Cost of Living in Dublin for Students: Your Ultimate Guide

Moving to a new city like Dublin can be an exciting adventure for students. However, it is important to understand the financial aspects of relocating to Dublin beforehand for a comfortable and smooth transition. Contrary to the popular belief that money can’t buy happiness, having the right budget will make your living cost in Dublin for students much more enjoyable. In this guide, we will talk about the cost of living in Dublin to help you easily plan your new life in the city.

About Dublin

Dublin, Ireland's capital, has been the country's economic, cultural, and historical driving force for hundreds of years. The city has long been recognised as a trade leader and the face of revolutionary thought. Dublin is a minor capital well-known worldwide as a cosmopolitan city with a lively atmosphere. It is home to some of the most prestigious universities and allows international students to advance in their careers. Students from all over the world consider Dublin to be a home away from home because of its multicultural and diverse community. It is a calculated blend of city life and the tranquil and peaceful atmosphere of its extensive green spaces and lawns. 

With its systematic train routes and well-connected bus system, living in Dublin as a student keeps you well-connected with the rest of Ireland. Over time, Dublin has become an internationally renowned destination for students across the globe, given its world-famous eateries, breweries, and clubs. The city also has a vibrant nightlife and deep-rooted cultural evidence, making it enchanting. Although, when it comes to moving to another city or country, the cost of living in Dublin might take a toll on your overall budget, making it difficult and confusing for students unaware of the situation at the base. So we've put together a detailed guide to get an idea of the cost of living in Dublin you might have to confront in the city so you can plan accordingly.

Cost of Living in Dublin

When compared to other cities in Ireland, Dublin is an expensive place. Even if this is true, no other city can replace what Dublin offers as a big city. Despite the high cost of living in Dublin, hundreds of thousands of international students choose it as their dream study destination. A student's estimated cost of living in Dublin is around €1467/month. This varies on the kind of lifestyle you have acquired there. We have put together a few leading factors, which comprise the entire cost of living in Dublin for international students.  

Common Expenses and How to Save on Them

After all the significant living expenses in Dublin for a student has to incur, a few miscellaneous living expenses in Dublin can be substantial when put together. Apart from the compulsory payments, bills, and rent, a few costs are associated with leisurely spending, shopping, movie shows, outings, night outs, parties, etc. However insignificant they might seem, they will significantly impact your cost of living in Dublin in the long run. Although Dublin is an expensive city with a higher cost of living than the other cities in Ireland for students to live in, there are many methods to cut costs and improve your quality of life while there.

Grocery Expenses

It is important to make wise choices with your food budget while managing grocery living expenses in Dublin. The average monthly expenses for groceries in Dublin range from €200 to €300. Dublin has plenty of grocery options that suit people’s needs and budgets. Aldi and Lidl have a wide selection of meats, cheeses, fruits, vegetables, snacks and beverages at really affordable prices. You can buy fresh fruits and vegetables in larger quantities and at affordable prices at Produce Stands scattered across Dublin, often featuring deals such as five apples for €1. 

How to save money on groceries?

One of the easiest ways to save money on groceries in Dublin is to stick to your shopping list. Be a smart shopper, and avoid impulse purchases.  Create a detailed list based on your needs, and plan your meals in advance. Always go for store-brand products, as they are cheaper and comparable in quality. Look out for special offers and discounts at supermarkets to increase your savings. 

Travel Expenses in Dublin

An average journey within Dublin ranges around €3/ trip. However, this entirely depends on your travel distance and transportation mode. Because it is a very well-connected city, students can easily reach any destination without embarking on a difficult or stressful journey. Your cost of living in Dublin may rise or fall depending upon the costs you incur daily while travelling to and from your Dublin student apartments to the university campus. A devised plan and thoughtful travel can reduce travel expenses by manifolds. 

Bus: The city has a well-connected bus network for students to get around the city with 120 and 18-night routes. Tickets can be purchased online or on the bus, and bus fares vary according to the distance travelled. Students can also purchase a leap card, a prepaid bus card that can be used on any bus. 

Train: Living in Dublin as a student can also use the Dublin Area Rapid Transit system to get around the city (DART). Trains are convenient and frequent, with trains departing every ten minutes. They stretch from the Irish Sea coast in the north to Greystones in the south. DART also operates commuter lines. Living in Dublin as a student allows you to travel to various cities and towns. 

If you wish to make travelling around Dublin more affordable, you can avail yourself of a Student Leap Card. It is a national student card that allows you to travel across the Republic of Ireland in various bus alternatives and DART. 

How to save money on travel?

You might be tempted to take a cab in Dublin, but buses and trains are often considered the most cost-effective transport options. Living in Dublin as a student offers travel for a lot less with Irish Rail, with tickets between Dublin and Cork just costing €19. Bus Éireann gives students a 20% discount on the already affordable fares. 

Student Accommodation in Dublin

Dublin is expensive, so it has high rent systems, which could be essential in determining how much a student will spend in Dublin. Looking for Dublin student accommodation around your university campuses is always advisable to save time and money commuting between your campus and Dublin student accommodation. The average rent a student has to pay in Dublin ranges from €175 to €356/ week. Amber provides student housing services, which makes acquiring Dublin student apartments a more straightforward and plain-sailing process. 

There are also various rent ranges based on your budget and preferences. Choosing cost-effective Dublin student apartments can reduce your overall cost of living in Dublin. And, because the city is on the east coast, day trips and excursions to the mountains or cliffsides are only a bus ride away, where you can see some of Ireland's most vast and beautiful scenery. To look for more Dublin student apartments, you can scroll through our 10 Best Areas to Live in Dublin list that we curated specifically for you. Also, if you are planning to move to Dublin for your further studies then you might be concerned about finding a suitable accommodation. Don't worry, we got you cover with some amazing accommodation like Brunswick court, Blackhall Place, Dorset Point and Highfield House.

How to save money on accommodation?

Students can consider staying at budget-friendly accommodations instead of high-end hotels. Make sure that you book the Dublin student accommodation in advance and be flexible with your travel dates to help secure better deals. Look for Dublin student accommodation outside the city centre to find great places to stay at much more affordable rates. Rent an apartment or share accommodations to split the costs. Watch for promotions or special offers from accommodation providers.

Food & Dublin Restaurants

Dublin is well-equipped with numerous eateries, restaurants, and cafes. Although almost all of the restaurants in Dublin are slightly more expensive than in other cities, you can find one that is more affordable and serves wholesome meals. If you want to calculate how much of your cost of living in Dublin will go into food and eating out, keep reading. If you plan to eat out, you can start with the basics, such as Mcdonald's. The iconic burger costs around €5.25 in the cost of living in Dublin for students. Dinner for two at a local pub will cost in the range of €45. Three courses for two at a mid-range restaurant will cost between €70 and €80. You can also try student-friendly or budget-friendly restaurants and cafes such as Beanhive, Tang Cafe, and Joy of Cha. 

How to save money on food?

Cooking your own meals instead of dining out gives you more control over your expenses and time to explore local grocery stores and markets for affordable ingredients. Look out for lunch specials or early bird menus offered by restaurants for discounted prices. Consider more budget-friendly options like food trucks, street food vendors and local cafes over upscale restaurants to save money. You can apply for deals or discounts on coupon websites.

Personal Care/Clothing Expenses

Regarding personal care and clothing expenses in Dublin living costs, it's essential to budget accordingly. On average, Dublin living costs residents spend between €100 to €300 per month on clothes. Whether you're shopping for a pair of jeans, a summer dress, or even a pair of Nike sneakers, you can expect to find prices around €80, €47, and €96, respectively. These costs may vary based on brand and store preferences, but it's important to plan your expenses to ensure your personal style and grooming needs are met within your budget. Remember that prices can fluctuate over time, so it's a good idea to stay updated with the latest information to make informed decisions.

How to save money on personal care/clothing?

Buy clothes during sales and take advantage of discounts and promotions retailers offer in Dublin living costs. Shop for clothing and personal care items during seasonal sales at reduced prices. Dublin’s thrift stores and second-hand shops offer quality clothing and personal care products at lower rates. It is a great practice to budget and plan your purchases well in advance. Focus on buying essential items only, and avoid impulsive purchases.

Entertainment Costs in Dublin

Regarding the cost of entertainment in Dublin living costs, it's important to be mindful of your expenses while still enjoying the vibrant city. Pubs are a popular socialising option, but a night out can quickly become expensive, with pints of beer ranging from €5 to €7. To save money, you can opt for a cosy night in by purchasing a can of Guinness from a local store. Dublin also offers cultural attractions such as the National Gallery of Ireland and the Irish Museum of Modern Art, both of which have free admission. If you're interested in live entertainment, the Abbey Theatre is a great venue for watching plays, with ticket prices starting around €13. For movie buffs, cinema tickets in Dublin living costs can range from €10 to €15, but you can also wait for outdoor cinemas that appear during the summer. Enjoying nature in Phoenix Park is another affordable option, as entry is free, and you can rent a bike for around €10 per hour to explore the park at your own pace. By being mindful of your budget and exploring cheaper alternatives, you can have fun without overspending  Dublin living costs.

How to save money on entertainment?

You can opt for many different ways to save money on entertainment in Dublin. There are diverse entertainment options in Dublin that provide free activities. You can choose from various pubs in Dublin to catch live music and other entertainment. Half a pint is less expensive when you get them from reasonable bars, pubs, and restaurants.

Tuition Fees in Dublin

Dublin is home to five renowned institutions that provide various courses in different fields. Students' cost of living in Dublin increases in every sense when choosing a university with higher tuition fees since the universities have attained top-tier rankings; it is a crucial draw for students from abroad. The following list of institutions and their typical tuition costs:

1. Dublin City University 

Dublin City University is ranked in the top 10 universities in Ireland and 19th worldwide. It has around five campuses offering around 200 courses in many subjects. The average tuition fees for these institutions range from around €14,000 to €21,000 for UG courses and at least €17,500 for PG courses. 

2. University College Dublin

University College Dublin is ranked in the top 1% of universities worldwide and comes among the top 200 institutions for higher education worldwide. With around 34,000 students, the university comprises 8000 plus international students from various countries. The average cost a student incurs as the tuition fees for this institution range from €14,000 to €29,000/ year. 

3. Trinity College Dublin

Trinity College Dublin is known to be Ireland's oldest university which was established in the year 1592. Its faculties include health sciences, engineering, mathematics, the humanities and social sciences. The average tuition fees students pay here go around €17,500 to  €53,000/ year, depending upon the course and its type. 

4. TU Dublin

TU Dublin is Ireland's first technological university. TU is the university where the arts, sciences, business, and technology combine with 29,000 students on its campuses in the third largest population centres of the wider Dublin region, offering pathways to graduation from apprenticeship to PhD.

If you are planning to move to an English-speaking city, the cost of living in Dublin for students is a much more affordable option than in London for you as a student. Finally, your circumstances and preferences will dictate your choice. The choices you make and the lifestyle you opt for once you're there will determine how expensive or affordable the city is. Making wise decisions can ensure your stay is comfortable and enjoyable. We hope you enjoy your time in Dublin and wish you the best of luck in your future endeavours. You can also check out our blog on the best cities to explore in Ireland.