Ireland
Europe · Dublin · EUR
62
QoL Score
Ireland's appeal has subtly shifted over the last five years, moving from an emerging tech hub to a more mature, yet still highly competitive, destination. Its Quality of Life score stands at a respectable 62/100, tempered by a Cost of Living score of 57/100, indicating a significant financial outlay where prices are 115% of the US average. While safety is a standout at 93/100, the climate, with an average temperature of 10°C and only 1400 hours of sunshine annually, remains a consistent challenge for many. The nation's advanced digital infrastructure, reflected in a 70/100 Internet score, continues to attract a digitally-reliant workforce.
Tax Overview
Top Rate
40.0%
Effective Rate
31.0%
at €46,300
VAT
23%
Net Income
€31,947
Quality of Life Scores
A Cost of Living score of 57/100, with prices 15% higher than the US average, points to substantial financial demands for residents. A median salary of $50,490 USD/year offers a degree of cushioning, but careful budgeting will be essential to navigate the higher price levels, especially in major urban centers.
The Climate score of 38/100, driven by an average temperature of 10°C and a mere 1400 hours of sunshine annually, clearly indicates a predominantly cool, overcast environment. Individuals accustomed to warmer, brighter climates will find this a significant adjustment, requiring preparation for consistent mild, often damp, weather.
Ireland's Safety score of 93/100 is exceptionally high, underpinned by a homicide rate of just 0.6 per 100,000 people and a Global Peace Index of 1.31. This robust data suggests a very secure environment for residents, making it an attractive destination for families and those prioritizing personal security.
With a Healthcare score of 55/100, Ireland presents a mixed picture. While a life expectancy of 82 years is positive, the ratio of 3.3 physicians per 10,000 people indicates a potential strain on medical resources. Expats should research local healthcare access and consider private insurance options to supplement public provisions.
An Internet score of 70/100, with 92% of the population as users and 31 out of 100 having broadband subscriptions, positions Ireland as a well-connected nation. This robust digital infrastructure is highly advantageous for remote workers and businesses requiring reliable, high-speed connectivity.
The Taxation score of 53/100 reflects a moderate to high tax burden. A 20% tax rate on income up to $42,000 and 40% thereafter, combined with substantial social contributions and a 23% VAT, means a significant portion of income will be directed towards public coffers. Understanding these brackets and the 400% social contributions is critical for financial planning.
What Things Cost
Price Index: 102 (US = 100)Big Mac
$5.70
☕Starbucks Tall Latte
$5.00
📱iPhone 16 128GB
$900.00
⛽1L Gasoline (95)
$1.80
🎬Netflix Standard (monthly)
$14.00
🏠Airbnb Studio (city center)
$115.00
🍺Beer 500ml (bar)
$7.50
🚇Single Transit Ticket
$2.50
Cities in Ireland
NLV varies within a country. Cost of living and climate differ by city.
Extended data
Public datasets beyond the NLV score — Ireland
Sources: World Happiness Report (Gallup via OWID), World Bank, WHO, OECD, UNDP. These metrics are not part of the NLV score — they enrich the picture of Ireland with public data. Click any card above to see the full ranking across 36 countries.
Crypto tax
How Ireland taxes a private crypto investor — not part of the NLV score
Crypto gains are taxed at a flat 33% Capital Gains Tax regardless of holding period, with a €1,270 annual personal exemption; staking and mining rewards are taxed as income at marginal rates (up to about 52% with PRSI and USC).
Full Irelandcrypto tax guide & examples →Crypto tax is national — these rules apply to a private individual investor, not a professional trader or company, and are not part of the NLV score. This is general information, not tax advice — rules change and depend on your residency and circumstances. Confirm with the linked tax authority or a qualified adviser.
Who Should Consider Ireland
Ireland is particularly suited for professionals in sectors like tech, finance, or pharmaceuticals who command competitive salaries that can offset the higher cost of living. Individuals prioritizing personal safety, evidenced by a 93/100 Safety score, will find reassurance here. Remote workers seeking a European base with excellent connectivity (70/100 Internet score) and high English proficiency (100/100) will also thrive, provided they are comfortable with the cooler climate and navigating visa complexities given the lack of a dedicated digital nomad visa.
Key Considerations
Prospective residents must realistically evaluate the cost of living, which significantly outpaces many European counterparts, with prices 15% above the US average. The absence of a dedicated digital nomad visa, alongside a 55/100 Visa openness score, means non-EU/EEA remote workers will face a more traditional visa application process. Furthermore, the climate, characterized by an average 10°C and limited sunshine, will be a notable adjustment for many. Finally, while healthcare achieves an 82-year life expectancy, the physician-to-population ratio indicates potential access challenges.
Key Facts
Data last updated: · Sources: World Bank, WHO, OECD, national tax authorities. See methodology.