Dublin vs London: Which Is Cheaper in 2026?

Dublin and London are nearly identical in overall cost, both scoring 89/100 on our Anchor Cost Index. The differences show up at category level rather than in the headline number, so where you save money depends entirely on how you live.

The biggest driver of the gap is housing: prices run roughly 5% higher in London for this category. With a one-bedroom apartment averaging $2,205/month in Dublin versus $2,310/month in London, the rent difference alone amounts to about $1,260 per year — before you spend a cent on anything else.

Local earning power matters too: the average after-tax salary is $8,125/month in Dublin and $8,450/month in London. Higher wages in London offset part of its higher prices — but only if you earn locally. Remote workers paid in foreign currency get far more value in Dublin.

In the city center, a one-bedroom apartment costs about $2,940/month in Dublin compared with $3,080/month in London. Move outside the center and rents drop to roughly $1,470 in Dublin and $1,540 in London, which is where most long-term residents find the best value.

Families need more space: a three-bedroom in the center runs around $5,880/month in Dublin versus $6,160/month in London. Over a year, choosing the cheaper market saves a family roughly $3,360.

A meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs about $25.10 in Dublin and $26.00 in London. A mid-range dinner for two runs $125 versus $130. If you eat out regularly, Dublin is clearly friendlier to your food budget.

Grocery staples tell the same story: a basic basket of milk, eggs, bread and chicken costs about $8.43 in Dublin versus $8.76 in London. Cooking at home in Dublin stretches a budget noticeably further.

A monthly public transport pass costs $156 in Dublin and $162 in London. For door-to-door trips, a 5 km ride-hail fare averages $9.00 versus $9.00. Commuting costs rarely decide a relocation on their own, but they add up to $72 a year in difference here.

Fixed monthly costs are easy to forget: home internet runs $100 in Dublin versus $103 in London, and basic utilities for an 85 m² apartment average $348 versus $360.

Digital nomads should budget about $5,362/month in Dublin versus $5,580/month in London, covering accommodation, food, coworking and local transport. Factoring in nomad-friendliness scores (Dublin: 74/100, London: 74/100), Dublin is the stronger base for remote work.

For a small family, expect roughly $8,774/month in Dublin and $9,122/month in London including housing, food and schooling basics. On balance, Dublin offers the better overall package for families.

Bottom line: choose Dublin if keeping fixed costs low is your priority — though with costs this close, the decision should come down to lifestyle rather than money.