Dun Laoghaire is a vibrant coastal town just 10km from Dublin city centre, famous for its bustling harbour, long piers perfect for scenic walks, and a lively mix of Victorian architecture, trendy shops, and eateries along George's Street. It's a haven for sea swimmers at the Forty Foot, sailors in its four yacht clubs, and families enjoying the Sunday People's Park market with fresh doughnuts and artisan stalls. With top schools nearby and a creative buzz from places like the Pavilion Theatre, it attracts professionals, families, and retirees who love its maritime charm and community feel.
Overview
CSO Census 2022 · Small Area Population Statistics
Population
26,864
Census 2022
Owner occupied
54.6%
National: 65.9%
Crime rate per 1,000
53.4
National avg: 54.1
Home to 26,864 people, Dun Laoghaire is a compact, desirable coastal spot with a slightly lower home ownership rate at 54.6% compared to the national 65.9%, and higher renting at 29.9%, suggesting a dynamic mix of long-term residents and newcomers. Its crime rate of 53.4 per 1,000 mirrors the national average, making it a safe, welcoming place to settle.
Age Profile
CSO Census 2022 · Table 1 population by age
Age distribution
Dun Laoghaire vs national average (%)
Dun Laoghaire
National
With 18.6% under 14, 16.5% over 65, and a balanced working-age majority, Dun Laoghaire fosters a family-friendly community vibrant with young energy yet supportive for retirees enjoying pier strolls and markets.
Under 14
18.6%
National: 19.7%
65 and over
16.5%
National: 15.1%
Male / Female
47.8% / 52.2%
National: 49.4% / 50.6%
Economic Status
CSO Census 2022 · Table 8 principal economic status (aged 15+)
Economic status
Dun Laoghaire vs National (%)
Dun Laoghaire
National
vs national average
At work
Retired
Student
Looking after home/family
A prosperous area where 57.8% are at work, 20.4% work from home, and 17.5% are retired, it reflects a professional, flexible economy with plenty of local opportunities in marine activities, tourism, and Dublin commutes.
Third Level Education
CSO Census 2022 · Table 10 highest level of education completed
vs national average
Third level education
Boasting 63% with third-level education—well above the national 39.2%—Dun Laoghaire draws ambitious professionals and families valuing its excellent nearby schools and cultured vibe.
Crime & Safety
CSO Recorded Crime Statistics · Garda subdistrict level · 2024
Crime rate per 1,000
53.4
National avg: 54.1
vs national average
Near the national average
2024 recorded crime
3-year avg rate
53.3
Per 1,000 · 2022–2024
Crime & safety: The Dun Laoghaire Garda subdistrict records a crime rate of 53.4 per 1,000, broadly in line with the national average of 54.06.
Crime rate is based on recorded incidents in the Dun Laoghaire Garda subdistrict (population 42,151), which covers Dun Laoghaire and surrounding areas. Data: CSO Recorded Crime Statistics.
Commuting
CSO Census 2022 · Table 11 departure times & travel mode
Departure time for work / school
Dun Laoghaire vs National (%)
Dun Laoghaire
National
How people travel to work
Dun Laoghaire vs National (%)
Dun Laoghaire
National
vs national average
Work from home
Public transport
Car / van
Far from car-dependent, only 34.1% drive to work versus the national 62.4%, while 25.1% use public transport and 24% have no car, thanks to superb DART trains zipping to Dublin in 20 minutes, frequent buses, and walkable amenities. It's ideal if you prefer coastal breezes over traffic.
Nationality & Ethnicity
CSO Census 2022 · Table 2 nationality and ethnicity
Citizenship / nationality
Dun Laoghaire vs National (%)
Dun Laoghaire
National
Ethnicity
Dun Laoghaire vs National (%)
Dun Laoghaire
National
vs national average
Irish citizen
White Irish ethnicity
Religion
CSO Census 2022 · Table 4 religion
Religion
Dun Laoghaire vs National (%)
Dun Laoghaire
National
vs national average
Catholic
No religion
Irish Language
CSO Census 2022 · Table 3 Irish speakers aged 3 and over
Can speak Irish
35.3%
National: 39.83%
Speak Irish daily outside school
1.3%
National: 4.11%
vs national average
Can speak Irish
Daily outside school
'Dún Laoghaire' means 'fort of Laoghaire,' named after Laoghaire, a 5th-century High King of Ireland buried nearby, with 'dún' referring to the ancient ringfort that once guarded this strategic harbour entrance. It evokes the area's deep Gaelic roots and dramatic coastal landscape, from Viking raids to its days as Ireland's busiest port.
Housing & Tenure
CSO Census 2022 · Table 6 type of occupancy and accommodation
Owner occupied
54.6%
National: 65.9%
Private renting
29.9%
National: 18.0%
Social housing
12.2%
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
A mix of 54.6% owner-occupied homes and 29.9% private rentals, with 36% in flats or apartments—much higher than the national 13%—offers stylish sea-view living for buyers and flexible options for renters in this premium location.
Health
CSO Census 2022 · Table 12 self-reported general health
Good or very good health
87.2%
National: 82.9%
Fair health
8.1%
National: 8.6%
Bad or very bad health
1.7%
National: 1.7%
Smokers
11.7%
National: 17.03%
Self-reported health
Dun Laoghaire vs National (%)
Dun Laoghaire
National
With 87.2% reporting good or very good health above the national 82.9%, residents here thrive on fresh sea air, active pier walks, swimming, and a healthy lifestyle amid parks and markets.