Accommodation in Dublin

Finding reasonably priced accommodation in Dublin is no easy task. Rental costs continue to rise as the city’s real estate market struggles with high demand and limited supply. As many big multinational businesses move their headquarters to Dublin, the demand for and cost of rental properties are skyrocketing. Renting in the city centre, in particular, has become a rather costly affair.

Younger individuals may prefer to be near the action of the city centre, while those with families tend to look further afield towards the suburbs, where space isn’t at such a premium. It really comes down to the type of lifestyle you are interested in. Proximity to transport, schools, economic hubs, sports facilities, parks and so on should also be considered before buying or renting a property.

Areas and suburbs in Dublin

Dublin is divided into areas referred to as zones, which are included in all addresses. Generally, the lower the zone number, the closer it is to the city centre. Higher numbers tend to be in suburbs on the city outskirts. So, the higher the zone number, typically the lower the rent. The city is further divided into north and south by the River Liffey. Zones to the north of the river are odd numbers, while even-numbered zones are to the south.

As in most cities, some areas in Dublin are more expensive than others. South Dublin is more expensive than the north, while the city centre mostly offers upmarket apartments and rowhouse options, which come at sometimes jaw-dropping prices.

Choosing where to live in Dublin can drastically change your lifestyle. From the laid-back beaches in North Dublin to the hustle and bustle of city-centre living, you can explore a diverse range of areas. Consider the proximity to your workplace, good schools and public transport when choosing a neighbourhood. Traffic can be heavy, and commutes of an hour or more each way are not unheard of.

Popular areas include Seapoint, Killiney, Ranelagh and Clontarf. You might also consider The Liberties, Stoneybatter, Phibsborough and Drumcondra for their unique atmospheres, from historic charm to trendy, up-and-coming vibes.

Read more about the Best Areas and Suburbs in Dublin.

Types of accommodation in Dublin

Dublin offers a variety of housing options to suit different needs and lifestyles. The most common types of housing you can expect are apartments and semi-detached rowhouses. Apartments range from studios to multi-bedroom units and can be found both in the city centre and suburbs. Terraced and semi-detached houses are typically located in the suburbs, offering more space.

City centre properties tend to be smaller and more expensive but offer proximity to amenities and public transport. Suburban areas offer more space with houses and larger apartments, generally at lower rents, though they may require more commuting. Modern developments with amenities are more common in the suburbs, while the city centre has more historic period housing.

Free-standing houses are more common towards the city’s outskirts. Older houses and apartments are usually more spacious, while rent tends to be lower the farther away you go from the city centre. Many younger individuals and students in Dublin choose to live in house shares, where you have your own bedroom but share the common living areas of an apartment or house.

House shares are a cost-effective option, allowing you to save on rent compared to renting alone. It’s also a great way to meet new people and build relationships. However, it comes with potential downsides like less privacy and potential conflicts with housemates.

Furnished vs unfurnished

Most apartments and houses in Dublin come fully furnished, including couches, tables, dressers and kitchen appliances. Furnished properties are convenient for short-term tenants, students or those relocating. Unfurnished units allow you to bring your own furniture and personalise the space. Landlords may charge a premium for furnished properties, but this is not always the case.

Short lets

Short-term or temporary accommodation options include hotels, hostels and vacation rentals, especially popular in the city centre. These are ideal if you’re in Dublin for a short period or while you’re searching for a more permanent place.

Finding accommodation in Dublin

Real estate agencies are the most straightforward way to find accommodation in Dublin. Unlike in many other countries, rental agencies in Dublin often bill you rather than the property owner. The equivalent of one month’s rent is usually the accepted fee.

Some top real estate agencies in Dublin include Casey Kennedy Estate Agents, DNG Central Dublin Estate Agents, O’Connor Estate Agents and Keller Williams Ireland. These agencies offer services for buying, selling, renting and managing properties.

If you prefer the DIY route, try your luck with online property portals like Rent.ie, Daft.ie and MyHome.ie. These sites have a large selection of rental listings, allowing you to filter properties by location, price and size.

Another effective way to find rentals is through word of mouth. Let friends, colleagues or classmates know you’re looking for a place. Check notice boards at universities, workplaces or community centres for rental ads. Joining local Facebook groups related to your area of Dublin can also help you find subletting opportunities. The rental market in Dublin moves very quickly, so be prepared with all necessary documentation like proof of identity, income, references and a CV.

Useful links

• DNG Central Dublin Estate Agents
• MyHome.ie
• Daft.ie
• Rent.ie

Renting accommodation in Dublin

Making an application

Once you find a potential new home to your taste, submit an application quickly, as there will likely be other interested parties. You will need to provide proof of identity (passport or driving licence), proof of income (pay slips, employment contract, bank statements), an employer reference, a previous landlord reference and your PPS (Personal Public Service) number. Landlords or agents will typically perform background and credit checks.

Deposits

Landlords in Dublin generally expect a rental deposit of one to three months’ rent. To ensure you get your deposit back in full, thoroughly clean the property and remove all your belongings before moving out. Take dated photos to document the property’s condition, request a final inspection with the landlord/agent, provide forwarding address details and pay all outstanding rent and utility bills.

Landlords can make deductions from the deposit for rent arrears, damage beyond normal wear and tear and unpaid utility bills. They must provide receipts or invoices to justify any deductions.

Leases

You can choose between fixed-term and periodic tenancies in most apartments. Fixed-term tenancies cover rental for a set period as specified in the lease, and the landlord generally cannot end the tenancy before the end of the fixed term unless both parties agree or one party breaches the lease. Periodic tenancies do not have a fixed end date and run week-to-week or month-to-month. This type gives both landlord and tenant the right to end the tenancy at any time with appropriate notice.

Useful links

• Citizens Information: Renting a home

Utilities in Dublin

The first thing you should know about utilities in Ireland is that there’s no such term as ‘utilities.’ Gas, water, electricity and refuse services are referred to as ‘the bills,’ and you will likely be met with blank stares if you mention ‘utilities.’

To lower your utility costs in Dublin, consider switching to a cheaper electricity or gas supplier using price comparison sites. Improve your home’s energy efficiency with insulation, LED lights and energy-saving appliances. Monitor your usage with a real-time display and make behavioural changes to reduce consumption. You may also be eligible for government grants for home upgrades.

Electricity

The Electricity Supply Board remains the main electricity provider in Ireland, but there’s growing competition from companies like Bord Gáis Energy and Electric Ireland. The standard voltage in Ireland is 230V AC, and the cost of electricity is relatively high. Costs are based on the number of units used, and usage during off-peak hours costs less than during peak hours.

You can pay for electricity online through your supplier’s website or app, by direct debit from your bank account, at Payzone shops or by post with a cheque.

Gas

Gas is commonly used for cooking and heating in Ireland. It is provided via an underground pipe network managed by Gas Networks Ireland. Although one company manages the network, you can choose your own gas provider. Most electricity providers also offer gas services. Paying for gas is similar to paying for electricity – online, by direct debit, at Payzone shops or by post with a cheque.

Water

There are no direct charges for standard domestic water use in Dublin. Fees are only applied for excessive use of over 213,000 litres per year.

Bins and recycling

Charges for waste removal vary from area to area. Most houses or apartment buildings use a system of coloured bins to separate recyclables from other rubbish. Recycling bins are provided for glass, cans, plastic, paper and cardboard. Bring banks are available for bottles, textiles and green waste, while recycling centres accept bulky items, WEEE, batteries and more. Illegal dumping and littering are subject to fines.

Internet

Dublin has several top internet service providers, including Eir, Virgin Media, Sky and Vodafone. Eir and Virgin Media offer fibre broadband with speeds up to 1Gbps. Sky provides fibre broadband and TV bundles, while Vodafone offers fibre and SIRO fibre-to-the-building services. You can pay for internet services online through your provider’s website, by direct debit or with a credit/debit card.

See Keeping in Touch in Ireland for more on staying connected in the Emerald Isle.

Useful links

• Bord Gáis Energy
• Electric Ireland
• Irish Water