Guides
Where will you live?
Accommodation is often the hardest part of moving to Ireland. Here’s a quick comparison of the main options so you can plan a budget that’s realistic.
Host family
Best for: under‑18s, first months
- + Practise English daily
- + Usually includes meals
- − Less independence
- − Variable quality
Student residence
Best for: short stays, social life
- + Meet other students
- + Bills included
- − Most expensive option
- − Limited availability
Private rental / shared
Best for: long stays (6+ months)
- + Cheapest per month
- + Full independence
- − Hard to find in Dublin
- − Need deposit + references
Tips before you book
- • Never pay a full deposit by bank transfer to a private landlord you haven’t met. Use the school’s booked accommodation for at least the first 2–4 weeks.
- • In Dublin and Cork, rental supply is tight — start searching Daft.ie and Rent.ie before you arrive.
- • Filter schools that offer host family or student residence if you want one less thing to organise.