Planning to move to Galway? Here is a complete breakdown of the cost of living for expats in Galway, Ireland as of 2026. All figures are in EUR for easy cross-country comparison.
Monthly Cost Snapshot
Full Cost Breakdown
Compared to Country Average
| Category | Galway | Ireland Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR Rent (Centre) | €1,850 | €2,116 | -13% below avg |
| Total Single (Centre) | €2,514 | €2,717 | -7% below avg |
| Total Family (Centre) | €4,400 | €4,800 | -8% below avg |
| Groceries | €628 | €679 | -8% below avg |
| Transport | €101 | €163 | -8% below avg |
Get Your Ireland Emigration Report
Personalised visa pathways, cost estimates, and action plan for Ireland.
Get Full Report — €10Find your best visa pathway
Take our free 2-minute quiz and get matched with programmes that fit your profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to live in Galway in 2026?
A single expat living in central Galway should budget approximately €2,514 per month, covering rent, groceries, transport, utilities, healthcare, and entertainment. A family of four needs around €4,400/month.
How much is rent in Galway for expats?
A 1-bedroom apartment in Galway city centre costs around €1,850/month. Outside the centre, expect to pay approximately €1,400/month. A 3-bedroom apartment in the centre is around €4,070/month.
Is Galway expensive compared to other cities in Ireland?
Galway has a cost index of 83% relative to the capital. There are 3 cities tracked in Ireland for comparison.
Related: Ireland Guide · Ireland Salaries · Ireland Cost of Living · Visa Comparison · Compare Ireland · All Countries
Data sourced from numbeo. Last verified 2026-03-10.