Expat Housing Guide: Moving to Dublin IE

Get your personalised move plan →

Housing Market Overview

View Detailed Data →

Dublin's housing market is extremely competitive with demand significantly outpacing supply, resulting in consistently rising prices over the past decade. The market features a mix of Georgian and Victorian period homes, modern apartments, and suburban semi-detached houses. Rental prices rank among the highest in Europe, with a 2023 vacancy rate below 1%. The city attracts substantial international investment and corporate housing demand due to the presence of major tech companies and financial institutions. Recent government initiatives aim to increase housing supply, but the market remains challenging for newcomers with bidding wars common for both rentals and purchases.

Quick Stats

Housing Score
2.0 /5
Cost of Living
2.0 /5
Avg Rent (2BR)
$2,000-$2,500
Neighborhoods
15

Estimated Costs

One-Time Costs
$17,770
Monthly Costs
$1,975/mo

Sample Costs

Full Breakdown →
Shipping Container $3,500
Furnishing $5,000
Security Deposit $2,800
Electricity $130/mo
Water $0/mo
Heating $110/mo
Showing 6 of 38 costs — sign up to see all

Popular Neighborhoods

See All 3 →
Stoneybatter
Safety 4.0
Schools 3.0
Transport 4.0
2BR: $1,900–$2,700/mo
Drumcondra
Safety 4.0
Schools 4.0
Transport 4.0
2BR: $1,900–$2,600/mo
Smithfield
Safety 3.0
Schools 3.0
Transport 4.0
2BR: $2,000–$2,800/mo

Want to See Your Numbers?

Get personalized housing costs, timelines, and checklists for your family in Dublin.

Free to start. No credit card required.

Practical Tips

1
Focus house hunting in Clontarf and Raheny during winter months
there may be slightly less competition from students and summer corporate relocations
2
Set up instant Daft.ie alerts and check frequently
new listings appear continuously, and fast action is crucial in a competitive market
3
Join Facebook groups specific to Drumcondra and Phibsborough areas
many landlords in these areas prefer direct letting and post exclusively in community groups
4
Request viewing appointments for 10am on weekdays
estate agents often overbook afternoon viewings, but morning slots usually get dedicated attention

Frequently Asked Questions

A 2-bedroom apartment in Dublin typically costs between $2,000 and $2,500 per month for expats, depending on the neighborhood.

Stoneybatter, Drumcondra, Smithfield are popular choices for expat families in Dublin, offering good safety scores, international schools nearby, and family-friendly amenities.

When relocating to Dublin, expect one-time housing costs including a security deposit, real estate agent fees, and moving services. Create a free ReloPlanner account to see a personalized cost breakdown.

Plan Your Entire Move to Dublin

Access step-by-step guides, personalized budgets, and expert tips for housing and 6 other relocation categories across 140+ cities.

Free to start. No credit card required.

Data verified: March 2026
This was the general picture

Your move to Dublin looks nothing like this

This guide covers Dublin for everyone. Your plan covers your origin country, your kids' ages, your budget, your dog — with real costs, a sequenced task list, and the things most families don't find out until it's too late.

Build your personalised plan — free →

Takes 2 minutes to set up