Dublin’s rental market is notoriously tight and expensive, with one-bedroom apartments routinely costing $2,200 to $2,600 per month in the city center. If you’re relocating to Ireland for work in Dublin but struggling to find housing — or simply want more space for your money — commuter towns can be a practical alternative. You’ll trade some travel time for lower rent, easier availability, and often a quieter lifestyle.
Here’s a breakdown of the most popular commuter towns, what they cost, and how to get to Dublin from each.
What Makes a Good Commuter Town?
When evaluating commuter towns, consider three factors: transport links, rental availability, and amenities. The best towns have direct train or bus routes into Dublin city center (ideally under an hour), a reasonable supply of rental properties, and enough local shops, cafes, and services that you’re not dependent on Dublin for everything.
Most commuters rely on Irish Rail (Iarnród Éireann) or Bus Éireann services. A monthly train pass from many commuter towns costs between $260 and $330, and you can use your Leap card for both train and Dublin Bus once you arrive. Check irishrail.ie and buseireann.ie for current timetables and fares.
Top Commuter Towns North and West of Dublin
Maynooth (County Kildare) is about 25 kilometers west of Dublin and takes roughly 35 minutes by train to Connolly Station. It’s a university town with a young population, good cafes, and a historic campus. One-bedroom apartments rent for around $1,500 to $1,800 per month — significantly cheaper than Dublin. Trains run frequently during peak hours, making it a solid choice for daily commuters.
Drogheda (County Louth) is farther north, about 50 kilometers from Dublin, with a train journey of around 45 minutes to Connolly. It’s a larger town with more amenities, including supermarkets, gyms, and restaurants. Rents are lower again: expect $1,300 to $1,600 for a one-bedroom. Drogheda has a growing population of newcomers and families who work in Dublin but prefer a quieter base.
Dundalk (County Louth) is even farther north — about 80 kilometers from Dublin — with a train time of roughly one hour. It’s better suited to those who don’t commute daily or who work hybrid schedules. Rent is cheaper still, often $1,100 to $1,400 for a one-bedroom, and the town has good schools and services.
Top Commuter Towns South of Dublin
Greystones (County Wicklow) is a coastal town about 30 kilometers south of Dublin, with a scenic train ride of around 50 minutes to Pearse Station. It’s popular with families and professionals who want access to the sea and hiking. Rent is closer to Dublin prices — $1,800 to $2,100 for a one-bedroom — but the quality of life and natural surroundings are a big draw.
Bray (County Wicklow) is closer to Dublin (about 20 kilometers south) and takes around 40 minutes by DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit). It’s a seaside town with a promenade, cafes, and good transport links. Rent runs from $1,500 to $1,900 for a one-bedroom. Bray has a mix of young professionals and families, and it’s well connected to Dublin for both work and social life.
Gorey (County Wexford) is farther south — about 90 kilometers from Dublin — and takes around 90 minutes by bus or train. It’s a market town with lower rents ($1,000 to $1,300 for a one-bedroom) and is best for remote workers or those commuting only a few days a week.
Practical Tips for Commuter Town Living
Before committing to a lease, do a test commute during rush hour. Train delays and overcrowding can happen, especially on popular routes during morning and evening peaks. Check whether your employer offers tax-free commuter benefits or flexible working arrangements — many Irish companies now support hybrid schedules, which can make a longer commute more manageable.
When searching for rentals, use daft.ie and rent.ie, and be prepared to move quickly when you find a suitable place. Commuter towns can have easier rental markets than Dublin, but competition is still real. Have your references, proof of employment, and deposit ready.
Register with the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB) once you sign a lease — your landlord is required to do this, but it’s worth confirming. You’ll have the same tenant rights whether you live in Dublin or a commuter town.
Finally, budget for transport costs. A monthly train pass can add $260 to $330 to your expenses, but you’ll often save more than that in rent compared to living in Dublin. Factor in the trade-off between commute time, cost, and quality of life when making your decision.
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