LifeCost Blog
Cork

Cork

Irland

Updated on August 09, 2025

Overview

Cork is Ireland's second-largest city and the main city of Munster province. With a population of approximately 228,000 in 2025, it offers a more affordable cost of living than Dublin while maintaining employment and educational opportunities. The city is known for its multicultural atmosphere and growing international community.

Average cost of living€2,724.91
Quality of Life86/100

Accommodation

Rent room (flat-share)€650.00
1-bed flat (center)€1,559.64
1-bed flat (outside)€1,292.58
3-bed flat (center)€2,793.37
3-bed flat (outside)€2,277.37

Utilities

Basic utilities€203.18
Internet€42.58
Mobile plan€18.97

Transportation

One-way ticket€2.10
Monthly pass€86.00
Taxi start€4.50
Gasoline (1 l)€1.76

Leisure

Cinema ticket€12.00
Fitness club€56.44

Education

Preschool (month)€1,160.00
Intl. primary (year)€6,333.33

Buying House

sqm in city center€4,100.44
sqm outside center€3,658.47

Advantages

  • Lower cost of living than Dublin
  • Multicultural and safe environment
  • Opportunities to study English and work
  • Accessible and friendly city
  • Stable economy with diverse job opportunities

Disadvantages

  • × Narrow and steep streets
  • × Less cultural offering than Dublin
  • × Humid and variable weather
  • × Complicated traffic in the center
  • × Fewer public transport options