Dublin vs London: Cost of Living Comparison
Updated 4 June 2026
London beats Dublin at every salary level. At €70,000, London leaves you with approximately €467 more per month — driven entirely by Ireland's higher effective tax rate.
Dublin vs London: the financial reality
London consistently leaves you with more disposable income than Dublin at every salary level. The gap is driven by one factor: Ireland's 40% effective income tax rate versus the UK's 32%. Rent is broadly comparable between the two cities (Dublin €2,000, London €1,900), so the tax difference is the determining factor. At €70,000, that translates to roughly €467 more per month in London. The gap grows with salary — at €100,000, London is ahead by approximately €667 per month.
Dublin's tax burden at middle incomes is among the highest in Western Europe. The 40% marginal rate kicks in at a relatively low threshold, meaning a €70,000 salary in Dublin leaves significantly less in your pocket than the same salary in London — despite Dublin's reputation as a high-salary tech hub.
Rent: Dublin catches up with London
Historically, London was seen as the more expensive city for rent. That gap has narrowed considerably in recent years. Dublin's rental market has been under intense pressure, with average 1-bedroom apartments in the city centre regularly exceeding €2,000 per month. This makes Dublin one of the most expensive cities in the Eurozone for renters.
London rents vary enormously by neighbourhood. Central London can cost far more than the averages used in this calculator, while outer boroughs remain more affordable. For a fair comparison, the figures here represent a typical 1-bedroom in a reasonably central location in each city.
Which city is better for your salary?
For many salary ranges, Berlin or Lisbon will outperform both Dublin and London in terms of leftover income. Between the two English-speaking cities, London often edges ahead on take-home pay due to lower effective tax rates, but this depends heavily on your specific salary and location. Use the calculator above to run the numbers for your situation.
Beyond the numbers, lifestyle, career opportunities, and personal preferences matter too. But if maximising your monthly surplus is the goal, running the comparison before accepting a job offer is always a smart move.
Frequently asked questions
Is Dublin more expensive than London to live in?
By most measures, yes — particularly for renters. Dublin's rents have risen sharply and now rival or exceed central London averages, while Dublin's effective income tax rate is significantly higher than the UK's for most salary levels. In practice, many professionals find that the same salary leaves them with less money in Dublin than in London, despite Dublin's smaller size.
How do income taxes compare between Ireland and the UK?
Ireland applies a 40% marginal income tax rate above approximately €42,000, resulting in a high effective rate for middle earners — roughly 40% on a €70,000 salary including USC. The UK's basic rate is 20% up to £50,270, with 40% above that, resulting in a lower effective rate for most salary levels. National Insurance contributions add a further 8–12% in the UK depending on income.
How much is average rent in Dublin vs London?
Average monthly rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in central Dublin is approximately €2,000–€2,200. In central London, comparable properties average around €1,800–€2,000 in equivalent terms, though this varies enormously by borough. Dublin's rental market has become one of the most expensive in the Eurozone relative to local income levels, with very limited supply keeping prices elevated.
For a €70,000 salary, which city is better financially: Dublin or London?
At €70,000, London typically leaves you with more disposable income than Dublin. Ireland's high effective tax rate combined with high rents means Dublin absorbs a large proportion of a €70,000 salary. In London, the lower effective tax rate and broadly similar rent levels leave more at the end of the month. Use the calculator above to see the precise monthly figures for your salary.