Exchange in Ireland: cost of living in Dublin 2025
Do you dream of doing an exchange in Ireland but are worried about the costs? Dublin is one of the most vibrant cities in Europe and a destination increasingly sought after by Brazilians who want study and work in Ireland. Although it's considered an expensive city, with proper planning and the right information, it's totally possible to have an incredible experience without breaking the budget.
Why Dublin is such an attractive destination for exchange students
Dublin combines history, vibrant culture and excellent professional opportunities. The Irish capital is home to the European headquarters of technology giants such as Google, Facebook and Apple, creating a hot market for young professionals. For those considering Work part-time during an exchange, Dublin offers some of the best opportunities in Europe.
The city is also renowned for the hospitality of the Irish people and for being an incredible cultural hub, with live music in virtually every pub, year-round festivals, and a rich literary history. Not to mention that it's an excellent gateway to exploring all of Europe on the weekends!
Full breakdown of costs in Dublin
Accommodation: the biggest expense in your budget
Accommodation represents around 40-50% of monthly spending in Dublin. The amounts vary significantly depending on the location and type of housing:
Shared room:
- Central Dublin: €550-650 per month
- Neighborhoods close to the center: €450-550 per month
- Outlying areas: €400-500 per month
Single room:
- Central Dublin: €1,100-1,300 per month
- Nearby neighborhoods: €800-1,000 per month
- Peripheral areas: €650-850 per month
Hint: Consider neighborhoods like Rathmines, Ranelagh, or Drumcondra. They offer excellent value for money with good public transport connection to the center.
Food: how to save without sacrificing quality
With €300-350 per month for food, you can maintain a balanced diet by shopping at local supermarkets:
Most economical supermarkets:
- Lidl and Aldi: up to 30% cheaper
- Tesco and Dunnes: intermediate options
- SuperValu: more expensive, but with good variety
Example of a weekly shopping budget:
- Basic products: €50-60
- Fruit and vegetables: €15-20
- Meats and proteins: €20-25
- Weekly total: €85-105
Eating out occasionally also fits the budget: a pub lunch costs between €12-18, while a full restaurant meal is between €20-30.
Transportation: moving around the city
Public transport in Dublin is efficient but can weigh on the budget:
Monthly student pass: €115
Leap Card (individual): €2.50 per bus trip
Dart (train): €3-5 depending on the distance
Many students choose to bike, especially in summer. Dublin has a bike sharing system (DublinBikes) that costs just €25 per year for students.
Basic household accounts
If you share an apartment, your monthly bills will be around:
- Electricity: €35-45 (divided)
- Gas: €40-50 (divided)
- Internet: €15-20 (divided)
- Total: €90-115 per month
How much can you earn working
One of Ireland's great advantages is the possibility of working during the exchange. With the Minimum wage increase in Ireland in 2025, students now receive €13.50 per hour.
Calculation of monthly income (20 hours a week):
- 20 hours/week × €13.50 = €270/week
- €270 × 4.3 weeks = €1,161/month (gross)
- After tax: approximately €1,000/month
This amount can easily cover your expenses with food, transportation and even leftovers for leisure and small trips around Europe!
Sectors that employ the most exchange students
Dublin offers excellent job opportunities for international students:
Hospitality and tourism: Restaurants, pubs, hotels and hostels always need temporary staff, especially during high season.
Customer service: With so many multinationals in the city, there is a constant demand for bilingual professionals in call centers and support.
Retail: Downtown stores and shopping malls frequently hire students for part-time work.
Technology: For those with a technical background, there are internship opportunities and part-time work in startups and technology companies.
Realistic budget for different profiles
Economic student: €900-1,000/month
- Shared room in remote area: €450
- Food (mainly supermarket): €250
- Shipping: €115
- Basic accounts: €90
- Leisure/emergency: €95
Standard student: €1,200-1,400/month
- Shared room close to the center: €550
- Mixed food (house + restaurants): €300
- Shipping: €115
- Basic accounts: €100
- Leisure/travel: €200
- Emergency: €135
Comfortable student: €1,600-1,800/month
- Single room in good location: €800
- Varied food: €350
- Shipping: €115
- Basic accounts: €110
- Leisure/travel: €300
- Emergency/extras: €225
Smart strategies for saving
Housing Tips
Search in advance: Start looking for accommodation at least 2 months before you travel. Use sites like Daft.ie, Rent.ie and Facebook groups.
Consider initial homestay: For the first few months, a host family may be more cost-effective and help with adjustment.
Divide everything: In addition to rent, share internet, streaming services, and even grocery shopping with your flatmates.
Economy in everyday life
Take advantage of student programs: Dublin offers discounts at cinemas, theaters, museums, and even some restaurants.
Cook as a group: Host collaborative dinners with your housemates. It's cheaper and a great way to socialize.
Explore free activities: Dublin has dozens of free events weekly - from shows in pubs to exhibitions in galleries.
Financial planning before the trip
For a smooth exchange, we recommend having at least:
Initial booking: €3,000-4,000 (equivalent to 3-4 months of expenses) Proof for a visa: €4,500 (official requirement) Course and fees: €2,000-4,000 (depending on duration)
This reservation allows you to settle down without pressure in the first few months, while looking for work and adapting to the city.
How to divide your resources
First three months: Use your reservation to cover all expenses while getting settled
Starting in the fourth month: Your part-time salary must cover basic expenses
Emergency reserve: Always keep €1,000 for unforeseen situations
Comparing Dublin to other European cities
Despite its high costs, Dublin offers excellent value for money when compared to other European capitals. London is around 25% more expensive, while Paris has similar rents but lower salaries for students.
Dublin's advantage lies in the ease of obtaining part-time work and the quality of life offered. Not to mention that, as a member of the European Union, you have easy access to travel across the continent!
Dublin vs other Irish cities
If Dublin seems too expensive, consider other Irish cities that offer exchange programs:
Cork: 20-25% cheaper than Dublin, with good quality of life
Galway: Vibrant university city, 30% lower costs
Limerick: Most economical option, growing technological hub
Each one has its own peculiarities, but all offer characteristic Irish hospitality and work opportunities for students.
Be Easy
Na Be Easy, we understand that the cost of living is one of the main concerns of those who dream of an exchange in Ireland. Our specialized team is ready to help you plan every financial aspect of your trip, from choosing the ideal program to exclusive tips for saving in Dublin. We offer full documentation support, housing guidance, and even connections with other Brazilian exchange students who can share accommodation. Contact us and make your Irish dream a reality with complete security and planning!
