Living in Galway
Cost of Living, Safety & Expat Guide (2026)
Country
Ireland
Monthly Cost
$2,894
Internet
150 Mbps
Safety
6.9/10
Rent (1BR)
$2,170
Living in Galway — Quick Take
Best for: Expats seeking balance
Cost level: Above Average ($2,894/mo)
Main downside: Higher costs than alternatives
Quick Facts
$2,894/mo
Higher6.9/10
Average150 Mbps
Fast$2,170
Pricey$3,106/mo
86K
Mid-sizeMonthly Living Cost Breakdown
Who Is Galway For?
Infrastructure and costs align well with remote work lifestyles.
Some neighborhoods are family-friendly; research specific areas carefully.
Looking for something more affordable? Consider Kaohsiung.
Pros and Cons of Living in Galway
Pros
- Generally safe for expats with normal precautions
- Fast internet (150 Mbps) - great for remote work
Cons
- Higher cost of living - budget accordingly
- May lack some digital nomad infrastructure
- High rental costs - expect $2169.6+ for 1BR
Job & Income Overview
Avg Local Salary
$3,106/mo
Salary-to-Rent Ratio
1.4x
Housing costs are high relative to local wages. Remote income or savings help.
Local wages cover basic costs, but not much room for savings or travel.
Cost Insight
Housing takes up most of your budget here—about 75% of total costs. The rest is relatively cheap.
For comparison, Kaohsiung runs about $808/month—258% less.
Common Questions About Galway
How much does it cost to live in Galway?
Around $2,894/month for a single person, covering rent, food, and basics. Lifestyle choices affect the final number.
Is Galway safe for expats?
Galway is reasonably safe with normal precautions with a 6.9/10 safety score. Standard precautions apply.
Is Galway good for remote workers?
With 150 Mbps average speeds, Galway is excellent for remote work. Coworking options exist.
How much is rent in Galway?
A 1-bedroom averages $2,170/month. Prices vary by neighborhood and proximity to center.
Calculate Your Cost in Galway
Get personalized estimates based on your lifestyle
Explore More About Galway
NomadIQ Score
out of 10
Average
Quick Stats
Safety Score
6.9/10
Internet Speed
150 Mbps
Monthly Cost
$2,894
Explore Similar Cities
Final Thoughts
Galway is worth considering for adventurous expats looking to relocate abroad. With a monthly cost of living around $2,894, a safety score of 6.9/10, and internet speeds of 150 Mbps, the city offers a balanced package for international residents. Whether you're drawn by the culture, the cost savings, or the lifestyle opportunities, Galway deserves a spot on your shortlist. We recommend visiting for a few weeks before making a long-term commitment to ensure it aligns with your personal and professional needs.
Data sources include public cost-of-living datasets, user-reported data, and internal analysis. Last updated: August 2026.
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