Is Dublin More Expensive Than London? Understanding Living Costs

When planning a move to one of these European capitals, one of the first questions that comes to mind is: “Is Dublin more expensive than London?”. This question is crucial for anyone considering relocation between these two thrilling cities. As an international European removal company, we understand the importance of budgeting and financial planning for such moves. This article will tackle the basics we must consider before giving our verdict.

Cost of Living Comparison: Dublin vs. London

Housing and Rent: The costs don’t differ much when calculating euros vs. pounds. Both places hold their expensive accommodations to the maximum compared to other European capitals. The real problem is that often limited supply, competition and high demand cause prices to increase, making it hard to find better offers. As is the current case within Ireland, according to The Irish Times, prices could increase by 5% this year. However, recent numbers show that renting or buying in London has experienced a decline. Prices have decreased by 1.4% in twelve months to December 2023, as confirmed by the UK House Price Index. There’s a prediction that it will continue to fall, but indicators point that the situation could turn quicker than renters and buyers expected, so if you are looking forward to one of these options, now is the time.

Daily Expenses and Utilities: Beyond housing, daily expenses such as food, transportation, and utilities contribute to the cost of living. London offers a larger scale of options, which can be more budget-friendly, depending on the area. Dublin, while smaller, can sometimes have higher prices for everyday goods and services due to import costs. This makes the question “Is it cheaper to live in Ireland or London?” slightly more complex, depending on lifestyle choices.

Transportation: London’s extensive public transport system is often more expensive than Dublin’s. However, considering London’s size, the need for frequent transport is greater, which can add to living costs.

A Bit More of the Basic Features: Dublin vs London

General view: Dublin is one of the world’s top ten most expensive cities. London is much larger and has more variety than Dublin. The downsize of London is exactly the great amount of things; it is a lot, and it could overwhelm you if you are not used to or looking forward to being away from the agitation. That’s where Dublin wins, the amount of open spaces, beaches and general natural scenery gives a larger chance for a more relaxed life. London is perfect if you’re looking for adventure and a more independent style, but Dublin is the place for you if you’re seeking a family environment.

Seeking Shelter: Phibsbourrhood is searched by students and expats. You can find picturesque bars and delicious pizza places. Great for its low price whether you want to rent or buy. You can find a two-bed house for 1500 euros/month. The chances are you’ll find rent prices salty anyway, but if you search along the north circular, the odds are you will end up finding a better offer compared to the other places nearby. Compared with London, you could find areas with more attractive prices, such as Bexley, where you can pay £1,350/month.

Public Transport: London wins here: tube, tram, buses… You choose, and the only problem will be being able to move since the busy traffic is almost always there. In Dublin, the most famous are trams and buses. The traffic is a bit better, but rush hours are similar everywhere. The common tip between these two is the acquisition of a monthly pass. This will save you tons.

Friendly Environment: Dublin is friendlier. It’s common to experience chit-chats between strangers and be greeted daily. The chances of having this in London are way smaller.

Food: Most of Dublin’s food is imported, adding a lot to the final bill. The price is quite similar to the average in London. You must always search for better prices in local markets, stock nonperishables of current use whenever you find good prices, and try to have a diverse diet that allows you to invest in seasonal fruits. Their prices will be lowered by the quantity being produced. 

Tax Considerations in the UK and Ireland

When discussing finances, it’s pertinent to ask: “Is tax higher in the UK or Ireland?” Tax rates can significantly affect your net income. Ireland generally has higher income tax rates than the UK, but this can be offset by lower VAT and corporate tax rates, making it an attractive location for businesses.

Choosing Between Dublin and London: Lifestyle and Opportunities

Cultural and Social Life: Deciding whether to go to Dublin or London depends on personal preferences and lifestyle. London boasts a more international, diverse environment with countless cultural, educational, and professional opportunities. Dublin offers a smaller, perhaps more tightly-knit community with rich cultural traditions and an attractive nightlife.

Employment Opportunities: Employment is another critical factor. London is known for its vast array of industries and opportunities, particularly in finance, technology, and creative sectors. Dublin, while smaller, has become a tech hub, with many significant companies setting up European headquarters there.

Educational Facilities: Both cities offer excellent educational institutions, with London providing more variety due to its larger size. However, with its reputable universities and colleges, Dublin is not far behind.

The Verdict and the Move

In conclusion, answering “Is Dublin more expensive than London?” requires a nuanced approach, considering various factors like housing, taxes, daily living costs, and personal lifestyle choices. Whether choosing Dublin or London, it’s essential to consider all aspects to make an informed decision that best suits your needs and budget. For your international relocation needs, prioritise a service known for its reliability, extensive industry experience, full insurance coverage, global shipment tracking, and positive reviews, with services tailored to your unique situation. Whether moving to Ireland or the UK can be less burdensome when you have your belongings in hands you can trust. So, put some effort into choosing a great one. It is better to be safe than sorry. Speaking of which, we invite you to reach out for a no-cost estimate or to have any of your doubts addressed at VanOne International Movers to ensure the safe and timely delivery of your possessions to Ireland and let you focus on balancing your savings to plan the best budget of your new life.