Digital Nomad Life in Dublin, Ireland
Summary: Digital nomads like living in Dublin, Ireland because of its vibrant culture, excellent public transportation, and affordable cost of living. Dublin is a great city for digital nomads because it offers a great work-life balance, with plenty of opportunities for networking and socializing. The best neighborhood to live in Dublin is Rathmines, which is known for its vibrant nightlife, great restaurants, and easy access to public transportation. The approximate population of Dublin, Ireland is 1.2 million. The weather in Dublin, Ireland (Farenheit) is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-30s in the winter to the mid-60s in the summer. The monthly cost of living for a digital nomad in Dublin is approximately $1,500-$2,000 USD, depending on lifestyle. This includes rent, food, transportation, and entertainment. The cost to rent a centrally located, one-bedroom apartment with high-speed internet access in Dublin is approximately $1,500-$2,000 USD per month.
How do I meet people in Dublin?
When we asked people living in Dublin about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"Expats in Dublin often join clubs and activities such as sports teams, language classes, and cultural events. Expats can also meet people by attending local festivals, joining meetup groups, or attending networking events. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups related to their interests. This can be a great way to connect with other expats and locals alike," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Dublin.
"meetup.com has great groups (organized by interests) that get together often. Also, if you're living in Dublin alone, don't be afraid to go out to the pub or out to eat on your own. I'm a major introvert, so pushing myself to actually go sit at a pub alone, with people potentially judging me, was very daunting. But you know what, 4 different people came up and started conversations with me. The 2nd time I did it, I met the guy who is now my boyfriend of six months, and acquired a great group of friends," explained one person living in Dublin, Ireland.
What is life like in Dublin?
When we asked people living in Dublin what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Life for expats and digital nomads in Dublin is vibrant and exciting. The city is full of culture, history, and entertainment, making it an ideal destination for those looking to experience a new way of life. The city is also home to a large international community, making it easy to meet people from all over the world. The cost of living in Dublin is relatively low compared to other European cities, making it an attractive option for those looking to live and work abroad. The city also offers a wide range of activities and attractions, from its many museums and galleries to its lively nightlife. With its friendly locals, great food, and stunning scenery, Dublin is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads," remarked one member in Dublin.
"Family life is big. I love to see all the families out on the weekend spending time together in the parks or the sea front (weather providing). Socialising is a big thing as well, and there seems to be a healthy balance between the two. Often times, you'll see kids with their parents in the pub, which still seems so strange to me," explained one expat living in Dublin, Ireland.
Where should I live in Dublin?
We asked digital nomads and expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Dublin is to use online resources such as rental websites and real estate agents. You can also search for rental properties in local newspapers and on bulletin boards. Additionally, you can ask friends and family who live in the area for recommendations. Once you have identified potential properties, you should visit them in person to get a better sense of the area and the property itself," said one person in Dublin.
"We came to Ireland on a pre-move visit to get a 'feel' for the different areas in and around Dublin. In the months previous to our move we scoured the homes for rent list on www.daft.ie which is THE website for real estate on which virtually all real estate agents and prive landlords advertise their properties. We eventually found our home via an estate agent," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Dublin.
What do I need to know before moving to Dublin?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Dublin, they said:
"Before retiring in Dublin, expats should familiarize themselves with the cost of living, the availability of healthcare, and the tax system. It is also important to research the local culture and customs, as well as the climate and weather. Additionally, expats should consider the availability of public transportation and the proximity of amenities such as grocery stores, banks, and other services. Finally, expats should consider the availability of recreational activities and the ease of making friends in the local community," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Dublin.
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What do people appreciate most about the culture in Dublin?
"Expats in Dublin appreciate the city's vibrant culture, which is full of music, art, and literature. They also enjoy the friendly and welcoming atmosphere of the city, as well as the many pubs and restaurants that offer a variety of cuisines. Additionally, expats appreciate the city's rich history and the many historical sites that can be visited. Finally, they enjoy the city's natural beauty, with its many parks and green spaces," said one expat in Dublin.
"Multicultural environment, ability to travel more, possibilities seem to be expanded here as compared to Argentina/Latin America, more connection with the spiritual side of human being," remarked one member in Dublin.
What do people find most challenging about the culture in Dublin?
"Be careful not to talk too much about yourself and reveal too much about yourself too early. It will takes weeks and months of getting together with an Irish friend to learn personal details about them. Only reveal one or two personal details per visit or it will overwhelm them. They will respect the friendship more if it is earned and learned over time. Forget getting anything fixed, it will take weeks and more than one visit. Always offer a service person (plumber, gardener, etc.) tea and make sure it is one of the two Irish brands, offering a biscuit doesn't hurt too. Won't improve the service but they will appreciate that you are polite. Always apologize if you create any sort of inconvenience for another person, it will be much appreciated," explained one person living in Dublin, Ireland.
"Expats in Dublin often find the local culture to be quite different from what they are used to. The Irish are known for their friendly and welcoming nature, but the language barrier can be a challenge for those who are not familiar with the Irish accent. Additionally, the Irish have a strong sense of community and can be quite insular, which can make it difficult for expats to make friends and feel like part of the local culture. Furthermore, the Irish are known for their love of pubs and socializing, which can be intimidating for those who are not used to such a lively atmosphere," said one expat in Dublin.
What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in Dublin for a while?
"If you plan to stay in Dublin for a while, you will need to apply for a long-term visa or residency permit. Depending on your nationality, you may need to apply for a visa before you travel to Ireland. You may also need to provide evidence of your financial means, health insurance, and proof of accommodation. Once you have been granted a visa or residency permit, you will need to register with the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service," explained one expat living in Dublin, Ireland.
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What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in Dublin?
We asked people in Dublin if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:
"It is important to be mindful of cultural differences when visiting Dublin. It is best to avoid making negative comments about Irish culture, history, or politics. Additionally, it is important to be respectful of religious beliefs and practices, as Ireland is a predominantly Catholic country. It is also important to be aware of local customs, such as not wearing shorts or revealing clothing in religious sites. Finally, it is important to be aware of local laws and regulations, such as not drinking in public," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Dublin.
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What are healthcare services like in Dublin?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Dublin, they replied:
"Healthcare services in Dublin, are a mix of public and private providers, offering a wide range of medical services to residents and visitors. The public healthcare system, managed by the Health Service Executive (HSE), provides access to primary care, hospital care, mental health services, and emergency care for all citizens, with costs either fully or partially covered by the state. General practitioners (GPs) serve as the first point of contact for primary care, and patients may be referred to specialists or hospitals as needed. Dublin is home to several major hospitals, including St. James's Hospital, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, and Beaumont Hospital, which offer a variety of specialized services and treatments. Additionally, there are numerous smaller hospitals and clinics throughout the city, catering to various medical needs. Private healthcare is also available in Dublin, with many individuals opting for private insurance to gain access to faster treatment, a wider choice of specialists, and more comfortable hospital accommodations. Private hospitals, such as the Blackrock Clinic and the Hermitage Medical Clinic, offer state-of-the-art facilities and services. Pharmacies are widely available throughout Dublin, providing prescription medications and over-the-counter remedies, as well as offering advice on minor ailments and health concerns. Dental care is also accessible, with both public and private dentists available to cater to various needs and budgets. Overall, healthcare services in Dublin are comprehensive and of high quality, ensuring that residents and visitors have access to the care they need to maintain their health and well-being," said one foreigner in Dublin.
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What are the pros and cons of living in Dublin?
"Expats and digital nomads generally like living in Dublin, for its rich history, vibrant culture, and friendly locals. They appreciate the city's walkability, efficient public transportation system, and the abundance of pubs, restaurants, and entertainment options. The thriving tech scene and job opportunities, particularly in the IT sector, also attract many expats and digital nomads. However, there are some aspects of living in Dublin that expats and digital nomads may dislike. The high cost of living, especially the expensive housing and rental market, can be a significant challenge for many. The unpredictable weather, with frequent rain and relatively cool temperatures, may also be a downside for those who prefer a warmer climate. Additionally, some expats and digital nomads may find the bureaucracy and paperwork involved in obtaining visas and work permits to be cumbersome and time-consuming," said one foreigner in Dublin.
"The weather in the east of Ireland, middle/south, is better than most people think. It's nice to live close to the sea. Taxes deducted from your salary are relatively low compared to, e.g., Germany. Dislike: the people (of course there are always exceptions), the prices, lack of housing and lack of rights for renters, feels rather provincial once you are outside of Dublin, health care system, there's not Amazon Ireland and with Brexit now we have to pay import taxes, shipping parcels to other countries is ridiculously expensive, more traditional gender division than in other northern countries," remarked one member in Dublin.
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About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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