Young Irish People Are Leaving in Droves – But Why?
A growing number of young Irish adults are making the decision to leave Ireland, citing the cost of living crisis and housing shortages as their main reasons for emigrating. What was once a rite of passage for some has now become a necessary move for many who feel they have no viable future in their home country. With record numbers emigrating, it raises a critical question: Is Ireland failing its young people?
Emigration on the Rise
According to the Central Statistics Office (CSO), in the 12 months leading up to April 2024, 69,900 people emigrated from Ireland, with 34,700 of them being Irish citizens. This marks a 14% increase from the previous year, highlighting the worsening situation.
A survey by the National Youth Council of Ireland (NYCI) found that over 70% of young Irish people aged 18-24 are considering emigration. The majority believe they would have a better quality of life abroad, with financial stability and affordable housing playing significant roles in their decision.
Why Are Young Irish People Leaving?
- Cost of Living Crisis
- Inflation and rising costs have made it increasingly difficult to afford basic necessities in Ireland.
- Rent, groceries, transport, and energy prices have all skyrocketed, leaving many young adults struggling to get by.
- Housing Shortage
- The housing crisis has left thousands unable to secure affordable accommodation, with rent prices among the highest in Europe.
- In Dublin, the average rent now exceeds €2,000 per month, making homeownership an unrealistic dream for most young workers.
- Better Opportunities Elsewhere
- Countries like Australia, Canada, and Germany offer not just lower living costs but higher wages, better career opportunities, and improved work-life balance.
- Many graduates are waiting until they finish university to leave, knowing that their chances of finding stable, well-paid work abroad are far better than in Ireland.
Where Are They Going?
- United Kingdom: In the past year, 15,200 Irish people moved to the UK, seeking better job prospects and lower living costs.
- Australia: With a 126% increase in Irish emigrants since 2023, the country has become a top destination for young professionals looking for a fresh start.
- Canada & Europe: Countries like Germany, the Netherlands, and Spain are attracting more Irish expats due to their lower costs of living and accessible job markets.
A Repeat of the Past?
Ireland has a long history of emigration, from the Great Famine to the 1980s recession. While past generations left due to poverty and lack of work, today’s young people are leaving because they can’t afford to live in their own country despite being well-educated and employed.
Final Thoughts
The message from Ireland’s youth is clear: Fix the cost of living and housing crisis, or we will leave. Without serious intervention from the government, Ireland risks losing a generation of skilled, educated workers to countries that offer them a better chance at financial security and quality of life.
For now, the numbers continue to rise, and the exodus of Ireland’s young people shows no signs of slowing down.
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