Searching for the best areas to live in Waterford? Look no further! We’ve curated a list of the finest towns in the city for you.
Some of the best areas to consider if you want to live in Waterford are Waterford City Centre, Tramore, Dunmore East, Dungarvan and Ardmore.
If you want to find out more, read on below!
Waterford City Centre
Waterford City Centre is a great area to live in Ireland because of its well-preserved mediaeval architecture, vibrant festivals, diverse dining options, central location, and job opportunities.
In our opinion, Waterford City Centre offers a blend of old-world charm and modern allure. The architecture, which dates back centuries, may enchant you as you stroll through its winding streets.
But we think you won’t have to worry about foot pain or going to a podiatrist for a while. Waterford City Centre’s central location ensures excellent proximity to public transportation.
The area seems well-connected, with convenient access to trains, buses, and bike paths. For us, this makes commuting around the city and exploring neighbouring towns a breeze.
You can hop on a train to Dublin or Cork, catch a bus to the scenic seaside town of Tramore, or pedal your way through the city’s bike-friendly routes!
Although, you’ll need to sort out your budget if you want to stay for a long time. While the cost of living in Waterford City Centre depends on individual preferences and lifestyles, we believe it generally offers an affordable and comfortable living experience.
Here’s a snapshot of the estimated cost of living in Waterford City Centre, Ireland, from Numbeo and other online sources:
There are great job opportunities in Waterford City Centre that can help you pay for these expenses. We feel your chances are abundant, particularly in industries such as technology, healthcare, tourism, and education.
And once you get the hang of the city centre’s expenditures, you can start enjoying its leisure and nightlife activities too!
Fancy a quirky tavern that exudes character and serves the finest Guinness? Waterford City Centre boasts numerous cosy pubs where you might just find the perfect pint.
For us, local favourites like the Reg, the Munster Bar, and Momo offer pleasant staff, delicious food, and a chance to mingle with both locals and travellers.
We think shopaholics may also love that Waterford City Centre is a retail paradise! It’s best to roam its charming streets and stumble upon independent boutiques, quirky gift shops, and artisanal craft stores.
Another standout attraction in Waterford City Centre for us is the iconic Waterford Crystal. Make sure to step into this world-renowned crystal factory at least once so you can witness master craftsmen transforming molten glass into exquisite works of art.
Pro tip:
We recommend embracing the unpredictable Irish weather and packing a trusty umbrella or raincoat. Don’t allow a sprinkle of rain to put a damper on your spirits, though! We believe Waterford City Center’s charm shines through, rain or shine.
Tramore
Tramore is a fantastic place to live if you seek coastal beauty. It has a laid-back atmosphere and a welcoming community, which we think can make it an ideal destination for young families and retirees wanting a relaxed lifestyle by the sea.
You’ll also come across a variety of charming shops, welcoming cafes, and lively pubs as you explore Tramore’s bustling town centre.
But before exploring these establishments, it’s best to check if you have an adequate budget. Here’s a glimpse into the estimated cost of living in Tramore, Waterford, based on data from sources like Numbeo and other online references:
And while there may not be many jobs within Tramore, the town benefits from its proximity to Waterford City and the surrounding areas.
Industries such as tourism, hospitality, healthcare, and education provide a range of employment options to help you earn a fulfilling beach lifestyle.
Families considering Tramore might also like that the area boasts excellent schools and educational institutions. The local primary schools, such as Holy Cross National School and Gaelscoil Philib Barún, are known for their quality education.
For those going to college, the nearby Waterford Institute of Technology offers a wide range of programmes and courses, like criminal justice, psychology, the arts, languages, tourism, and more.
During your free time, we advise commuting to Tramore’s best spots. Buses and trains are readily available in Tramore, making it simple for locals to commute to nearby communities or explore the surrounding area.
In addition, Tramore features many bike paths for a healthy and eco-friendly way of getting around.
When you get hungry, we also think Tramore’s culinary scene is a delightful blend of traditional Irish fare and international flavours.
From hearty fish and chips by the seafront to mouthwatering seafood platters at local restaurants, your taste buds will be in for a treat.
Not only that, but the neighbourhood also boasts a range of outdoor activities. You can embark on exhilarating surfing lessons, explore scenic walking trails that meander through dunes and cliffs, or take to the skies for a thrilling paragliding experience.
Pro tip:
Don’t forget to try the locally famous “99” ice cream cone – it’s a creamy delight that we believe perfectly complements a sunny day on the beach!
Dunmore East
If you’re a nature lover or outdoor enthusiast, you can enjoy unspoiled beaches, rugged cliffs, and scenic coastal walks in Dunmore East, Waterford.
Dunmore East also boasts a thriving fishing industry, which we feel adds to its unique character. The village’s fishing heritage is deeply ingrained in its culture and can be experienced firsthand at the bustling harbour.
You can also watch lots of fishermen unload their catch and witness the vibrant maritime activities. Fresh seafood is a highlight in Dunmore East, with local restaurants serving up delectable dishes prepared with the day’s freshest catches.
Dunmore East offers an affordable cost of living as well, which we believe allows residents to enjoy the coastal lifestyle without straining their budgets.
Let’s take a brief look at the estimated cost of living in Tramore, Waterford, based on information from reputable sources such as Numbeo and online research:
There are numerous job opportunities in Dunmore East that can afford you a decent living. The jobs span a range of industries, including tourism, hospitality, fishing, and local businesses.
Families considering Dunmore East will also find quality educational options like Dunmore East National School and Gaelscoil Phort Lairge.
To make your weekends interesting, the area surrounding Dunmore East offers an abundance of recreational activities for residents and visitors alike, so you won’t get bored.
Water sports enthusiasts can enjoy sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding in the crystal-clear waters. Otherwise, you can tee off at the town’s golf club, with its panoramic views of the coastline.
But if you’re not into sports, Dunmore East provides options for those seeking other, more relaxed hangouts. We recommend visiting the Strand Inn for breathtaking sea views and a cosy atmosphere, or indulge in fresh seafood at The Bay Café.
Pro tip:
Embrace the local fishing culture by joining a fishing excursion. Experience the thrill of reeling in your own catch and connect with the village’s rich maritime heritage.
Whether you’re a seasoned fisherman or a beginner, Dunmore East gives you a unique opportunity to enjoy the thrill of the beautiful waters of the Irish coastline.
Dungarvan
Are you a foodie? Dungarvan has an array of award-winning restaurants and artisanal food producers that make it a delightful area in Waterford to explore.
Here, you can explore the town’s restaurants, cafes, and food markets. Don’t miss out and savour the famous local specialties like freshly caught seafood, creamy Irish cheeses, and irresistible baked goods.
Indulge in the freshest seafood at renowned restaurants like The Tannery and Merry’s Gastro Pub. For a superb drinking experience, we recommend visiting the Dungarvan Brewing Company and sampling their craft beers.
Hopping from one dining spot to another is also a breeze since the public transportation in Dungarvan is convenient and reliable for many.
Buses connect the town to neighbouring areas, while the nearby railway station offers additional travel options for those looking to explore further. Dungarvan also boasts bike paths that offer scenic routes for leisurely rides or daily commuting.
But before you go anywhere, we advise checking Dungarvan’s cost of living from Numbeo and other online sources:
With the affordable cost of living in Dungarvan covered, let’s now delve into the exciting job opportunities that await in this vibrant town.
Jobs in Dungarvan span various industries. The town has a bustling hospitality scene, with restaurants, cafes, and hotels that cater to locals and visitors alike.
Moreover, we believe the town’s thriving food culture creates employment opportunities in the culinary sector. Dungarvan’s proximity to Waterford City also opens doors to additional job prospects in various industries.
Families considering Dungarvan will also find excellent educational options for their children. The town is home to reputable schools like St. Mary’s Catholic Primary School and Dungarvan College, which foster a nurturing environment for learners.
The town hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating music, art, and local traditions.
From the popular West Waterford Festival of Food to the lively Spraoi Festival in Waterford City, there’s always something exciting happening nearby to immerse yourself in the vibrant Irish culture and traditions.
Pro tip:
Discover the charm of Dungarvan’s local markets! Every Thursday, the Dungarvan Farmers Market comes alive with an array of fresh produce, artisanal crafts, and delectable treats.
We suggest exploring the stalls, chatting with local vendors, and indulging in the flavours of the region. It’s the perfect opportunity to support local businesses, connect with the community, and savour the unique tastes of Dungarvan.
Ardmore
If you’re an aspiring artist, Ardmore, Waterford has a thriving artistic community and has long been a haven for artists, writers, and musicians. It’s also among the Waterford towns with the least population if you prefer to be somewhere nice and quiet.
We believe the town’s creative spirit is evident in its numerous art galleries, craft shops, and studios. Whether you’re an artist seeking inspiration or an enthusiast appreciating local talent, Ardmore’s artistic community may just captivate you!
And speaking of inspiration, did you know that Ardmore is home to an ancient monastic settlement dating back to the 5th century?
So, we recommend exploring the ruins, climbing the round tower, and imagining what life was like for the monks who once inhabited this serene place – it’s like stepping into a time machine, but without the wonky controls!
Now, let’s talk about the natural beauty that surrounds Ardmore. With its golden sandy beach, rugged cliffs, and breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, we think you might find yourself constantly in awe of Mother Nature’s masterpiece.
Take a stroll along the coastal path, feel the sand between your toes, and maybe even catch a glimpse of the local seals sunbathing on the rocks.
We also suggest visiting the Ardmore Cliff Walk! For us, this scenic coastal trail is a great way to appreciate the natural beauty of the area, get some exercise, and maybe even spot a dolphin or two if you’re lucky.
Of course, it’s best to wear comfortable shoes with grippy soles for this trip. You probably don’t need a physiotherapist to warn you about getting too close to the edge of the cliffs!
But with all these promising adventures to try out, don’t forget to keep the cost of living in Ardmore in mind before going all out with your savings:
Pro tip:
While you’re here, we recommend joining a painting class or simply soaking in the artistic vibes that permeate the town. Who knows? You might discover a hidden talent for sculpting seashells!