🇮🇪 Limerick, Ireland’s third largest city, sits in the west of the country along the River Shannon. Known for its historic Georgian streets, major university, and industries in manufacturing, healthcare, and cybersecurity, Limerick has become a popular spot for expats seeking opportunity outside Dublin. This guide explains everything you need to know about moving here — from shipping and customs to housing, healthcare, and everyday living.
What do I need to know about living in Limerick?
- Flag: 🇮🇪
- Population: Around 100,000 (greater area ~120,000)
- Currency: Euro (€)
- Average Salary: ~€42,000 per year (2025)
- Language: English (Irish also official but less used day-to-day)
- Climate: Mild Atlantic climate, frequent rain, cool summers
- Live EUR↔USD/GBP rates: Always use up-to-date converters (CSO Ireland, 2025; ECB, 2025; XE, 2025).
Reviewed by Central Statistics Office (CSO) Ireland, experts in demographics and wages, last updated in July 2025
How can I estimate the cost of moving my belongings to Limerick?
Limerick doesn’t have its own international container port, so most shipments arrive via Dublin Port or Cork Harbour and are delivered by truck. Smaller air freight shipments can be routed through Shannon Airport nearby.
Door-to-door moving costs to Limerick
| Move Type | Time | Cost (EUR) |
| 20ft container | 3–4 weeks | 2,900–4,200 |
| 40ft container | 3–4 weeks | 4,800–6,700 |
| Air freight (1m³) | 6–9 days | 1,150–1,650 |
| Customs fees | — | 150–300 |
Reviewed by Irish Maritime Development Office and Freightos Market Data Division, experts in shipping, last updated in June 2025
Use a moving calculator for an accurate personal quote.
Real-life case:
“We shipped a 20ft container from the UK. It landed in Dublin, and within a week everything was delivered to our doorstep in Limerick.” — Sophie K., moved in May 2025
What are the most popular destinations in Ireland for movers?
The most popular destinations in Ireland are its five largest cities. Dublin is by far the leading hub thanks to its tech jobs and cultural life, Cork is known for its port and coastal lifestyle, Limerick has a strong industrial and academic base, Galway offers a vibrant student and arts scene, and Waterford combines history with affordability. Together, these five urban centres attract the majority of people moving to Ireland.
Reviewed by Central Statistics Office (CSO) Ireland, experts in demographics and migration, last updated in July 2025
How can I deal with customs and duty when moving my belongings?
Personal household goods are duty-free if you qualify for Transfer of Residence Relief. This means you’ve lived outside the EU for over 12 months and have owned the items for more than six months. You’ll need documentation of residence abroad, shipping lists, and proof of residence in Ireland.
Reviewed by Revenue Commissioners Ireland, experts in customs and import relief, last updated in May 2025
Real-life case:
“My move from the US included providing past rental contracts and bank statements to Irish Customs. This helped secure duty-free clearance for all our personal belongings.” — Daniel M., moved in February 2025
How can I organise my moving checklist before relocating?
- 12 weeks out: Review visa needs and update passports.
- 10 weeks out: Request shipping/moving quotes.
- 8 weeks out: Collect education and employment documents.
- 6 weeks out: Secure temporary or permanent housing in Limerick.
- 4 weeks out: Notify tax and utility providers in current country.
- 2 weeks out: Confirm relocation insurance, PPS number, and flights.
Reviewed by Expatica Editorial Team, experts in relocation advice, last updated in January 2024
How can I budget for the cost of living in Limerick?
Limerick is more affordable compared to Dublin or Cork. Housing and daily expenses are lower, making it attractive for students and professionals alike.
Monthly cost of living in Limerick
| Expense | Limerick (EUR/mo) | Notes |
| Rent 1-bedroom | 1,300 | City centre |
| Groceries | 370 | Slightly lower than Cork/Dublin |
| Transport | 100 | Monthly bus pass |
| Utilities | 180 | Seasonal variations |
Reviewed by Numbeo Data Quality Team, experts in global cost data, last updated in June 2024
How can I get a visa or residency for Ireland?
- EU/EEA nationals: No visa required, register after 3 months.
- Non‑EEA nationals: Must apply for work, study, or family residence permits.
- Long-term residency: Usually after 5 years of continuing residence.
Reviewed by Immigration Service Delivery Ireland, experts in permits and visas, last updated in August 2024
How can I access healthcare and insurance in Limerick?
Healthcare is managed via the HSE. Residents staying 6 months or more can access public care, while many expats opt for private insurance. Limerick University Hospital is the primary hospital in the region with several additional clinics across the city.
Reviewed by Health Service Executive (HSE), experts in Irish healthcare, last updated in April 2025
How can I find housing in Limerick as a newcomer?
Housing in Limerick ranges from riverside apartments to suburban family homes. Renting is affordable, but deposits and one month’s rent upfront are standard. Suburbs like Castletroy (near the University of Limerick) or Raheen offer popular choices.
Reviewed by Residential Tenancies Board Ireland, experts in rentals and housing, last updated in April 2025
How can I manage taxes and pensions when living in Ireland?
Ireland applies tax rates of 20% and 40% depending on income. Residents also pay USC and PRSI contributions. Pension provisions are available through the state scheme and supplemented by workplace or private pensions.
Reviewed by Revenue Commissioners Ireland, experts in taxation and pensions, last updated in May 2025
How can I relocate my pets to Limerick?
Pets from the EU require microchips, rabies vaccinations, and an EU pet passport. Non‑EU pets must have veterinary certificates and may face additional checks. Quarantine applies if documents are incomplete.
Reviewed by Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, experts in animal imports, last updated in December 2024
How can I bring my car or exchange my driving licence in Limerick?
Cars imported to Ireland must be registered and Vehicle Registration Tax (VRT) paid, though exemptions are available if tied to relocation. EU licences remain valid, while some non‑EU licences can be swapped; others will require a retest.
Reviewed by Road Safety Authority (RSA), experts in driving and licensing, last updated in March 2024
How can I open a bank account and get a PPS number in Limerick?
A PPS number (Personal Public Service number) is mandatory before opening a bank account. Once obtained, you can open accounts with AIB, Bank of Ireland, or Permanent TSB by showing ID and local address proof.
Reviewed by Department of Social Protection Ireland, experts in social registry, last updated in February 2025
Where can I find tools and extra resources before moving?
For more support, use the relocation calculator, book a video survey, or explore our detailed guides on Dublin, Cork, Galway, and Waterford.
