The recent figures show the cost of living and studying in Ireland. This includes most of the usual student expenditure apart from tuition fees. The largest living expense will be related to accommodation. It will depend on the choices made – whether you are sharing or living in a self contained flat.
Inevitably, people living in Dublin will have higher living costs. These could vary between EUR 8,000 and EUR 12,100 in 2012 mainly due to the accommodation chosen. Such expenditures usually take into account things like rent, electricity bills, general food, books, laundry, basic medicine etc., except tuition fees. IN 2019, Ireland was ranked as the 13est most expensive country in the world.
In 2007, the cost of living in Ireland was amongst the most expensive across Europe. Although this has reduced somewhat since the economic slowdown in 2008, Ireland is still one of the costliest countries in Europe. According to the Mercer’s Worldwide Cost of Living Survey 2008, Dublin was listed as the world’s 16th most expensive city to live in and Europe’s 8th. The latest Cost of Living Survey from Mercer – 2011 – indicates that Dublin has now dropped to 58th position.
To help prepare yourself consult the links below which list the approximate cost for basic necessities in Dublin.
- Cost of Living in Ireland: http://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/country_result.jsp?country=Ireland
- Irish Council for International Students: http://www.icosirl.ie/eng/student_information/cost_of_living
Money and banking
The Republic of Ireland uses the Euro as its currency. This country does not accept foreign currency as with many other European countries. However, there are some exceptions in Ireland. Main foreign currencies such as US dollars and British Pound Sterling are likely to find acceptance in some places popular with tourists. Beware if you are paying with foreign currency though as the exchange rates will be worse when compared to paying in Euro.
In addition, in Ireland, you can use credit cards in major large supermarkets, shops, hotels and restaurants. Occasionally, small retailers and cafés accept cash payments. Certain Irish retailers may also reject credit cards for amounts of less than 10 Euros. However, you may find that Irish debit cards will often be acceptable. Several discount supermarket chains, such as Aldi and Lidl will only use debit cards (Irish Laser Cards, Maestro, Visa Debit and MasterCard).
All Irish banks have currency exchange desks for cashing travellers’ cheques , exchanging cash, and obtaining advances on your credit card. Banks in Dublin are usually open from 10-4pm every day. Except on Thursday, they close at 5pm. Some large department stores also provide foreign exchange services. But this service is no longer available at post offices.
Before travelling to Ireland, you should check whether your Credit, Debit or ATM card is activated for use in both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
Some of the largest banks in Ireland include: Allied Irish Banks (AIB) AIB, Bank of Ireland, Ulster Bank, Permanent TSB. AIB is one of the Big Four commercial banks in Ireland. Moreover, it is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.
For more information please visit:
- Bank of Ireland: http://www.bank-of-ireland.co.uk/banking-services/foreign-currency
- Ireland: Banks & Money: http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Travel-g186591-s601/Ireland:Banks.And.Money.html
Travelling costs
General travelling costs in Ireland are on the high side compared to other European countries. In this sector, Ireland is one of the most expensive european countries. However, this will depend on the time of year and other factors. Therefore, it is always best to use the internet to research the available deals.
As with other capital cities, Dublin is the most expensive for travelers, however, cheaper alternatives are available outside of the capital. There are also higher concentration of companies in and around Dublin. Thus, it is a good place to start looking for placements, and to ask companies about travelling costs.
There are 20 airports in Ireland. The 4 biggest are: Dublin; Cork Airport; Shannon Airport and Kerry County Airport.
Irish Rail – Iarnród Éireann operates trains. Train lines connect Ireland with most of the cities around the island. They are perhaps more expensive than the bus, but there are fewer train stations than bus stops.
The State as well as private companies provide good bus services. They offer a comprehensive service across a range of routes. The main operator is Coras Iompair Éireann (CIE), a state owned company which operates the largest volume of services across Ireland.
For further information please see:
- Travel Intelligence: http://www.fodors.com/community/europe/what-does-it-cost-to-travel-in-ireland.cfm
- Budget your trip website: http://www.budgetyourtrip.com/ireland
- Lonely Planet: http://www.lonelyplanet.com/ireland/practical-information/money-costs#ixzz2K1qcQMGr
- Iarnród Éireann: Irish Rail – train timetable: www.irishrail.ie
- The DART: www.dart.ie
- Luas: www.luas.ie
- Bus Éireann: www.buseireann.ie