![Image of Limerick](https://expatcoffee-aws-s3-images-bucket.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/medium_Limerick_f19bae1119.jpg)
Located in Ireland's Mid-West region, Limerick is a vibrant city known for its rich history, thriving economy, and friendly locals. With a population of around 95,000, it's the third-largest city in Ireland after Dublin and Cork. Limerick is home to several prestigious universities, including the University of Limerick and the Limerick Institute of Technology. The city offers an eclectic mix of culture, music, and arts, with several festivals and events held throughout the year, including the Limerick Festival of Music, Literature and the Arts. It's also steeped in heritage, with historic landmarks such as King John's Castle, St. Mary's Cathedral, and the Treaty Stone commemorating the signing of the historic Anglo-Irish Treaty of 1921.
Tips for expats in Limerick
Visa requirements
To work in Ireland, non-EEA nationals require a work permit known as a GNIB Card. This can be applied for online at the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) website, and requires proof of a job offer, an employment contract, and a police clearance certificate. For those planning to stay in Ireland for over three months, a residency permit is also required.
Language resources
English is the official language of Ireland, and most locals in Limerick are fluent speakers. However, learning a few simple phrases of Irish Gaelic could go a long way in helping you integrate into the community. The Limerick Central Library offers a range of Irish language resources, including books, CDs, and language courses, while the Limerick Institute of Technology (LIT) offers adult education classes.
Cost of living for expats in Limerick
Housing
The cost of housing in Limerick is generally lower than that of other major cities in Ireland, such as Dublin and Galway. Shared accommodation is readily available, with average rents for a room in a shared house at around €600 (USD$700) per month. A one-bedroom apartment typically costs around €800 (USD$960) per month, while a two-bedroom apartment is around €1,200 (USD$1,440) per month, and three-plus bedroom houses start at around €1,500 (USD$1,820) per month. Most areas of the city offer affordable and comfortable housing options.
Groceries
Grocery prices in Limerick are reasonable and comparable to those in other major cities in Ireland. Basic staples such as bread, milk, and vegetables are readily available from local markets and supermarkets. The Limerick Milk Market, held every Saturday, is a popular destination for expats looking to sample locally produced goods, while larger supermarkets such as Tesco and Dunnes Stores offer a wide range of products at competitive prices.
Transportation
Public transportation is efficient and affordable in Limerick, with a 7-day Adult Leap Card offering unlimited travel for €20 (USD$24). A single bus fare is €2 (USD$2.40) for adults and €1 (USD$1.20) for children under 16 years old, while taxi fares are typically around €15 (USD$18) for journeys within the city limits. Owning a car is not necessary in Limerick, as the public transport network is reliable and convenient, and parking in the city center can be difficult to find.
Climate in Limerick
Limerick enjoys a temperate climate, with generally mild temperatures throughout the year. The hottest months are July and August, when temperatures can reach up to 20°C (68°F), while the winter months, from December through February, are typically colder, with an average temperature of around 3°C (37.4°F). The city enjoys plenty of rainfall, with around 120 days of rain each year, making it a green, lush, and verdant cityscape. The summer months can be particularly enjoyable, with long hours of sunshine and pleasantly warm evenings.
Job market in Limerick
The Limerick region is home to a diverse range of industries, including pharmaceuticals, automotive, engineering, software development, and renewable energy. Many multinational companies, including Pfizer, Dell, Cook Medical, and General Electric, have a strong presence in the region, creating a wealth of job opportunities for expats. With a low unemployment rate and an average salary of around €36,000 (USD$42,000) per year, Limerick is an excellent destination for professionals seeking employment in Ireland.
Healthcare in Limerick
Limerick offers a comprehensive range of healthcare facilities, including a number of public and private hospitals, several primary care centers, and numerous community health centers. The University Hospital Limerick (UHL) is the region's largest hospital and provides a range of specialist services, while the Bariatric Center of Excellence at UHL offers state-of-the-art weight loss surgeries and treatments. Private health insurance is mandatory in Ireland, and healthcare costs are typically lower than those in neighboring countries such as the UK and Northern Ireland. The Limerick, Ennis, and Shannon areas all have excellent healthcare facilities, providing expats with peace of mind and easy access to medical care.
Transport in Limerick
Limerick has an excellent public transportation system that includes a comprehensive bus network, operated by Bus Éireann. The Bus Éireann service runs frequently and connects all areas of the city, as well as linking Limerick to surrounding towns and villages. The city center is also served by several taxi companies, as well as a number of private car hire services. A car is not necessary in Limerick due to the efficient and reliable public transport network.
Safety in Limerick
Limerick is a safe and welcoming city, with low crime rates and a low incidence of violent crime. However, expats should always be aware of their surroundings, particularly in less well-lit areas at night. The city center and popular tourist areas such as the Limerick Milk Market and the Treaty Stone are generally safe, and most crime is related to petty theft. Expats should take usual precautions, such as locking doors and windows, and ensuring that valuables are always out of sight.
Neighborhoods in Limerick
England's Quay
England's Quay is located in the heart of Limerick city center and is one of the city's most desirable neighborhoods. It's home to a range of restaurants, cafes, and boutiques, as well as several cultural landmarks, including King John's Castle and the Limerick Milk Market. Accommodation options include a mix of luxury apartments, historic townhouses, and contemporary new builds.
St. Mary's Park
St. Mary's Park is situated in the south of Limerick city and is known for its tree-lined streets and quiet, residential feel. It's a popular neighborhood for families, with plenty of local amenities, including supermarkets, schools, and parks.
Castletroy
Castletroy is a large residential area located in the western suburbs of Limerick, close to the University of Limerick. It offers a range of accommodation options, including modern apartments, family homes, and gated communities, as well as a range of local shops, restaurants, and schools.
Attractions in Limerick
King John's Castle
King John's Castle is a 13th-century Norman fortress located in the heart of Limerick city. It's one of Limerick's most iconic landmarks, and offers an immersive history lesson, with interactive exhibits, historical reenactments, and guided tours.
The Treaty Stone
The Treaty Stone is a historic landmark located in the heart of Limerick city. It commemorates the signing of the Anglo-Irish Treaty of 1921, which marked the beginning of the Irish Free State. The stone is a popular destination for tourists, and offers a unique insight into Limerick's rich cultural heritage.
The Milk Market
The Milk Market is a vibrant local market held every Saturday in Limerick city center. It offers a range of fresh produce, artisan foods, and handmade crafts, as well as live music and entertainment. It's a popular destination for locals and expats alike, and offers an insight into the city's rich cultural heritage.
International Schools in Limerick
Limerick School Project
Dock Road, Limerick Docklands
The Limerick School Project is a co-educational primary and secondary school located in the Limerick Docklands. It offers a range of academic and extracurricular programs, including sports, music, and drama. It follows the Irish curriculum but also embraces international best practices.
St. Clement's College Limerick
Dooradoyle, Limerick
St. Clement's College Limerick is a Catholic co-educational school for students aged 10-19 years old. Located in the western suburbs of Limerick, it offers secondary education in preparation for university or higher education diplomas, and follows the Irish curriculum.
Limerick College of Further Education
Georges Quay, Limerick
The Limerick College of Further Education (LCFE) provides a range of academic and vocational programs, including business studies, engineering, and digital media. It offers both full-time and part-time courses, and is located in the heart of the city.
Useful expat resources in Limerick
Limerick City and County Council
Provides information on local government services and resources for expats moving to Limerick.
The University of Limerick
Offers courses for expats looking to further their education in Ireland.
Irish Jobs
A job search website that provides listings of job opportunities in Limerick for expats.
The Limerick Post
A newspaper that reports on local news and events in Limerick.