Cost of Living as a GP settled in Ireland
Are you an international General Practitioner (GP) considering a career move to Ireland? Welcome to the Emerald Isle! Relocating to a new country can be an exciting yet challenging journey, but fear not – we have you covered. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through what our GPs typically experience while going through the process of living and settling in Ireland, focusing on the cost of living- helping you embrace this new chapter with confidence and ease.
- Accommodation: Finding the perfect place to call home is essential for settling in comfortably. Whether you prefer a vibrant city apartment or a peaceful countryside retreat, Ireland offers a range of housing options to suit your preferences. Rent will contribute as one of the most significant expenses for someone living in Ireland. In a city like Dublin, the cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment can range from €1200 to €2000 per month and can be accessed at a lower range if the location is on the outskirts.
Here are a few resources which can help you find accommodation:
1) www.daft.ie
2) www.myhome.ie
3) www.rent.ie
4) www.airbnb.ie
5) www.rentola.ie
6) www.property.ie
7) www.let.ie
8) www.propertypal.com
9) www.housinganywhere.com
- Utilities: Other than housing, other bills to include are utilities like electricity, heating, water, and waste disposal, which can amount to an average of €150 to €200 per month.
You can compare various household bills at bonkers.ie
- Groceries and Food: The cost of groceries and dining out can vary depending on personal preferences, but a rough estimate for food expenses might be around €300 to €500 per month. Common brands include Tesco, Dunnes, Lidl and Aldi, and here is a guide for a deeper dive into Grocery shopping in Ireland.
- Transportation: Ireland has a smooth transportation system with several modes like Buses, Trams, and Trains providing dense connectivity throughout the country. If you are someone who uses public transportation daily for commuting to work or in general, your leap-card top-ups will cost anywhere between €100 to €200 per month. While, if you choose to drive around in your car, you can expect to pay upwards of €300 each month for petrol or diesel.
- Healthcare and Insurance: While GPs may have access to free healthcare services, some medical practitioners may choose to have private health insurance, which can add to the annual expenses. Additionally, if you are someone moving to Ireland with family, insurance costs may differ according to the ages and health complications of your family members, with providers like VHI, Laya, and Irish Life issuing annual insurance at an average of €150 a month.
- Childcare and Education: The Irish education system is renowned for its ambitious standards and commitment to holistic learning. Though Public schools provide free education to all children in the republic till the age of sixteen, private school tuition on average can cost between €3000 to €10,000 per year. Additionally, there are several highly ranked third-level education institutions around the country. Though post-graduate courses can be expensive, students can apply for scholarships or get financial assistance under the student grant scheme.
Navigating the Irish Schooling System: A Guide for Doctors Moving to Ireland with Children
- Entertainment and Leisure: The cost of entertainment and leisure activities will depend on personal preferences, but budgeting around €100 to €200 per month may be reasonable.
Please note that these are general estimates, and the actual cost of living can vary significantly based on individual circumstances. Additionally, salaries for GPs can also vary based on experience, location, and the type of medical practice they work in. It is essential for GPs considering a move to Ireland to research specific living costs in their desired location and consider their financial situation to make informed decisions about their move. Relocating to Ireland offers a world of opportunities for personal and professional growth. Embrace the Irish lifestyle, navigate the healthcare system with ease, and build meaningful connections with your patients and colleagues. Whether you are savouring the local cuisine, immersing yourself in Irish culture, or providing compassionate care to your patients, living in Ireland promises to be a fulfilling and enriching experience. Welcome to your new home in the Emerald Isle!
If you need any guidance as a GP moving to Ireland, please feel free to contact the Locumotion team by telephoning +35312993550 OR emailing info@locumotion.com, and we will provide you with the relevant support.