Nestled along Dublin Bay in Leinster, Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown is Ireland's smallest county by area yet brims with coastal charm, from the bustling harbour town of Dún Laoghaire to leafy suburbs and rolling hills towards Wicklow. It's a vibrant mix of seaside promenades, historic piers, and green spaces like Killiney Hill, making it distinctive for its blend of maritime heritage and suburban elegance. This welcoming spot draws families, professionals, and retirees who love its safe, scenic lifestyle just south of Dublin city.
Overview
CSO Census 2022 · Small Area Population Statistics
Population
233,860
Census 2022
Owner occupied
67.8%
National: 65.9%
Crime rate per 1,000
57.1
National avg: 54.1
With a thriving population of 233,860 spread across 14 local areas, Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown shows strong community roots and above-average home ownership at 67.8%, suggesting stability and pride in the area. Economic activity is robust, with 55.6% at work, reflecting a prosperous suburban hub connected to Dublin's opportunities.
Age Profile
CSO Census 2022 · Table 1 population by age
Age distribution
Dun Laoghaire/rathdown vs national average (%)
Dun Laoghaire/rathdown
National
Under 14
18.1%
National: 19.7%
65 and over
17.1%
National: 15.1%
Male / Female
47.9% / 52.1%
National: 49.4% / 50.6%
A slightly lower proportion under 14 at 18.1% and higher over 65 at 17.1% paints a picture of a mature, family-friendly community where multi-generational living fosters a warm, supportive vibe.
Economic Status
CSO Census 2022 · Table 8 principal economic status (aged 15+)
Economic status
Dun Laoghaire/rathdown vs National (%)
Dun Laoghaire/rathdown
National
vs national average
At work
Retired
Student
Looking after home/family
Over half the population (55.6%) is employed, with a notable 18.5% working from home—well above the national 11.3%—highlighting a modern, flexible workforce in this affluent county.
Third Level Education
CSO Census 2022 · Table 10 highest level of education completed
vs national average
Third level education
An impressive 61.5% hold third-level qualifications, far exceeding the national 39.2%, underscoring a highly educated populace that fuels innovation and professional success here.
Commuting
CSO Census 2022 · Table 11 departure times & travel mode
Departure time for work / school
Dun Laoghaire/rathdown vs National (%)
Dun Laoghaire/rathdown
National
How people travel to work
Dun Laoghaire/rathdown vs National (%)
Dun Laoghaire/rathdown
National
vs national average
Work from home
Public transport
Car / van
Commuting leans green with 19.8% using public transport—more than double the national 7.9%—thanks to DART lines and buses linking to Dublin, while the high work-from-home rate keeps roads quieter. It's a commuter's dream with easy coastal access and reliable rail.
Nationality & Ethnicity
CSO Census 2022 · Table 2 nationality and ethnicity
Citizenship / nationality
Dun Laoghaire/rathdown vs National (%)
Dun Laoghaire/rathdown
National
Ethnicity
Dun Laoghaire/rathdown vs National (%)
Dun Laoghaire/rathdown
National
vs national average
Irish citizen
White Irish ethnicity
Religion
CSO Census 2022 · Table 4 religion
Religion
Dun Laoghaire/rathdown vs National (%)
Dun Laoghaire/rathdown
National
vs national average
Catholic
No religion
Irish Language
CSO Census 2022 · Table 3 Irish speakers aged 3 and over
Can speak Irish
41.5%
National: 39.83%
Speak Irish daily outside school
1.6%
National: 4.11%
vs national average
Can speak Irish
Daily outside school
The name 'Dún Laoghaire–Ráth an Dúin' breaks down to 'Laoghaire's fort' for Dún Laoghaire—honouring the 5th-century High King whose stronghold guarded Dublin Bay—and 'Ringfort of the fort' for Rathdown, evoking ancient hilltop defences. These roots reveal a landscape shaped by early Celtic fortifications amid coastal cliffs and hills, tying the county's modern vibrancy to its deep warrior-king history.
Housing & Tenure
CSO Census 2022 · Table 6 type of occupancy and accommodation
Owner occupied
67.8%
National: 65.9%
Private renting
20.9%
National: 18.0%
Social housing
7.6%
National: 10.0%
Ownership breakdown
Owned with mortgage
Owned outright
Dwelling type
House/Bungalow
Flat/Apartment
Cars per household
No car
Two or more cars
Home ownership stands at a solid 67.8% versus the national 65.9%, with a mix of family homes, apartments near the harbour, and period properties that give the county its cosy, established feel.
Health
CSO Census 2022 · Tables 12 self-reported health & smoking
Good or very good health
88.2%
National: 82.9%
Fair health
7.1%
National: 8.6%
Bad or very bad health
1.3%
National: 1.7%
Smokers
10.7%
National: 17.03%
Self-reported health
Dun Laoghaire/rathdown vs National (%)
Dun Laoghaire/rathdown
National
The older age profile and high education levels point to a health-conscious lifestyle, supported by seaside walks, parks, and active community leisure centres promoting wellness.