Understanding the cost of living in Ireland vs UK is important for individuals planning to relocate, study, or work in either country. Both nations have their unique economic dynamics, and this blog delves into the costs associated with daily life, from dining and housing to transportation and utilities.
This blog will give you a comprehensive guide which will help you to make informed decisions based on affordability and lifestyle preferences. So, without any further ado, let’s dive in!
Table of contents
Average Cost of Living in Ireland vs UK
The average cost of living in UK is generally less than in the UK, especially for housing, groceries, and leisure activities. Rent in Ireland is significantly more expensive, with a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre costing GBP 1103, compared to GBP 1,038 in the UK. Groceries like bread, chicken, and potatoes are pricier in Ireland, affecting daily expenses.
However, utilities and transportation tend to be more affordable in Ireland. With salaries nearly equal, Ireland’s lower mortgage rates may appeal to potential homeowners, but the higher day-to-day expenses can strain budgets more than in the UK. Below you can look at the average cost of living in Ireland vs the UK.
| Expense Type | UK (GBP) | Ireland (GBP) |
| Rent (1-Bedroom, City Center) | 1,038.73 | 1,096.00 |
| Basic Utilities (85m²) | 241.04 | 178.00 |
| Groceries (Bread 500g) | 1.24 | 1.53 |
| Transportation (One-Way Ticket) | 2.20 | 1.67 |
| Fitness Club Membership | 33.81 | 41.67 |
| Monthly Salary (Net) | 2,425.76 | 2,453.00 |
Cost of Studying in Ireland vs UK
The cost of studying in Ireland vs UK varies widely depending on the program and institution. Tuition fees in Ireland for non-EU students range from GBP 7,552 to GBP 20,979 annually, while in the UK, they range from GBP 10,000 to GBP 38,000. Undergraduate programs are generally more affordable in Ireland, but postgraduate fees are comparable in both countries.
Doctoral studies are significantly cheaper in Ireland, with fees starting at GBP 8,389, compared to the UK’s GBP 18,000. Ireland offers a more budget-friendly option for students seeking higher education, especially for research-focused programs. Find the table below to have a clear comparison between the two.
| Study Level | UK (GBP) | Ireland (GBP) |
| Undergraduate | 13,800– 46,000 | 8,000–25,000 |
| Postgraduate | 11,000–36,500 | 12,500–30,000 |
| Doctoral | 18,000–42,500 | 8,000–30,000 |
Cost of Accommodation in Ireland vs UK
Housing expenses are an important part of the cost of living in Ireland and the UK. These costs are significantly higher in Ireland, especially in urban areas. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre costs GBP 1,038 in the UK and GBP 1,103 in Ireland, marking a 26.7% increase.
Similarly, buying property is more affordable in the UK, with prices per square meter much lower than in Ireland. We will look at the cost of accommodation in Ireland and the UK in the table below.
| Type | UK Rent (GBP) | Ireland Rent (GBP) |
| 1-bedroom, City Center | 1,038.73 | 1,097.96 |
| 3-bedroom, City Center | 1,732.59 | 1,848.80 |
| Buy Price per Sq. Meter (City) | 4,762.58 | 3,638.71 |
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Cost of Food in Ireland vs UK
The cost of food reveals a major part of the cost of living in Ireland and the UK. Milk, beef, and rice are cheaper in the UK, while chicken fillets, bananas, and potatoes cost more in Ireland. For everyday essentials, Ireland tends to be pricier overall, impacting the weekly grocery bill. The table mentioned below compares the cost of groceries in Ireland vs UK.
| Item | UK (GBP) | Ireland (GBP) |
| Milk (1L) | 1.24 | 1.09 |
| Bread (500g) | 1.24 | 1.52 |
| Chicken Fillets (1kg) | 6.62 | 8.26 |
| Beef (1kg) | 10.45 | 9.18 |
| Potatoes (1kg) | 1.18 | 1.49 |
| Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant | 15.00 | 15.01 |
| Meal for 2, Mid-range (3 courses) | 65.00 | 66.72 |
| McMeal (Combo Meal) | 7.50 | 8.34 |
| Cappuccino (Regular) | 3.34 | 3.08 |
Cost of Transportation in Ireland vs UK
Public transportation is a vital part of the cost of living in Ireland vs the UK. These expenses are generally cheaper in Ireland. A one-way local transport ticket costs GBP 2.20 in the UK but only GBP 1.68 in Ireland.
However, taxis are significantly more expensive in Ireland. Fuel prices remain almost identical, reflecting similar costs for drivers in both countries. Look at the table below to understand these expenses in a more detailed way.
| Item | UK (GBP) | Ireland (GBP) |
| One-way Ticket (Local) | 2.20 | 1.67 |
| Gasoline (1L) | 1.45 | 1.22 |
Cost of Utilities
Utilities are a basic requirement while living in a country. Utilities for an 85m² apartment are more affordable in Ireland, costing GBP 179, compared to the UK’s GBP 241.04. However, mobile phone plans and internet services are costlier in Ireland, reflecting the higher demand for telecommunications infrastructure. Look at the basic cost of utilities in Ireland vs the UK.
| Item | UK (GBP) | Ireland (GBP) |
| Basic Utilities (85m²) | 241.04 | 178.67 |
| Internet (60 Mbps) | 30.96 | 38.74 |
| Mobile Plan (Calls + 10GB+) | 12.71 | 17.33 |
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Cost of Entertainment
Recreational activities are significant in life abroad. in Ireland are pricier than in the UK. Gym memberships and tennis court rentals cost significantly more. However, cinema tickets in both countries are almost identical, making movie nights an equally accessible activity. Look at the cost of entertainment in Ireland vs the UK along with the differences
| Activity | UK (GBP) | Ireland (GBP) |
| Fitness Club Membership | 33.81 | 41.67 |
| Tennis Court (1 Hour) | 11.46 | 16.32 |
| Cinema Ticket | 10.00 | 10.01 |
The cost of living in Ireland and the UK varies depending on priorities. Ireland is more expensive for housing, food, and entertainment but cheaper for utilities and childcare. The UK offers affordability in groceries, dining, and transportation. Whether you choose Ireland’s charm or the UK’s diversity, understanding these costs ensures you plan your finances wisely for a comfortable lifestyle.
Hope you liked reading our blog about the Cost of Living in Ireland vs UK. For a stress-free stay during your study abroad adventure, choose Fly Homes. Call 1800572118 to reserve your ideal accommodation abroad with ease.
FAQs on Cost of Living in Ireland vs UK 2025
The cost of living in Ireland is generally higher than in the UK. Rent, groceries, and transportation are more expensive in Ireland, while utilities and some childcare services are more affordable. On average, living in Ireland may cost 10-20% more than in the UK, depending on your location and lifestyle.
Groceries tend to be more affordable in the UK. Items like milk, rice, and beef cost less in the UK, while Ireland has higher prices for chicken, potatoes, and bananas. Overall, grocery shopping is more budget-friendly in the UK.
Utilities for an 85m² apartment are cheaper in Ireland, costing around GBP 180, compared to GBP 241 in the UK. However, mobile plans and internet services are more expensive in Ireland, with a 24-36% price increase.
Salaries are comparable in both countries. The average net monthly salary is slightly higher in Ireland at GBP 2,463, compared to GBP 2,426 in the UK. However, the cost of living may offset this difference.
Mortgage rates are lower in Ireland, with an average rate of 4.47%, compared to 5.79% in the UK. This makes homeownership slightly more attractive in Ireland, despite higher property costs.
Ireland is generally more affordable for international students. Tuition fees for non-EU students range from GBP 7,540 –GBP 20,945 annually in Ireland, compared to GBP 10,000–38,000 in the UK. Additionally, living expenses in smaller Irish cities are lower than in major UK cities.
Leisure activities are more expensive in Ireland. Gym memberships, tennis court rentals, and fitness services cost significantly more in Ireland. However, cinema ticket prices are nearly the same in both countries.
Dining out is slightly more expensive in Ireland. An inexpensive meal costs around GBP 15 in Ireland and GBP 15 in the UK. A three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant costs GBP 67 in Ireland, compared to GBP 65 in the UK.
Public transportation is cheaper in Ireland. A one-way ticket costs GBP 1.68 in Ireland, compared to GBP 2.20 in the UK. However, taxi fares are higher in Ireland, with a starting fare of GBP 4 versus GBP 3 in the UK.
Housing costs are higher in Ireland. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in Ireland’s city centre costs around GBP 1,102, compared to GBP 1,038 in the UK. Buying property is also more expensive in Ireland, with a 26-34% difference in rent prices for similar accommodations.
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