In Ireland, history isn’t locked away in museums; it surrounds you. Ancient stone circles, famine cottages, castle ruins, and crumbling abbeys dot the landscape, reminding you that people have been living and loving here for thousands of years. The myths of the Celtic world never feel too far away.
But Ireland today is more than its past. If you’re thinking of making a life here, 2025 brings real opportunity, especially if you’re seeking a slower pace, strong community ties, and breathtaking natural beauty.
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A Land That’s Small—but Big on Variety
Ireland may be small, about the size of West Virginia, but it contains multitudes. You don’t have to choose between seascapes and mountains, river valleys and quiet lake shores. You can have them all, and most are no more than a couple of hours apart.
On the west coast, sandy coves hide between wind-battered cliffs. Hills rise from the land in an almost unbroken chain from Donegal to West Cork. In County Kerry, you’ll find Ireland’s highest mountain, Carrauntoohil, standing at 3,405 feet in the Macgillycuddy Reeks.
Inland, a patchwork of pastureland, slow rivers, and glassy lakes fills the center of the country. Most towns and villages are within reach of the Atlantic, where golden beaches are swept clean by rolling waves and quaint harbor towns welcome newcomers with painted shopfronts and friendly smiles.
The People: Warm, Witty, and Community-Oriented
A journalist once described the Irish as a “Mediterranean people who got stuck too far north.” There’s truth in that. Life in Ireland is as much about conversation and connection as it is about tradition and routine.
In 2025, Ireland’s population sits around 5.31 million, with nearly one-fifth born abroad. Rural areas still hold strong; 38% of people live in communities under 1,500 people. You’ll find the same neighborly values and sense of community in a village in Sligo or a small town in Clare.
Expats often remark on the friendliness here. Shopkeepers chat. Tradespeople wave. And strangers say hello on walking paths. Timekeeping may be flexible, and yes, that contractor might show up two days late, but relationships still come first.
Culture: Pubs, Music, and Literary Giants
Yes, the pub still plays a starring role in Irish life, but it’s more than a place to drink. It’s where people meet, share gossip, tell stories, sing songs, and watch a match. If you’re new in town, your local pub is often the fastest way to feel part of the community.
Beyond that, Ireland punches above its weight in literature, music, dance, and the arts. From Dublin’s theaters to Galway’s buskers to village festivals in Kerry, culture is vibrant and inclusive.
Sports: Homegrown Games and Global Fandoms
Drive through almost any Irish town, and you’ll likely pass a pitch where kids or adults are playing Gaelic football or hurling. These uniquely Irish sports are deeply loved, with local pride on full display during the All-Ireland Championships. County flags flutter from gateposts, shop windows, and car antennas.
If horses are your thing, Ireland is one of the best places in Europe to indulge. It has more horses per capita than anywhere on the continent. You’ll find riding stables, racecourses, and equestrian festivals everywhere from Kildare to Kilkenny.
And for fans of American sports? You won’t miss a beat. Many U.S. games are broadcast on Irish cable and satellite providers. Some towns even have local American football leagues.
Life Here Isn’t Perfect—But It’s Human
Things run on Irish time. A tradesman may say he’ll arrive “first thing” and show up mid-afternoon two days later. You might wait a while for internet installation or bureaucratic paperwork. But you’ll also experience a gentler pace of life, where conversation is currency, neighbors lend a hand, and life isn’t measured in minutes.
Ireland isn’t for everyone. But for those who crave nature, heritage, connection, and a touch of magic, it just might be the perfect place to call home.
Your chance to retire overseas now
Your chance to retire overseas now
Learn more about Ireland and other destinations by signing up to our daily IL Postcards e-letter and we'll immediately send you a free report: 20 Countries Compared, Contrasted, Ranked, and Rated.
You don’t have to be rich to enjoy a pampered retirement, you just need to know where to go.
With our 34th Annual Global Retirement Index, our experts hand you a detailed roadmap. Details and a Special Offer Here!
By submitting your email address, you will receive a free subscription to IL Postcards, The Untourist Daily and special offers from International Living and our affiliates. You can unsubscribe at any time, and we encourage you to read more about our Privacy Policy.
