What is the Cost of Living in Galway, Ireland?

Galway is the fifth-largest city in Ireland and has become an increasingly popular place for young people and students in recent years. As of April 2020, the cost of living for a single person in Galway is estimated to be at least €1130 per month. This figure includes monthly rent and other bills (utilities, food, etc.), as well as leisure expenditure such as eating out and shopping trips.

Rent prices vary drastically across Galway with average costs ranging from €550 per month for a one-bedroom apartment to €850 per month for a three-bedroom house. An important factor to take into account when searching for a rented property is the fact that the prices tend to increase depending on the proximity to the city center.

For example, the city center will cost you a lot more than a rental in one of the suburubs. Factors such as the size of the flat, landlord’s expectations, facilities available, etc. all influence the final rent cost.

Utility bills can also come at a significant cost, with water, electricity and Wi-Fi costing monthly around €85, €35 and €30 respectively. Also, depending on your habits, heating expenses may vary, but generally a single person should not need to spend more than €50 on a monthly basis in that area.

As for food prices, the costs of the weekly grocery shopping depend on the food products and brands you decide to purchase. Generally speaking with dinner meals an average cost comes around €10 – €15 per meal.

Galway offers a great variety of pubs, bars, cafés and restaurants where having dinner or grabbing a pint of beer with friends comes at an average price of €20 – €25 per person excluding drinks.

Finally, leisure activities can also take a bite out of your monthly budget. With gym memberships for a single person ranging from €40 to €50 depending on the gym facility, monthly bills for public transportation from €35 ( Leap Card), cinema tickets from €10 and theatre shows from €20 onwards it is important to consider these costs into your monthly budget.

Overall, depending on your lifestyle and individual habits, living in Galway can cost you up to €1300 or more per month. Setting up a budget plan including rent, bills and leisure expenditure will definitely help you limit your expenses and inevitably make your stay in this vibrant city more enjoyable and hassle free.

Sources: Numbeo Cost of Living & Rent.ie

An Insider’s Guide to Galway, Ireland

Galway is a picturesque city located on the west coast of Ireland. It is a popular tourist destination known for its vibrant culture, beautiful landscapes, and welcoming locals. However, before planning a trip, it is important to take into account the cost of living in Galway. In this guide, we’ll break down the costs of various expenses, as well as share recommendations for can’t-miss attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Cost of Living in Galway

As a tourist, it’s important to budget accordingly for your trip to Galway. Here are some estimates for the cost of living in Galway:

– Accommodation: The cost of hotel and Airbnb accommodations in Galway ranges between €50-200 per night, depending on the location and season.
– Food: A meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs around €13, while a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant costs upwards of €60. Groceries are also relatively affordable, with a week’s worth of food for two costing around €60-70.
– Transportation: Public transportation in Galway costs around €2 per ride, while taxi fares start at €4 and increase per kilometer.
– Attractions: Popular attractions like the Cliffs of Moher and the Connemara National Park have entrance fees of around €8-12 per person.

Must-Visit Tourist Attractions in Galway

– Eyre Square: One of Galway’s most iconic landmarks, Eyre Square is located in the heart of the city and boasts beautiful gardens and memorials.
– Galway Cathedral: This impressive cathedral is a must-see for architecture lovers, with its stunning interior and intricate design.
– Galway City Museum: This museum offers an in-depth look into the history of Galway, including its prehistoric, medieval, and modern eras.
– Salthill Promenade: A long promenade that offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Galway Bay, Salthill is a great place to take a walk or bike ride.
– Kylemore Abbey: Located just outside of Galway, this stunning abbey is a popular tourist attraction due to its beautiful gardens and historical significance.

Dining in Galway

Galway is known for its diverse food scene, with options ranging from traditional Irish dishes to international cuisine. Here are some of the best dining spots to try:

– Ard Bia at Nimmo’s: This cozy restaurant offers a farm-to-table menu with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
– Kai Restaurant: Kai is known for its creative, delicious dishes that blend Irish and international flavors.
– The Dough Bros: This popular pizza joint offers delicious wood-fired pizza with inventive toppings.
– McDonagh’s Fish and Chips: A local favorite, McDonagh’s is a must-visit for classic fish and chips.
– The Quays Bar: For a true Irish pub experience, head to The Quays Bar, which offers traditional pub food and live music.

Cultural Experiences in Galway

Galway is a hub for Irish culture, with plenty of opportunities to experience traditional music, dance, and literature. Here are some of the best cultural experiences to check out:

– Galway International Arts Festival: This annual arts festival showcases the best in Irish and international art, theater, music, and dance.
– Trad on the Prom: This immersive music and dance performance celebrates Irish cultural traditions and showcases the talents of local artists.
– Literature Walking Tour: Led by experienced guides, this walking tour takes visitors on a journey through Galway’s literary history, including stops at sites associated with famous Irish writers like W.B. Yeats and James Joyce.

Local History and Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Galway has a rich history, with plenty of hidden gems and lesser-known attractions to discover. Here are some off-the-beaten-path suggestions for visitors:

– St. Nicholas’ Collegiate Church: This stunning church dates back to the 1300s and is the largest medieval parish church in Ireland that is still in use today.
– The Long Walk: Take a stroll down this picturesque street, which is lined with colorful buildings and offers some of the best views of the Galway Bay.
– The Spanish Arch: This iconic arch is a remnant of Galway’s medieval past and offers a glimpse into the city’s history.
– Claddagh Village: This traditional fishing village is located just outside of Galway and is a great place to learn about local traditions and history.

In conclusion, Galway is a beautiful city with plenty to offer visitors, from its vibrant culture and stunning landscapes to its delicious food and rich history. By budgeting accordingly and following our insider recommendations, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience in Galway.