Cost of Living: London vs Dublin (2026)
United Kingdom vs Ireland — relocation comparison
1BR centre
At each city's local median pay
Open incentive regimes for newcomers
- VAT-free under €105k
- 9% social
- €600/yr accountant
- VAT-free under €40k
- 4% social
- €1000/yr accountant
Sourced from Numbeo · Updated April 2026
Verdict delivered. Your move.
Sources: Numbeo · UNODC · Ookla · WHO · EIU · Gallup · World Bank · Freedom House · Updated April 2026
Sun
How much sky you actually get
Sun clocks out before 5pm in both cities come December. Plan accordingly.
Source: WeatherSpark (clear-sky share of daytime hours)
Settler Essentials
Visa stamps:Easy <90 daysModerate 3–6 moComplex 6+ mo
Sources: EIU · Freedom House · Startup Genome · official immigration portals
Reproductive Rights
Because your body shouldn't need a visa too
Requires two doctors' approval under Abortion Act 1967, but broadly available up to 24 weeks.
On request up to 12 weeks since 2018 referendum. Mandatory 3-day waiting period.
Source: Center for Reproductive Rights
LGBTQ+ Rights
Can you hold hands without doing a risk assessment first
London vs Dublin — Common Questions
Is London cheaper than Dublin?▾
Dublin is cheaper. A 1-bedroom apartment in city centre costs around $2522/month there vs $3000/month in the other city (Numbeo data).
Which is safer, London or Dublin?▾
Dublin is statistically safer based on UNODC homicide data. London has a rate of 1.07 per 100,000 and Dublin has 0.88 per 100,000.
Should I move to London or Dublin?▾
Dublin edges ahead 67 to 61. London isn't far behind — it depends what matters to you. See the full comparison above for rent, safety, internet speed, climate, and democracy scores to decide which city fits your priorities.
Is it easier to get residency in London or Dublin?▾
London: UK Skilled Worker Visa (complex process, Up to 5 years). Dublin: Ireland Critical Skills Employment Permit (complex process, 2 years (then Stamp 4)). See each city's profile page for full requirements.
Which has better weather, London or Dublin?▾
London is warmer in summer (72°F vs 64°F). Dublin has milder summers, which suits those who prefer cooler weather. Climate preference is personal — use the weather section above to compare seasons.
What's the cost of rent in London vs Dublin?▾
A 1-bedroom in the centre: $2522/month in Dublin, $3000/month in London (Numbeo). That's 16% cheaper rent in Dublin.
Is London or Dublin better for democracy and rule of law?▾
Dublin scores 9.2/10 on the EIU Democracy Index vs 8.3/10 for London. That puts it in 'full democracy' territory — free press, independent courts, the works.
Plot twist: other matchups exist
Maybe the real city was the comparisons we made along the way.
Let the algorithm judge you
2 min quiz — surprisingly accurate
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