Waterford Crowned Ireland’s Most Liveable County—Liveability Index Update

URGENT UPDATE: The latest Ireland Liveability Index confirms that Waterford has emerged as the most liveable county in Ireland, a ranking just released yesterday. This index evaluates key factors such as weather, housing, and local amenities across the Republic’s 26 counties, highlighting what makes a location desirable for potential residents.

Waterford’s victory is particularly striking given its median house price of €222,000, significantly lower than Wicklow’s soaring median of €420,000, which places it at the bottom of the liveability ranking for housing costs. This stark contrast underscores Waterford’s appeal despite its relatively average real estate market.

The index also reveals that Waterford benefits from a favorable climate, receiving 1,356 hours of sunshine annually, ranking it as the third sunniest county, just behind Wexford and Dublin. As the report states, “As a nation of sun worshippers, we depart in our droves to foreign climates every year for our sun holidays,” emphasizing that many may not realize the sunshine disparities across the country.

In terms of accessibility, the average Waterford resident is located just 16 kilometers from the nearest city, earning it a fifth place ranking in proximity to urban amenities. This balance of city convenience and natural beauty makes Waterford particularly appealing for families and young professionals looking to settle down.

The natural beauty of Waterford, including the stunning Comeragh Mountains and the picturesque beaches along the famous Copper Coast, helped the county rank ninth in the natural beauty category, competing closely with Leitrim and Cork.

The full rankings of the most liveable counties are as follows:
1. Waterford
2. Wexford
3. Donegal
4. Cork
5. Clare
6. Galway
7. Dublin
8. Louth
9. Wicklow
10. Kerry

This latest ranking not only highlights Waterford’s strengths but also serves as a valuable guide for those considering a move. With the rising cost of living in urban centers, many are reassessing their priorities, making this index particularly relevant.

For those looking to relocate, this ranking underscores the importance of not just housing prices but also quality of life factors that contribute to overall happiness and satisfaction. Expect to see increased interest in Waterford as potential homebuyers and renters take note of this significant accolade.

Stay tuned for further updates as we monitor reactions and shifts in the housing market following this announcement.