12 May 2025
Moving to Ireland as an Indian expat brings opportunities for work, study, and building a better life. But settling into a new country also means understanding where to live and how much it will cost. This guide explores the best areas where Indian expats live in Ireland, typical living expenses, and how to make the most of your income while managing your remittances back home.
Ireland has become increasingly popular among Indian professionals and students due to its strong tech industry, excellent universities, and welcoming communities. Here's where most Indian expats are living:
Dublin is Ireland's capital and the most popular destination for Indian expats. It's home to top universities like Trinity College and major tech companies such as Google, Meta, and Microsoft.
Cork is Ireland's second-largest city and offers a slightly more relaxed lifestyle compared to Dublin. It has a growing tech and pharmaceutical industry.
Galway is a charming coastal city known for its arts, festivals, and a welcoming atmosphere. It has a small but growing Indian community.
Limerick is popular among Indian students due to institutions like the University of Limerick. The cost of living is reasonable, and the city is well-connected.
Besides rent, Indian expats need to budget for other essentials like food, transportation, and internet. Here's a quick breakdown:
Health insurance is important for expats. Student plans start from €150/year, while full coverage can cost €500–€1,200 annually.
Once you've settled your budget in Ireland, sending money to your family in India becomes the next priority. Here are some tips to help you maximise your remittances:
Online services offer the best exchange rates and lower fees. When you send money to India from Ireland online, platforms like ACE Money Transfer ensure quick, safe, and low-cost transactions.
Keeping an eye on currency fluctuations helps you send money when the INR is strong against the Euro. Use exchange rate alert apps for real-time updates.
Traditional banks may charge higher fees for money transfer to India from Ireland. Online platforms are usually more economical.
Instead of sending money multiple times a month, accumulate funds and transfer a larger amount at once. This reduces transaction fees.
Make sure the service you choose is licensed, regulated, and offers fast processing times for peace of mind.
For additional insights, check out this helpful cost-of-living guide from Numbeo.
Ireland offers a welcoming home to Indian expats, with cities like Dublin, Cork, and Galway providing excellent job and educational opportunities. Understanding the cost of living is key to managing your finances wisely. And when it comes time to send money to India from Ireland, using secure and affordable online platforms can help you support your loved ones without overspending. Choose smart remittance solutions, keep track of your expenses, and enjoy your journey as an Indian expat in Ireland. More than 129,000 happy customers have rated ACE Money Transfer 4.8 out of 5 on Trustpilot—clear proof of reliable and excellent service.
Limerick is generally one of the more affordable cities for Indian expats, especially for students. It offers lower rents and overall living expenses compared to Dublin.
Yes, Dublin is the most expensive city in Ireland in terms of rent and transportation. However, it also provides the most job and study opportunities.
You can send money to India from Ireland as often as needed. However, sending larger amounts less frequently helps reduce transfer fees.
Yes, as long as you use regulated and licensed providers. Always double-check the recipient details before confirming a transaction.
Some providers may charge hidden fees or offer poor exchange rates. Always compare total costs, including both transfer fees and exchange rate margins.
