11 Best Areas To Live In Dublin In 2024: A Complete Guide

Are you thinking about moving to Dublin and looking for the best areas to stay in Dublin? Dublin, the UNESCO City of Literature, is Ireland's largest city and capital known for its people's kindness. Located on the east coast of River Liffey, The Viking City is home to Europe's biggest city park! Of course, we cannot overlook how the city gets its name from an Old Irish Gaelic term which literally means “Black Pool.” Needless to say, Liffey City is one of the world’s oldest cities, and exploring its historical and cultural significance along with the affluent areas of Dublin is no less than fun. While Dublin has something for everyone, finding the best area for a new person in such a big place might take a lot of work. To make it a breeze for you, here is a complete list of the best places to live in Dublin for young professionals and students.  

11 Best Areas to Stay In Dublin

Dublin, Ireland's capital, thrives as a cultural hub rich in history, music, and arts. It's a magnet for families and expats seeking a high quality of life. Dublin boasts a booming tech scene that fosters the development of some of Europe's most desirable neighbourhoods. Over 160,000 students visit Dublin every year, making it a truly international city! You can board the DART and go a short distance along the Dublin coast to a quaint fishing village if the bustle of the city ever becomes too much. If you want to find the best neighbourhoods in Dublin, the following list will help. 

1. Smithfield

Cost of Living: €1,850/month
Nearby Universities: Dublin City University
Crime Rate: Low
Famous for: Jameson Whiskey Tour at the Old Jameson Distillery

Smithfield is a bustling neighbourhood full of culture and one of the best areas to stay in Dublin. Situated near Dublin’s financial district and the “Silicon Docks” hub, this area offers a short commute to the local hotspots. Here’s a quick look at the lifestyle options you can explore while finding the best neighbourhoods in Dublin. 

1. You can explore some of the best pubs in Dublin, sip in local craft beers or catch a live performance with your friends.
2. Watch independent films at Light House Cinema or visit The Generator for events.
3. Once an open market, Smithfield Square is now a wide cobblestone walkway surrounded by art deco coffee shops and poetic street art.
4. You can enjoy authentic Irish whiskey under the lofty wooden beam ceiling or take a tour of Jameson Whiskey Distillery for a small fee
5. Enjoy some of the indoor activities like visiting Historic St. Luke's Church and Imagine Art Studios. 

Being located in one of the best residential areas in Dublin, you can explore your options for student accommodation. If Smithfield has already been on your mind, Blackhall Place and Brunswick Court are the best places to live in Dublin for young professionals. 

2. Portobello

Cost of Living: €1,850/month
Nearby Universities: Dublin City University, Trinity College Dublin
Crime Rate: Low
Famous for: Old Irish Jewish Museum Tour

Portobello offers a youthful atmosphere with a mix of modern apartments and historic streets, making it the best place to live in Dublin for young professionals. The area is easily accessible, serviced by many bus routes and within walking distance from the city centre. Following are the lifestyle activities you must consider when in one of the safest areas in Dublin to live: 

1. Portobello's connection to the Grand Canal, including its role in Dublin's development, is fascinating for history buffs.
2. This is the safest place to live in Dublin, with several bakeries and cafes, making Portobello lively and perfect for families.
3. For a memorable coastal vacation, enjoy gorgeous beaches and the yearly Black Christ Festival.
4. Explore the ruins of Spanish forts at Portobello National Park, see the rebuilt treasure house, and learn about Sir Francis Drake's final resting place.
5. Relax in the beautiful St. Stephen's Green Park nearby and build your network by finding a strong sense of community. 

With a mix of history and tranquillity in the lovely Portobello district, this is undoubtedly one of the best places to stay in Dublin. You can also find several accommodation options, like Brickwork and Highlight Thomas Street, ensuring the perfect student living experience. 

3. Rathmines

Cost of Living: €982/month
Nearby Universities: Trinity College and University College Dublin  
Crime Rate: Low
Famous for: MART or Gerard Byrne Art Gallery

Located just 3 km from the city centre, Rathmines is popular among students, small families and professionals who have just moved into Dublin. Because the rent is low and you get a great deal for your money! Also, the excellent bus service and a short taxi ride from the city centre to your university are the reasons why you should consider Rathmines one of the best neighbourhoods to live in Dublin. On weekends, you can add the following activities to your itinerary: 

1. There's a fantastic selection of restaurants and pubs to try, and it's a great place to meet new people.
2. Watch a movie at the sleek Stella Theatre and explore the antique treasures of charity stores.
3. Enjoy drinks and dinner on neighbouring Baggot St, making for a memorable Dublin day out.
4. Generally considered one of the best places to live in Dublin, the area boasts transport links, including a hub for Dublin bus routes.
5. Perfect to immerse in the city buzz when you want to get away from the overwhelming feel of the city centre. 

Widely known among the safest areas in Dublin, you will never feel a shortage of perfect accommodation. You can consider Montrose, owing to its location, amenities, and everything that enhances your living experience. 

4. Drumcondra

Cost of Living: €1,500/month
Nearby Universities: Trinity College, Dublin City University, University College Dublin
Crime Rate: Low
Famous for: Croke Park and Tolka Park soccer stadium

Drumcondra is one of the best affordable places to live in Dublin, making it popular among students, young professionals and small families. Owing to its proximity to the university campuses, this is one of the most popular and best neighbourhoods in Dublin, brimming with a vibrant mix of youthful energy. If you want to know what you should do in Drumcondra, here are a few things to do: 

1. There is also a nice walk down the Tolka River, where you can take a coffee and stroll along the riverbank.
2. Visit Croke Park, one of Europe's largest stadiums, and the GAA Museum to learn about Irish sports history.
3. Discover the National Botanic Gardens, which houses endangered plant species, and the Glasnevin Cemetery Museum, which is a guardian of Irish legends.
4. Explore the bustling community of Gaelic football energy and catch a football match at Croke Park.
5. Drumcondra Library, one of the best libraries in Dublin, is an Art Deco gem and the perfect place to sit quietly and finish your book. 

Drumcondra is a fantastic choice to live in the centre of things without all the commotion and congestion. As it is one of the best places to stay in Dublin, you will not be far away from the city centre, museums, and historical sites. If you are a student looking for accommodation near this area, Beckett House is the best to look out for.

5. Stoney Batter

Cost of Living: €950/month
Nearby Universities: Dublin City University, technology University Dublin
Crime Rate: Medium
Famous for: Prominent Viking street names 

Dublin is one of the best cities to visit in Ireland, but Stoney Batter is one of the best areas to live in Dublin. Historically known as Bohernaglogh and located along the River Liffey, Stoneybatter is a neighbourhood on the north side, the best place to live in Dublin. Stoney Batter is a quirky, fun neighbourhood with some of the city's most exciting restaurants, and here are a few things to do during your stay: 

1. Discover the hippest neighbourhood with easy access to the city's attractions, local walks, and a variety of restaurants in one of the best areas to stay in Dublin.
2. Learn about the famous Stony Batter Famous Reserve, a bunker with underground storage that offers visits.
3. Take in the expansive vistas of the Coromandel Peninsula and Hauraki Gulf.
4. Enjoy a breath of fresh air at nearby Constitution Hill or Mountjoy Square Park.
5. Explore the vibrant pub scene, with pubs like The Strawberry Hall and The Brazen Head offering a taste of authentic Irish culture.

Stoney Batter is the perfect location for anyone looking for student accommodation in Dublin near green space. Highlight Parkgate is a popular student accommodation known for providing all of the necessary and student-centric features. 

6. D4

Cost of Living: €1,092/month
Nearby Universities: Royal College of Surgeons, Dublin Institute of Technology
Crime Rate: Medium
Famous for: Georgian architecture, RDS Arena 

D4, a part part in Dublin, is home to the majority of the upper-middle-class population. It is a fantastic alternative if you wish to stay in a central location without being in the middle of the city. Comprised of Ballsbridge, Sandymount, Irishtown, and Donnybrook, this is one of the best neighbourhoods in Dublin for young professionals. Here are a few things you can try in one of the most affluent areas in Dublin: 

1. Explore Irish art, history, and design from the prehistoric era to the 20th century at the National Museum of Ireland.
2. Marvel at a vast collection of manuscripts, rare books, and artefacts at Chester Beatty Library.
3. Catch a game at the scenic Ireland's national rugby stadium, Aviva Stadium Tour.
4. Go to Ballsbridge Racecourse to witness a thrilling horse racing event.
5. Catch a breath of fresh air in green areas like Herbert Park and Ringsend Park, or visit Hell Tide and Mystery Chests.  

Moreover, this region has a refined accent, which you can differentiate from the accents you'll hear across Dublin. The area is undoubtedly one of the best areas to stay in Dublin, especially Point Campus.  

7. Ranelagh

Cost of Living: €1,566/month
Nearby Universities: National College of Ireland, Trinity College
Crime Rate: Low
Famous for: Ranelagh Gardens, Teeling Whiskey Distillery 

Ranelagh is located southeast of Portobello, and you can find the Grand Canal on the other side. This is one of the safest areas in Dublin, where you can find a mix of natives and expats. Also, being the best place in Dublin, Ranelagh features a diversity of activities: 

1. Its bustling streets are lined with quaint cafés, bars, yoga studios, stores, and eateries.
2. You may savour steak and grill selections available at The Butcher Grill and other gourmet treats.
3. Explore Ranelagh Village Market for fresh produce and unique crafts.
4. Stroll down the streets and discover a treasure trove of independent shops and vintage clothing stores.
5. Catch a movie at the Stella Cinema, a beautifully restored art deco cinema offering mainstream and independent films.

With fights over Irish sovereignty dating back to the 17th century, Ranelagh's historical significance and upscale atmosphere contribute to its allure. You would be surprised to know that Ranalegh is one of the best areas to live in Dublin and the first suburb in the city. While you are busy exploring old-school architecture, don’t forget to check out Go Britanya Dublin Residence, an affordable accommodation in the best place to live in Dublin.

8. North Inner City

Cost of Living: €1,298/month
Nearby Universities: University College Dublin, Trinity College
Crime Rate: High
Famous For: National Museum of Ireland, The Custom House  

The North Inner City is in a wide area in the D1 district, north of the Liffey River in the central city centre. If you want to live in the middle of all the action and hustle in the city, North Inner City and City Central South are the best areas to live in Dublin. Comparatively, North Inner City is affordable and filled with working-class people. You will find a range of things to do in Dublin, apart from cafe and restaurant hopping: 

1. Visit The Irish Emigration Museum to learn about the story of the Irish diaspora through interactive exhibits.
2. Enjoy a colourful evening at Dublin's oldest and most characterful pubs, like The Brazen Head (founded in 1198!) and The Palace Bar.
3. Explore the street art scene and discover murals and installations adorning buildings in one of the best neighbourhoods to live in Dublin.
4. Learn about the history of Irish whiskey and the Jameson brand at the Bow Street distillery.
5. Visit the Dublin Zoo, which is home to over 600 animals from around the world. 

North Inner City is affordable compared to other central areas, and the vicinity has an energetic vibe. Nevertheless, it is one of the best areas to stay in Dublin, and the top student accommodation options to consider are Dorset Point and North Circular Road (447). 

9. Phibsborough

Cost of Living: €1,500/month
Nearby Universities: Dublin City University and Trinity College Dublin
Crime Rate: Low
Famous for: Phoenix Park, one of the largest enclosed public parks in Europe 

Phibsborough is a commercial and residential neighbourhood, making it one of the best places to live in Dublin’s northside. Defined by Victorian red brick architecture, it offers modern cafés and restaurants beside long-standing pubs and chip shops. Below are the essential things to do  in one of the best Dublin neighborhoods for expats: 

1. Discover literary history at the Dublin Writers Museum and observe the Custom House's stunning architecture.
2. Make plans for quirky bars, such as The Back Page, where you can eat pizza, play board games, or attend a theme night.
3. Immerse yourself in local life by visiting Moore Street's bustling markets and take a stroll along the gorgeous banks of Liffey.
4. Phizzfest presents live theatre and music at various venues throughout the year.
5. Explore the iconic Guinness Storehouse to learn about Ireland's brewing heritage, then take a stroll through the historic cobbled streets of Temple Bar. 

All these factors make Phibosborough one of the best areas to live in Dublin for young professionals. Highfield House is an affordable student accommodation option in the neighbourhood that offers a great experience. 

10. Dundrum

Cost of Living: €2,420/month
Nearby Universities: Dundrum College of Further Education, University College Dublin
Crime Rate: Low
Famous for: Ruins of Norman Castle

Dundrum isn't in the city centre, yet it's one of the best areas to live in Dublin for families and students. The vast area covering districts 14 and 16 is home to the city’s largest shopping centre. To make the best out of one of the safest areas in Dublin, here are essential things to do: 

1. The largest mall in Ireland, Dundrum Town Centre, offers a variety of shops and restaurants.
2. Explore the serene Dundrum Castle and its beautiful parklands.
3. At Airfield Estate, take advantage of urban retreats and see live performances at Dundrum's Mill Theatre.
4. Full of vibrant nightlife and a young population, Dundrum is one of the best places to live in Dublin to explore a friendly atmosphere.
5. Challenge your friends and family to a fun round of mini-golf at Rainforest Adventure Golf.  

Nearly 40% of the population is aged 18 to 34; hence, it is never a challenge to find accommodation in such good areas to live in Dublin. You can consider James Street, a top-rated student accommodation with a peaceful and charming atmosphere in one of the best areas to live in Dublin. 

11. City Centre South

Cost of Living: €1,800/month
Nearby Universities: Dublin Institute of Technology, University College Dublin
Crime Rate: High
Famous for: St. Stephen’s Green, Dublin Castle 

City Centre South sits below the River Liffey in Dublin's heart. This is one of the best places to live in Dublin for young professionals as it is a vibrant area pulsating with youth and unparalleled experiences. From trendy pubs to exciting nightlife, it's all on your doorstep, minus the hefty city centre price tag! Here’s what you can do in one of the top areas to stay in Dublin: 

1. Explore Insta-worthy cafes and restaurants, and make a note to visit the famous Brother Hubbard or The Fumbally.
2. Hit up Powerscourt Centre, a converted shopping mall with quirky boutiques and vintage finds.
3. Score rare records at Tower Records or indulge in new releases at Golden Disc.
4. Rent a kayak or take a stand-up paddleboard tour for a chill afternoon on the Grand Canal.
5. Explore the Irish Rock N' Roll Museum for a unique cultural experience.

City Centre South may be one of the well-populated areas, but it is also one of the best areas to live in Dublin. You can find an array of options for Dublin student accommodation; however, Yugo New Mill stands out in the crowd due to its amenities and location. 

Now that you have a good idea of where to live in Dublin, what are you waiting for? With the list of the safest areas in Dublin at your disposal, you should also consider the cost of living in Dublin. While moving from one place to another seems nerve-wracking, don’t worry as long as you have the moving-in checklist for students with you. Gather information about the best places to live in Dublin for young professionals, decide whether the suburb meets your lifestyle needs, and then settle down. Since these are some of the safest parts of Dublin, a great experience awaits!