Moving to Ireland
Ireland: the small but popular destination, boasting a globally celebrated character. With a strong heritage and Gaelic traditions, Irish culture has spread around the world through popular festivals like St Patrick’s Day.
Moving to Ireland offers the ideal mix of spectacular countryside and lively cities, usually all within easy reach. The capital Dublin is a cosmopolitan city, home to half a million of the country’s 4.8 million residents. Politically the country is divided into the Republic of Ireland (commonly known as Ireland) and Northern Ireland, which is part of the United Kingdom.
While most people won’t be moving to Ireland for the weather, the country has a moderate climate with regular rainfall. It’s that rain that helps to create the lush green landscape with earned Ireland the nickname of the Emerald Isle.
Finding accommodation in Ireland
Whether you’re looking for a slick city centre apartment, student flat-share or cosy cottage in the countryside, there are plenty of options in Ireland depending on your needs and budget. With both urban and rural settings available, as well as beautiful properties overlooking the coast, there are varied lifestyles on offer here.
Within the capital and other major cities, accommodation is often apartments and terraced row housing. Freestanding houses, cottages and large manor homes are more likely to be found in the countryside and in smaller villages or towns.
The cost of living remains high in Ireland and prices in Dublin are comparable to those of big cities and capitals like London and New York. Outside of the capital, housing prices vary widely – it’s dependent on where you plan on living and what kind and size of property you are considering.
Accommodation can be found through online searches, newspapers or real estate agents, although we recommend obtaining the support of a professional home search expert who knows the area well. A specialist in relocation with local knowledge will be able to advise you of the best areas and homes for your needs.
Education and family life in Ireland
Schooling is compulsory in Ireland from the ages of 6 to 16 and most schools are publicly funded and free to attend. Standards are generally very high. There are three levels of education: primary, secondary and higher, with students at secondary school working towards qualifications known as their ‘Leaving Certificate’.
There are a number of private schools to choose from, many of which are based around Dublin and cost thousands of euros in tuition fees every year. International schools are also available although fees are expensive, and schools may have long waiting lists.
The number and kinds of schools you have to choose from will be heavily influenced by where you choose to move to in Ireland. Irish people and expats living in remote and rural communities will often have only one choice and may involve some commute to school.
If you’re moving to Ireland with your family, our School Search experts are on hand to find you the perfect school for your family. They even walk you through the application process.
Ireland: the culture of the emerald isle
Visiting Ireland for the first time, you cannot fail to notice the sheer number of pubs. A local pub can be found almost everywhere you look and are often the hub of the local community. This is a reflection of the generally lively and sociable nature of the Irish! For anyone moving for work in Ireland, or new to the area, the local pub will become an invaluable resource – this is where you get to know your neighbours and make friends, as well as sample local meals, drinks and music.
Although Gaelic is the official language, almost everybody speaks in English during day to day activity. The exceptions to that are in parts of the country known as the Gaeltacht regions in the northwest and west, where Irish is more commonly heard.
Good to know
Ireland is one of only a few countries in the world that does not have any snakes. Although legends claim it was the work of Saint Patrick who banished them, scientists believe it is likely due to the Ice Age.
It’s the law that every full-time employee in Ireland is entitled to 20 days’ leave per year. On top of this there are also 9 public holidays scattered throughout the year.
The most prominent religion in Ireland is Christianity, with 78% of the population identifying as Catholic.
How can we help you with a move to Ireland?
If you’re considering emigrating to Ireland, we’re here to help. With over 120 years of experience in international and domestic moving, and a dedicated team of move consultants, we know what you need for an easy and enjoyable relocation.
We have over 50 years specialising in Irish moves, and a wealth of local knowledge, as well as our office in Dublin. From storage, to shipping and even finding your dream home, we take care of it all. At Santa Fe Relocation, we make moving home easy for you.
