Are you thinking about moving to the Republic of Ireland? We’ve compiled a list of where Americans thrive most in this European country. This guide covers the top expat-friendly cities on the Emerald Isle, detailing job opportunities, the cost of living, and quality of life.
We at Remitly evaluated each of the following major cities based on expat communities, healthcare access, housing costs, and cultural fit—perfect for Americans seeking affordable cities with strong international networks.
Table of contents
Dublin: Chic and charming capital city with major global appeal
Quick overview: Dublin is an English-speaking international business hub with a vibrant culture and bustling tech scene full of digital nomads.
Pros:
- Strong job market in tech and finance, plus education with Trinity College in town
- Extensive expat community, especially nationals from the USA, Canada, and Australia
- Excellent public transport and international connections around Europe
- High-quality healthcare system with ultra-modern hospitals
- Rich history and cultural attractions at every corner
Cons:
- By far the highest cost of living in Ireland
- Competitive housing market
- Higher than average rental prices
- Significant traffic congestion during peak hours
- Tourist crowds in the city center year-round
Why Americans love Dublin: Many Americans with a work visa appreciate Dublin’s Silicon Docks tech and corporate culture, which feels familiar to those from major US cities like New York.
Cork: Cultural hub known for its historic harbor and relaxed atmosphere
Quick Overview: The island’s second-largest city is a coastal paradise full of castles and welcoming Irish people.
Pros:
- Thriving food scene offers world-class restaurants, cafes, and markets
- Active pharmaceutical and tech sectors provide stable employment
- Public transport efficiently connects suburbs and the city center
- Beautiful coastal location allows weekend beach trips, such as the charming town of Kinsale in County Cork
- Friendly locals provide a sense of community
Cons:
- Limited direct flights restrict international travel options
- Persistent rainfall affects outdoor activities year-round
- Regional job market lacks Dublin’s diverse opportunities
- Shopping options remain relatively limited
- Winter storms occasionally disrupt coastal activities
Why Americans love Cork: Not only does Cork have a close-knit community of expatriates, but also easy access to natural beauty and significant career opportunities.
Galway: Creative free spirit community on the Wild Atlantic Way
Quick Overview: This is an artistic coastal city where traditional music meets modern innovation.
Pros:
- Vibrant festival culture celebrates arts year-round
- Medical device industry offers specialized careers
- Stunning beaches line the nearby coastline on Ireland’s west coast
- Traditional music scene thrives in local pubs
- University presence creates a youthful atmosphere
Cons:
- Summer tourism overwhelms city facilities
- Atlantic weather brings frequent storms
- Housing scarcity drives up rental and real estate costs
- Winter months feel particularly dark
- Remote location limits international connections
Why Americans love Galway: Galway’s proximity to stunning landscapes, such the Aran Islands and Connemara, plus little towns like Westport and Mayo, excite Americans.
Limerick: Authentic laidback riverside hub known for its affordability
Quick Overview: Limerick is an affordable riverside city that blends its medieval history with a tech future.
Pros:
- Lower-cost housing draws young professionals, as well as foreign retirees
- Medieval architecture graces city streets
- Sports culture centers around rugby passion
- River Shannon provides scenic walking paths
- Local markets showcase regional produce
Cons:
- International restaurants remain scarce
- Entertainment and nightlife venues close early
- Cultural events happen infrequently
- Professional networking proves challenging
- Going to a popular destination like Kerry requires careful planning
Why Americans love Limerick: The city offers Americans the chance to experience authentic Irish culture while maintaining a comfortable standard of living at reasonable prices.
Waterford: Unique historic gem with a modern appeal
Quick Overview: Viking heritage meets modern living in Ireland’s oldest settlement.
Pros:
- Crystal heritage attracts artisan businesses
- Property prices attract first-time buyers
- Coastal location permits beach activities
- Historic walls frame city exploration
- Weekend markets enliven city squares
Cons:
- Career advancement opportunities stay limited
- International flights require Dublin travel
- Public transport needs improvement
- Cultural events occur sporadically
- Winter tourism significantly drops
Why Americans love Waterford: Americans love Waterford’s slower pace of life and historic charm, which provides a peaceful alternative to Ireland’s larger, more touristy cities.
Key facts for Americans moving to Ireland
- Critical Skills Employment Permit needed for most professional roles
- Health insurance proof is mandatory for work visa processing
- Registering with Garda (police) within 90 days of arrival is a must
- A personal Public Service Number (PPS) is required for work and public healthcare access
Irish cultural tips
- Expect shorter workdays due to the highly valued work-life balance
- Join GAA sports clubs for instant community connection
- Master casual greetings like “What’s the craic?” (How are you?)
- Arrive on time, but punctuality is less strict than in the US, so meetings may start 5-10 minutes late
Cost-saving tips in Ireland
- Consider commuter towns like Swords (Dublin) or Douglas (Cork)
- Purchase an annual Leap Card to save 30% on public transport
- Shop at Lidl/Aldi for groceries—40% cheaper than US stores
- Avoid tourist areas like Temple Bar for daily needs
Quick wins for settling in
- Download WhatsApp as a primary communication tool
- Join location-specific American expat Facebook groups
- Get an Irish mobile number and eSIM through Three or Vodafone
- Set up an AIB or Bank of Ireland account using a passport
- Register with a local doctor
- Obtain Irish Revenue registration for tax purposes
Ready to embark on your Irish adventure or settle into your new home? From Dublin‘s dynamic energy to Waterford’s historic charm, these cities offer unique paths to your new life abroad. When you’re ready to make the big move, let Remitly help manage your finances with secure, reliable international money transfers from the comfort of your mobile phone.
FAQs
American expats tend to settle in Dublin for its vibrant culture, job opportunities, and access to transportation. Other popular areas include Cork and Galway, which offer beautiful coastal views and a relaxed lifestyle.
In general, all major Irish cities are welcoming to American expatriates. However, Dublin, Cork, and Galway have larger expat communities, mainly thanks to their friendly locals.
Dublin, Cork, and Galway are the top cities in Ireland for American expats. Each city offers different things, making it easier for expats to find a place to call home.
Ireland has a public healthcare system called the Health Service Executive (HSE). Expatriates living in Ireland can choose between public and private health insurance. Public healthcare is high quality, but wait times may be longer for non-urgent appointments. Private healthcare offers faster access to treatment.
The cost of living in Ireland can vary depending on location. Housing and transportation prices in Ireland are comparable to those in the US, but groceries and utilities may be slightly higher. However, Ireland offers a good quality of life with excellent public services.
