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Waterford, Ireland
Capital City

Follows Ireland Residency Rules. Check Digital Nomad & Retiree Pathways →
Est. Monthly Cost (1 Person)
$2,530
Retiree Score
91.0
Safety Index
55.4
Healthcare
19 facilities

At just 48,369 residents, Waterford is Ireland's fifth-largest city, but don't let the modest population fool you - this historic Viking port packs a bureaucratic punch. Despite its scenic harbor and medieval architecture, the city's local government is the result of a 2014 merger that has created a sprawling 32-councillor authority. And while the "Sunny Southeast" region enjoys a mild maritime climate, the city sees considerable rainfall from October through January. Still, Waterford's long history as a commercial hub means it offers a range of cultural attractions, from the Waterford Crystal visitor center to the annual Spraoi street festival. For those seeking an authentic Irish experience outside the Dublin bubble, Waterford could be an alluring, if administratively challenging, choice.

Can I afford Waterford?

$

Waterford

You could save

470/mo

Savings Rate16%

Monthly Costs

Rent $1,450
Living (Country Average Adjusted)$1,080

Attractiveness Scores

FIRE Score
(i)
16/100
Retiree Score
(i)
91/100
Lifestyle Score
(i)
48/100
💻Nomad Score
(i)
50/100
Meets Ireland Digital Nomad Visa Income Rule.
55
Safety
19
Healthcare
100
Walkability
50
Nomad

Grocery Basket

Milk (1L) $1
Bread (loaf) *$3
Eggs (12) $4
Rice (1kg) *$2
Chicken (1kg) *$11

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Eating Out

Meal (Inexpensive) *$23
Meal (Mid-range) $110
Cappuccino $4
Water (0.33L) *$2

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Utilities & Lifestyle

Utilities (mo) $222
Mobile Plan (mo) $26
Gym (mo) *$48
Cinema Ticket $16

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Housing

1BR Center (mo) $580
1BR Outside (mo) *$609
3BR Center (mo) $1,040
3BR Outside (mo) *$970

* Estimated based on regional averages.

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Widely Spoken
Expat Community
Medium
Top Neighborhoods
Dunmore East
Best For
families, retirees

Expat Life Notes

The oldest city in Ireland, hosting a growing community of tech workers and retirees.

Pros

  • ✓ High safety
  • ✓ Coastal proximity
  • ✓ Rich history

Cons

  • ✗ Housing shortage
  • ✗ Quiet nightlife

🌐 Infrastructure & Lifestyle

Avg Internet
—
Temperature
—
Annual Rainfall
1362 mm
Coworking Spaces
—
Best Months to Visit
Jun, Jul, Aug

Also Consider

Limerick, IrelandAttractiveness Score: 55.4Galway, IrelandAttractiveness Score: 55.4Andorra la Vella, AndorraLiving in Andorra la Vella offers tax benefits and mountain living, but prepare for high costs and bureaucracy. Ideal for tax-savvy expats who prioritize outdooSquamish, CanadaLiving in Squamish, Canada offers outdoor adventure and proximity to Vancouver, but high rents make it a pricey FIRE option despite its natural appeal.

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Waterford

Click any question to expand the answer.

Waterford has a population of approximately 48,369 people.

A single person can expect to spend around $3,625 per month in Waterford, including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $1450/month.

The nearest airport to Waterford is ORK, approximately 104km away.

Waterford is considered moderate in terms of safety, with a safety index of 55.4. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.

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