Students and professionals know that looking for accommodation in Dublin can be both exciting and very daunting, especially if you are new to the city and don’t have a network yet.
With its vibrant cultural scene, friendly locals, and growing job market, it’s no wonder that Dublin has become a very! popular destination for those seeking new opportunities. In this guide, I’ll provide you with all the information you need to find housing in Dublin – which might seem impossible (don’t give up!) from the best websites to search for apartments to tips on how to secure a place that suits your needs and budget.
1. Understanding the Housing Market in Dublin
Before you dive into your search for accommodation in Dublin, it’s essential to familiarise yourself with the local housing market. Knowing what to expect can help you make informed decisions and avoid potential pitfalls.
1.1 Types of Accommodation
There are several types of housing available in Dublin, including:
- Apartments: These can range from small studios to spacious multi-bedroom units, and are usually located in residential buildings or purpose-built complexes.
- Houses: Typically found in suburban neighbourhoods, houses can be detached, semi-detached, or terraced. They often come with a garden or outdoor space.
- House Shares: A popular option for students and young professionals, house shares involve renting a private bedroom in a shared house, with common areas like the kitchen and living room used by all tenants.
1.2 Rental Prices
Rental prices in Dublin vary depending on factors like location, size, and condition of the property. Generally, apartments and houses in the city centre or near public transport tend to be more expensive. On average, you can expect to pay:
- €900-1,200 for a room in a house share
- €2,000 per month for a one-bedroom apartment
- €2,300 to €3,500 per month for a two-bedroom apartment
Note that utility bills, such as electricity, gas, and water, are usually not included in the rent and need to be paid separately.
1.3 High Demand and Competition
The demand for housing in Dublin, particularly in popular neighbourhoods, definitely exceeds supply. This can make finding a place challenging and competitive. Everyone is aware that Dublin has a housing shortage, so finding an apartment or a room will definitely take some dedication and perseverance on your part. It is possible, but get ready to put in some time and sweat into this. Also, never transfer money before viewing the place in person or sending someone to view it. Scams are a real thing and should be taken seriously. If something sounds wayyy too good to be true, it probably is. Be prepared to act very quickly when you get a response from the landlord, and have all the necessary documents ready to secure the accommodation.
Are you a student who needs help managing their apartment search?
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2. Best Websites to Find Accommodation in Dublin
To streamline your search for housing in Dublin, it’s crucial to use reliable and reputable websites. Here are some of the most popular platforms for finding apartments and rooms in the city:
- Daft.ie: One of the largest property websites in Ireland, Daft.ie features a vast selection of listings for apartments, houses, and rooms. You can set up alerts to notify you when new apartments or rooms get added to the website. Send inquiries right away after they are listed – this is very important, as after 1 day, many listings have already been viewed by over 10,000 people. The only way you might get a response from the landlord is by being extremely quick.
- Rentola: This is the platform that I found my 1-bedroom apartment on. It was a mix of luck and perseverance. After sending over 100 inquiries a day on daft.ie for weeks, I created a free listing ad on Rentola saying that I am looking for an apartment with my boyfriend. We added our picture, detailed descriptions and what we are willing to pay. Less than a week later, a landlord contacted us and we asked for a video call, which we got. The next day, an acquaintance of mine went to see the place in Dublin, as I was living in Berlin at the time (remember I mentioned that being quick is very important?). Give Rentola a chance, as it aggregates listings from various sources, making it easy to find a wide range of properties in one place.
- Rentberry: Similar to all other housing platforms, although I found that the apartment seem to be on the pricier side there.
- Spotahome: An online rental platform for mid- to long-term home rentals. It’s a safe platform where you can book an apartment or room for a specific time period instantly without the need for in-person viewings. This comes with a price though, so booking an accommodation through spot a home is normally more expensive than booking through other platforms.
- MyHome.ie: MyHome.ie is a well-established Irish property website that offers a user-friendly search experience, with listings for both rentals and properties for sale.
- Rent.ie: Rent.ie specialises in rental properties and offers a straightforward search experience, with filters to help you narrow down your options.
- For Academics: Sabbatical Homes – Sabbatical Homes is truly an incredible option for academics and students coming from abroad and looking for temporary accommodation. I was in contact with 2 home owners who were planning to sublet their houses for their year away on sabbatical. They normally only want people who are students or professors to take over and take care of their place while they are away. For this website, I recommend you check in every now and then, to see if any new places got added. Also, you can put up a listing that you are looking for a place including all your preferences.
- For Students: The easiest option might be opting for a student accommodation. However, beware that these might be a bit more expensive than what a room at an apartment would cost you and mean even less privacy than the alternatives. The rooms at student accommodations are pretty tiny but normally include your own shower/toilet facility. The kitchen and living room are normally shared with other students, which can be a blessing or a curse. If you can, get in touch with other students from your course before the start date and ask if they want to live in an apartment in a student accommodation. This would mean that you will be sharing one kitchen and living room, but at least you will also be in the same course. Various Student Accommodations are available in Dublin, and they are more or less the same. Some popular ones are: Beckett House, Binary Hub, Kavanagh Court, New Mill, Dominick Place, Ardcairn House, Dorset Point, Aparto Student Accommodations.
In addition to these, Facebook groups such as “Dublin Rent a Room” and “Sharing Accommodation in Dublin” or Facebook Groups that are created for your course if you are a student, or for incoming Erasmus students can be useful resources for finding rooms in shared houses.
3. Tips for Finding a Place in Dublin
When looking for housing in Dublin, keep the following tips in mind to increase your chances of success:
3.1 Start Your Search Early, But Not Too Early
Begin your search for accommodation in Dublin as early as is reasonable. For student accommodations, you should book as soon as you get accepted to your course, as they go quickly. For regular houses, apartments or house shares, starting 1-3 months before the move in date might be your best bet. Many landlords want you to move in right away and only few can hold an apartment for a month. This is what makes finding an apartment from abroad so tricky and stressful. I tried to find an apartment 6 months in advance only to get rejected or not get any replies at all. In the end I found an apartment almost 1 month in advance, due to partially luck but also just waiting it out a little and trying again closer to the desired move in date.
3.2 Be Flexible with Your Preferences
While it’s important to have a list of preferences for your ideal housing, such as the neighbourhood, being flexible can increase your chances of finding a suitable place. In Dublin, some neighbourhoods are considered to be less well-off, but I’ve found that generally you shouldn’t worry too much. Due to the housing crisis, everyone is living everywhere, so there are less of the “awful” or “dangerous” neighbourhoods – it has leveled off quite a bit. I live in Dublin 1, and although many say it is less nice than Dublin 2 or Dublin 4, I still find it quite safe and convenient. So, do consider Dublin 1, Dublin 7 or Dublin 9 (all on the North side of Dublin) and not only the south side of Dublin, that may be a bit more posh. Also consider different property types, and price ranges to broaden your options.
3.3 Prepare Your Documents
Landlords in Dublin may ask for various documents when you apply for a rental property. These can include:
- Proof of identity (passport, driver’s license)
- Proof of income (employment contract, pay slips)
- References from previous landlords or employers and CV
- Bank statements
Having these documents ready can help speed up the application process and improve your chances of securing the accommodation.
3.4 Attend Property Viewings
Whenever possible, attend property viewings to get a firsthand look at the accommodation and meet the landlord or agent. This can give you a better understanding of the property’s condition and help you make an informed decision.
3.5 Be Prepared to Negotiate
In some cases, you may be able to negotiate the rental price or terms with the landlord. While this is not always possible, it’s worth trying if you feel that the rent is too high or the terms are unfavourable.
4. Securing Your Rental Property
Once you’ve found a suitable apartment or house in Dublin, it’s essential to act quickly to secure the property.
Follow these steps to complete the rental process:
4.1 Submit Your Application
Submit your application to the landlord or agent (after you or someone you know has actually seen the apartment and checked that the Eircode (postal code) exists!), including all the necessary documents. Make sure to double-check the information you provide and ensure that everything is accurate and up to date.
4.2 Pay the Deposit
If your application is approved, you will typically need to pay a security deposit to secure the property. This is usually equivalent to one-two months’ rent and is held by the landlord as a guarantee against damages or unpaid bills.
4.3 Sign the Tenancy Agreement
The tenancy agreement is a legally binding contract between you and the landlord, outlining the terms and conditions of your rental. Make sure to read the agreement carefully and clarify any doubts before signing.
4.4 Set Up Utilities and Services
Once you’ve secured the property, you’ll need to set up utilities and services such as electricity, gas, water, and internet if the landlord doesn’t have them set up. Some landlords may include utilities in the rent, while others may require you to set up accounts with the respective providers.
5. Navigating Dublin’s Public Transportation System
Dublin has an extensive public transportation system, making it pretty easy to get around the city without a car. Do beware that the public transport is not always punctual though. You can get a transportation card, called “Leap Card” that you put balance on through NFC on your phone or the ticket machines. Here’s a quick overview of the various transportation options available:
5.1 Buses
Dublin Bus is the primary bus operator in the city, with numerous routes serving both the city centre and suburban areas. Bus fares range from €1.55 to €3.30, depending on your destination.
5.2 Luas (Tram)
The Luas is a modern tram system with two lines – the Green Line and the Red Line – connecting various parts of the city. Fares are based on distance traveled, with adult tickets starting at €2.10.
5.3 DART (Train)
The Dublin Area Rapid Transit (DART) is a suburban rail network that runs along the city’s coastline, connecting Dublin with nearby towns and villages. Fares vary depending on the distance traveled, with adult tickets starting at €2.00.
5.4 Bikes
Some say Dublin is a bike-friendly city, although I don’t see that many bike lanes and wouldn’t risk it 😅 There are bike-sharing schemes like DublinBikes available for residents and visitors. Cycling is of course an eco-friendly and cost-effective way to explore the city and its surrounding areas. Beware if you buy a bike that there is a wave of bike thefts going around, so you might need to bring it inside with you or get an extremely tough lock.
6. Cost of Living in Dublin
As mentioned earlier, the cost of living in Dublin can be high, particularly when it comes to housing. However, there are ways to manage expenses and make the most of your budget. Here’s a breakdown of some common living costs in the city:
6.1 Groceries
On average, you can expect to spend around €200-400 per month on groceries for one person. This figure can vary depending on your shopping habits and dietary preferences. Of course this can be cheaper or more expensive depending on where you shop too.
Some inexpensive options include:
- Markets on the Streets
- Lidl
- Aldi
More expensive and fancy options are:
- Supervalue
- Costco
- Tesco
6.2 Dining Out
Dublin offers a diverse range of dining options to suit all budgets but dining out is definitely on the pricier side here. On average, you can expect to pay:
- €10 to €20 for a meal at a more or less affordable restaurant
- €20 to €40 for a meal at a mid-range restaurant
- €50 and up for a meal at a high-end restaurant
6.3 Transportation
As mentioned earlier, public transportation in Dublin can be expensive. However, using a Leap Card that I mentioned before – a reloadable smart card for public transport – can help you save on fares.
6.4 Utilities and Services
Utility costs, such as electricity, gas, and water, can vary depending on your usage and the size of your property. On average, you can expect to pay:
- €80 to €120 per month for electricity and gas (normally more in the winter months and much less in the summer)
- €20 to €40 per month for water (if applicable)
- €40 to €60 per month for internet
7. Healthcare and Insurance in Dublin
Access to healthcare is a crucial consideration for expats and students living in Dublin. The Irish healthcare system is a mix of public and private services, with most residents having access to both.
7.1 Public Healthcare System
The public healthcare system in Ireland is funded through general taxation and provides a range of services for residents, including hospital care, GP visits, and prescription medications. However, wait times for public healthcare services can be very long, and not all services are free of charge.
7.2 Private Healthcare System
Many residents in Ireland also opt for private healthcare, either through employer-sponsored insurance or personal policies. Private healthcare providers generally offer faster access to services and a wider range of specialists.
8. Safety and Security in Dublin
Dublin is generally considered a safe city for residents and visitors. However, it’s essential to take common-sense precautions, such as:
- Being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded or unfamiliar areas
- Keeping your belongings secure and not leaving them unattended
- Avoiding poorly lit or deserted areas at night – always take the main street if you can
- Reporting any suspicious activity to the local authorities
10. Culture and Leisure Activities in Dublin
Dublin is a city rich in history, culture, and entertainment, offering countless opportunities to enjoy your free time. Some popular time-off activities in the city include:
- Exploring Dublin’s many museums, modern art galleries and cathedrals
- Attending concerts, theatre performances, and festivals
- Taking part in sports and outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and golf
- Visiting nearby towns and villages, or exploring the stunning Irish countryside (such as Howth – which is only around 30 minutes away by train from the city centre)
So, finding the perfect housing in Dublin might be challenging, but with the right resources and a proactive approach, you can secure a comfortable and suitable place to call home. By using reputable websites like daft.ie, rentola, and myhome.ie, and following the tips outlined in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying all that Dublin has to offer. Good luck to you!
FAQ Section:
Q: What is the Dublin housing crisis? A: The Dublin housing crisis refers to the ongoing high demand for accommodation in the city, leading to steep prices and limited availability. Despite measures to increase housing supply, demand continues to outpace supply, making it challenging for many people to find affordable housing.
Q: Is there a housing crisis in Ireland? A: Yes, Ireland, particularly Dublin, has been experiencing a housing crisis due to a combination of high demand and limited supply, leading to increased prices. This issue impacts both the rental market and property sales.
Q: What’s the situation for Dublin, Ireland’s real estate? A: The real estate market in Dublin is quite competitive due to high demand. Both buying and renting in the city can be challenging, it’s important to have great references, all documents ready, and to beware of scams.
Q: Is Dublin, Ireland safe or dangerous? A: Generally, Dublin is a safe city with a low crime rate compared to other major cities. However, as with any city, certain areas might have higher crime rates, and it’s always advised to take usual safety precautions.
Q: Is Dublin expensive? A: Dublin is known for its relatively high cost of living, particularly when it comes to housing. A regular meal at a restaurant also often comes out to about 20 EUR.
Q: Does Dublin, Ireland have zip codes? A: Yes, in Ireland, they are referred to as “Eircodes.” Each property has its unique Eircode, which helps in locating the exact address.
Q: How big is Dublin, Ireland? A: Dublin covers an area of approximately 44.5 square miles (115.6 square kilometres). The Greater Dublin Area, including suburban areas, is larger, covering approximately 318 square miles (824 square kilometres).
Q: How densely populated is Ireland? A: “The Dublin Region accounts for more than 25% of the country’s total population with a population density of 4,588 people per square kilometer in the city proper, or 11,880 per square mile.” (Source)
Q: Is Dublin, Ireland a good place to live? A: Dublin offers a high quality of life with its vibrant cultural scene, friendly people, and a booming job market. However, the high cost of living, particularly for housing, and high cost of food & drinks can be a challenge.
Q: What is Dublin, Ireland’s currency? A: The currency in Dublin, and all of Ireland, is the Euro (€).
Q: Does it rain a lot in Dublin, Ireland? A: Dublin tends to get less rain than the western part of the country. I’ve actually found the weather surprisingly amazing!
