Limerick, located in Ireland’s picturesque mid-west region, has become an increasingly attractive place to live in recent years. With its mix of historic charm, modern infrastructure, strong educational institutions like the University of Limerick, and growing job opportunities in technology and pharmaceuticals, the city is drawing attention both locally and internationally.
But not all parts of Limerick offer the same lifestyle, safety, amenities, or property value. Choosing the best place to live in Limerick depends on your priorities—be it proximity to schools, safety, community feel, or housing costs. As someone who has lived in and explored multiple areas of Limerick, I want to share an informed, realistic, and research-supported guide to help you find the best fit for your lifestyle.
Top Places to Live in Limerick (2025 Update)
Here are some of the most recommended areas in Limerick for different lifestyles and needs, based on local insights, personal experience, and data from property portals like Daft.ie and MyHome.ie.
1. Castletroy – Best for Families & Professionals
Why Castletroy Stands Out:
- Proximity to University of Limerick (UL): Ideal for faculty, students, and staff.
- Modern housing estates like Castletroy Heights, Monaleen, and Oaklawns.
- Excellent schools, including Monaleen NS and Castletroy College.
- Tech hub: Nearby National Technology Park (Dell, Johnson & Johnson, Cook Medical).
- Parks & Recreation: Castletroy Park, playgrounds, and the UL riverside walks.
Local Insight:
I lived in Monaleen for over a year and loved the community-focused environment. It was quiet, safe, and perfect for walking or cycling to UL. Weekly farmer’s markets and the nearby shopping centre added convenience.
Property Prices (2025 estimate):
- 3-bed semi-detached: €320,000 – €375,000
- Rent for 2-bed apartment: €1,500–€1,800/month
2. Dooradoyle – Best for Healthcare Workers and Suburban Living
Why Dooradoyle?
- Near University Hospital Limerick (UHL) – convenient for medical staff.
- St. Paul’s and Crescent College – reputable schools.
- Crescent Shopping Centre – the largest in the mid-west.
- Quiet, established estates like Rosbrien and Gouldavoher.
Expert Tip:
Dr. Eimear Flanagan, a lecturer at UL, noted in a 2023 Irish Times feature that “Dooradoyle strikes a balance between urban connectivity and suburban comfort.”
Property Prices:
- 3-bed homes: €280,000–€350,000
- Rent for 2-bed: €1,400–€1,700/month
3. Annacotty – Best for Young Families and First-Time Buyers
Why Annacotty is Trending:
- Rapid development in the last decade.
- Close to Castletroy but more affordable.
- Strong community spirit.
- Good road links (M7) and bus routes to city centre.
Personal Experience:
Friends of mine moved to Annacotty with two young children. They’ve praised the friendly neighbours, access to GAA clubs, and nearby nature trails. It offers excellent value for money.
Property Prices:
- 3-bed semi-detached: €270,000–€330,000
- Rent for 2-bed: €1,300–€1,600/month
4. Raheen – Best for Working Professionals and Growing Families
Key Highlights:
- Close to industrial estates (Analog Devices, Stryker, Regeneron).
- Modern housing developments.
- Good school options and parks.
Community Vibe:
Raheen has a slightly older demographic, meaning more settled families. It’s calm and well-kept, with less student traffic compared to Castletroy.
5. City Centre (Newtown Pery, Henry Street) – Best for Young Professionals & Urban Lifestyle
Why Consider the City Centre?
- Lively and walkable.
- Great restaurants, pubs, and nightlife.
- Apartments with views of River Shannon.
- Refurbishment grants available for buyers in historic districts.
Challenges:
Parking is limited and noise can be an issue, particularly during weekends. Some streets have mixed reputations, so visit first or speak with locals.
Property/Rent Costs:
- 2-bed apartment: €240,000–€280,000
- Rent: €1,400–€1,700/month
Safety and Quality of Life in Limerick
Limerick has worked hard to move past its outdated “Stab City” label. Crime levels have decreased significantly, particularly in areas like Castletroy and Raheen. According to the CSO’s 2024 Crime Report, most reported incidents occur in specific inner-city zones and are not representative of the entire city.
Safe areas to consider:
- Monaleen
- Dooradoyle
- Annacotty
- North Circular Road (affluent, old-money area)
Schools and Education Quality
Limerick offers some of the best secondary education in Ireland, including:
- Laurel Hill Coláiste FCJ – consistently tops national rankings.
- Crescent College Comprehensive – strong academics and sports.
- Castletroy College – a high-performing community school.
Tertiary education is dominated by the University of Limerick, renowned for its co-op programs, research, and student satisfaction.
Public Transport and Accessibility
- Bus Eireann and Dublin Coach offer reliable city and intercity routes.
- Cycle lanes are expanding, especially in Castletroy and Raheen.
- Easy access to M7 motorway for travel to Dublin or Galway.
Cost of Living in Limerick vs Dublin
| Category | Limerick (€) | Dublin (€) |
|---|---|---|
| 2-bed apartment rent | 1,500 | 2,400 |
| Monthly groceries | 500–600 | 650–750 |
| Public transport | 80 | 120 |
Limerick is 20–35% cheaper than Dublin, making it ideal for remote workers or families wanting better value.
Common Questions About Living in Limerick
Q: Is Limerick safe?
Yes, especially in suburban areas like Castletroy, Dooradoyle, and Monaleen. The city has invested heavily in policing, CCTV, and community programs.
Q: What’s the best area for students?
Castletroy, Annacotty, and parts of the city centre are popular among students due to their proximity to UL and nightlife.
Q: Can I get good public schools?
Absolutely. Some of the top-rated secondary schools in Ireland are located in Limerick.
Q: What if I don’t drive?
Stick to bus-friendly areas like the city centre, Castletroy, or Dooradoyle. Many locals cycle or walk due to compact distances.
Tips for Choosing the Right Area
- Visit Before You Buy: Stay in Airbnb or guesthouses in your preferred area.
- Use Property Alert Tools: Daft.ie and MyHome.ie let you set alerts for new listings.
- Talk to Locals: Online forums like Boards.ie and Facebook community groups can be insightful.
- Consider Commute Time: Use Google Maps during rush hour to assess real travel time.
Conclusion: So, Where’s the Best Place to Live in Limerick?
If you’re looking for safety, excellent schools, green spaces, and access to tech hubs—Castletroy or Monaleen are top choices. For a balanced suburban feel with great amenities, Dooradoyle or Raheen may suit you best. Budget-conscious families might find Annacotty ideal, while young professionals could enjoy the city centre’s buzz.
Ultimately, the best place to live in Limerick depends on your lifestyle and stage of life—but rest assured, this dynamic city offers something for everyone.
Have Questions? Let’s Chat!
If you’re planning to move to Limerick or want personalized advice, feel free to leave a comment or reach out. I’m happy to share more insights, including school guides, commute tips, or even connections to local estate agents.
Hi, I’m Tanvir, the founder and author of Explore Ireland Now. With a deep love for Ireland and its rich culture, history, and landscapes, I created this site to share everything that makes this beautiful country worth exploring. Whether you’re a local looking for hidden gems or a traveler planning your next adventure, I provide insightful guides, tips, and recommendations to help you experience Ireland to the fullest.
From stunning landscapes to vibrant cities and quaint villages, Ireland is full of wonders waiting to be discovered. Through my personal experiences and research, I aim to bring you the most up-to-date information and inspiration for your journey.
Thank you for visiting Explore Ireland Now—I hope my content helps you uncover all that this incredible country has to offer! If you have any questions or need travel advice, feel free to reach out.
