Ireland has plenty of places where your budget can stretch further without compromising on lifestyle. From riverside towns in Leitrim to coastal communities in Wexford, these five locations prove that affordable living doesn’t have to mean remote or rural.
Ireland’s national average house price now hovers around €365,000, yet several lovely towns remain well below that figure. Whether you’re dreaming of a lively market town, a harbour city steeped in history or a quiet spot by the water, here’s where to find the best value in 2025 — and discover what life’s really like there.
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Affordable locations and local life
1. Carrick-on-Shannon, County Leitrim – median property price €220,000
Set along the River Shannon, Carrick-on-Shannon is the kind of town where you can slow down without feeling isolated. The river brings daily life to the forefront – boating, paddleboarding and riverside walks are part of the routine. With a median property price of €220,000, Carrick remains one of Ireland’s most affordable and attractive small towns. Locals take pride in its marina and lively events calendar, including the annual Carrick Carnival each June. Add a strong sense of community and the relaxed charm of Leitrim’s countryside, and you have one of the best value bases in Ireland.
2. Monaghan Town, County Monaghan – median property price €235,000
Monaghan Town blends history, community and affordability. Once known for its linen industry, it now thrives as a creative, independent market town surrounded by gentle hills and farmland. Homes here carry a median price of €235,000 – still far below the national median – yet residents enjoy quality amenities, lively pubs and farmers markets selling local produce. For outdoor enthusiasts, Lough Muckno is close by for walking, angling and water sports. Monaghan’s location near the border makes it easy to reach both Belfast and Dublin, while its slower rhythm gives you space to breathe.
3. Waterford City, County Waterford – median property price €165,000
Ireland’s oldest city also happens to be one of its best-value urban spots. The median house price in Waterford City stands at just €165,000, reflecting its mix of smaller terraces and apartments close to the historic centre. The city’s Viking roots blend seamlessly with a thriving modern community – from independent cafés in the cultural quarter to festivals like Spraoi and the Waterford International Film Festival. While asking prices for larger homes are higher, this low median highlights opportunities for buyers willing to renovate or downsize. For a compact city with character, walkability and a strong arts scene, Waterford offers a lot for the money.
4. Ballina, County Mayo – median property price €165,500
Sitting on the River Moy in north Mayo, Ballina combines small-town warmth with coastal scenery just a short drive away. The median price of €165,500 makes it one of the best-value towns in the west, appealing to both first-time buyers and retirees seeking fresh air and friendly faces. It’s a town that celebrates its setting – the river is renowned for salmon fishing, and nearby beaches at Enniscrone and Killala Bay offer wild Atlantic views. With its rail link to Dublin and good local facilities, Ballina manages to feel remote yet well-connected – a rare mix at this price point.
5. Gorey, County Wexford – median property price €339,999
Gorey continues to draw buyers looking for a balance between coastal life and commuter convenience. With a median price of €339,999, it sits above some rural averages but still below Dublin’s outer suburbs. The town itself buzzes with cafés, boutiques and family-friendly amenities, while nearby beaches like Courtown and Ballymoney make weekends feel like holidays. Strong road and rail links keep Dublin within reach for commuters. Gorey’s popularity means demand is steady, but for many buyers it remains a sweet spot – a lively Wexford town that still feels affordable for the quality of life it offers.
Property price comparison table
| Location | Median price | County median |
|---|---|---|
| Carrick-on-Shannon, Leitrim | €220,000 | €197,500 |
| Monaghan Town, Monaghan | €235,000 | €235,000 |
| Waterford City, Waterford | €165,000 | €297,500 |
| Ballina, County Mayo | €165,500 | €210,000 |
| Gorey, Wexford | €339,999 | €295,000 |
What to check before buying
Transport and commuting
If you plan to commute or travel often, check train and bus frequency, road conditions and future infrastructure plans.
Local services and amenities
Confirm proximity to GP practices, hospitals, schools, supermarkets and reliable broadband. Rural edges can feel sparse even when town centres are well served.
Supply and resale potential
Lower-price markets can have slower market turnover. Verify how many homes sell yearly in your target area.
Flood risk / terrain
In river or coastal towns like Carrick, Waterford and Ballina, check flood maps. Inspect site drainage and elevation.
Planning and development
Future planning can change a quiet town to a busier area. Check local development plans with the council.
Final thoughts
Once you look beyond the big cities, it’s clear that Ireland still offers excellent value. Towns like Carrick-on-Shannon and Ballina show just how far your budget can stretch in the west, while Monaghan Town combines countryside calm with solid connections north and south. Waterford City proves that even urban buyers can find a foothold without overspending, and Gorey offers a livelier, commuter-friendly option that balances coastal living with accessibility. Together, they highlight the range of affordable lifestyles still available across Ireland – whether you’re dreaming of river walks, rural markets or a compact city steeped in history.
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