Peace in 2019, Ireland ranked as the 8th safest country in Europe and the 12th safest globally in terms of citizen security and militarization, surpassing 151 other independent states and territories. While the security level has seen some decline in recent years, many expatriates have noted a noticeable difference in crime levels between Ireland and their home countries. The safest cities in Ireland are often found in counties like Longford, Roscommon, and Mayo, where crime rates are among the lowest in the country.
2. Multicultural Environment
Ireland is always on the move, attracting people from around the world. This dynamic environment provides you with the opportunity to meet new people constantly and make friends from all corners of the globe. The high level of diversity contributes to a culture of tolerance and acceptance, where people won’t judge you for your clothing or language skills.
3. Abundant Job Opportunities
Especially in the fields of hospitality, sales, and tourism. If you move to Ireland without a prior job offer, be prepared to start with unskilled jobs like receptionist, cleaner, waiter, etc., at least for the initial months. While these jobs might not align perfectly with your preferences, they can be a stepping stone to better opportunities in the future.
4. Competitive Salaries
Salaries in Ireland are generally attractive and allow for a comfortable lifestyle, depending on your spending habits. Despite the relatively high cost of living, the majority of Irish residents earn well above the minimum wage. However, remember that the cost of living can vary significantly depending on the location within Ireland.
5. Accessible Healthcare
In Ireland, healthcare is a right for both immigrants and natives. If your income isn’t sufficient to cover basic health insurance, you may qualify for a special medical card. While Ireland’s healthcare system offers substantial benefits, it’s important to note that waiting lists for certain medical procedures can be quite long.
### Disadvantages
1. Challenging Climate
Ireland’s weather is characterized by rain and frequent cloud cover, with rainfall days ranging from 150 to 225 per year. If you enjoy outdoor activities like running and swimming, Ireland’s climate might feel limiting, particularly during the summer when temperatures range from 15°C to 20°C.
2. High Cost of Living
While salaries may offset the high cost of living, those earning closer to the minimum wage can face significant limitations. Opting for cheaper cities or suburban areas and using alternatives to public transportation, like biking, can help manage expenses.
3. Difficult to Obtain Loans
Securing loans, especially mortgages, can be challenging for expatriates in Ireland due to perceived risks. Even Irish citizens often face difficulties obtaining these loans, so the process is even more complex for foreigners.
4. Expensive Fuel Costs
Fuel costs in Ireland are notably high, with prices often exceeding twice the rates found in the United States. While some may consider crossing the border to fill up on fuel, neighboring countries like the UK also have relatively high fuel prices.
5. Limited Full-Time Job Opportunities
Many unskilled job contracts in Ireland offer fewer than 30 hours per week, resulting in lower income. However, this offers ample room for growth, as you can use your spare time to look for opportunities that align with your skills and aspirations.
Where to Find Affordable Rentals?
While rentals in Ireland aren’t always budget-friendly, you can still find suitable options that fit your needs. Sharing a rental with others is a cost-effective approach, particularly if you plan to move with a partner, family, or friends. For larger groups, consider renting houses, which often offer more space and better lighting compared to apartments.
If you’re moving alone and your budget is tight, consider shared flats as an option. This not only helps you save money but also provides an opportunity to meet people from different cultures and practice your English.
Check out the table below for a range of monthly rental prices for shared properties (flats, apartments, or houses) in various Irish cities, from the most expensive to the most affordable:
|Rental Prices for Shared Properties in Ireland (Central Areas)|City|Monthly Rent|Offer Level|
|—|—|—|—|
|Dublin|€300 – €1,480|★★★★★|
|Galway|€340 – €857|★★★★☆|
|Cork|€320 – €930|★★★★★|
|Limerick|€350 – €650|★★★★☆|
|Waterford|€270 – €550|★★★★☆|
|Longford|€240 – €375|★★☆☆☆|
|Roscommon|€220 – €400|★☆☆☆☆|
|Castlebar (Co. Mayo)|€200 – €400|★★☆☆☆|
|Carrick-on-Shannon (Co. Leitrim)|€190 – €400|★☆☆☆☆|
How to Work in Ireland Without Knowing English?
If you don’t have a job offer in Ireland yet, consider taking a short course in your home country that enables you to work in various trades abroad, especially those where English is not a requirement. Strengthening your English skills before arriving will also be beneficial, as it will help you navigate daily life more comfortably.
As you gain experience in Ireland and build your social network, you can expect salary increases of over 60% after five years, depending on your field, city, and interpersonal skills. Companies also offer generous bonuses to high-performing employees, particularly those directly contributing to the organization’s revenue.
Remember that while challenges exist, Ireland’s vibrant multicultural environment, thriving job market, and accessible healthcare make it an attractive destination for those seeking a new adventure.
