Portrane is a charming small seaside village in Fingal, just a short stroll from Donabate, known for its long sandy Blue Flag beach, dramatic cliff walks with views to Lambay Island, and a peaceful coastal vibe that feels worlds away from Dublin's hustle. It's dotted with historic gems like the imposing Victorian red-brick buildings of St. Ita's Hospital, now a modern mental health facility, medieval St. Catherine's Church, and the ivy-clad Portrane Castle—once home to Jonathan Swift's 'Stella'. Families, retirees, and nature lovers flock here for the fresh sea air, smuggling caves, Martello towers, and U2 connections, creating a tight-knit community that cherishes its rich heritage and outdoor lifestyle.
Overview
CSO Census 2022 · Small Area Population Statistics
Population
1,262
Census 2022
Owner occupied
77.1%
National: 65.9%
Crime rate per 1,000
44.4
National avg: 54.1
With a cozy population of just 1,262, Portrane feels like a hidden gem where over three-quarters of homes are owner-occupied—well above the national average—suggesting a stable, rooted community of long-term residents who value putting down roots. The low crime rate of 44.4 per 1,000 beats the national figure, making it a safe, welcoming spot for families and those seeking tranquillity by the sea.
Age Profile
CSO Census 2022 · Table 1 population by age
Age distribution
Portrane vs national average (%)
Portrane
National
Portrane's age profile skews towards a more mature community, with fewer young children at 15.1% under 14 and a higher-than-average 20.6% over 65, fostering a calm, family-friendly atmosphere where retirees mingle easily with working parents.
Under 14
15.1%
National: 19.7%
65 and over
20.6%
National: 15.1%
Male / Female
50.1% / 49.9%
National: 49.4% / 50.6%
Economic Status
CSO Census 2022 · Table 8 principal economic status (aged 15+)
Economic status
Portrane vs National (%)
Portrane
National
vs national average
At work
Retired
Student
Looking after home/family
The local economy reflects a balanced mix with nearly half the population at work, a solid 21.8% retired, and lower work-from-home rates, pointing to a community of dedicated commuters who keep things steady and community-oriented.
Third Level Education
CSO Census 2022 · Table 10 highest level of education completed
vs national average
Third level education
Around a third of residents hold third-level degrees, slightly below the national average, suggesting a practical, down-to-earth group who prioritise hands-on skills alongside education, perfect for those who appreciate real-world know-how in a coastal setting.
Crime & Safety
CSO Recorded Crime Statistics · Garda subdistrict level · 2024
Crime rate per 1,000
44.4
National avg: 54.1
vs national average
Near the national average
2024 recorded crime
3-year avg rate
44.1
Per 1,000 · 2022–2024
Crime & safety: The Swords Garda subdistrict records a crime rate of 44.4 per 1,000, broadly in line with the national average of 54.06.
Crime rate is based on recorded incidents in the Swords Garda subdistrict (population 66,775), which covers Portrane and surrounding areas. Data: CSO Recorded Crime Statistics.
Commuting
CSO Census 2022 · Table 11 departure times & travel mode
Departure time for work / school
Portrane vs National (%)
Portrane
National
How people travel to work
Portrane vs National (%)
Portrane
National
vs national average
Work from home
Public transport
Car / van
Most folks drive to work at 67.8%, a touch above average, underlining Portrane's car-dependent nature given its rural seaside location, though public transport use at 14.5%—double the national rate—means the DART line nearby offers a reliable option for Dublin commutes without the gridlock. It's handy for beach bums who want city access too.
Nationality & Ethnicity
CSO Census 2022 · Table 2 nationality and ethnicity
Citizenship / nationality
Portrane vs National (%)
Portrane
National
Ethnicity
Portrane vs National (%)
Portrane
National
vs national average
Irish citizen
White Irish ethnicity
Religion
CSO Census 2022 · Table 4 religion
Religion
Portrane vs National (%)
Portrane
National
vs national average
Catholic
No religion
Irish Language
CSO Census 2022 · Table 3 Irish speakers aged 3 and over
Can speak Irish
33.6%
National: 39.83%
Speak Irish daily outside school
0.7%
National: 4.11%
vs national average
Can speak Irish
Daily outside school
The name Portrane comes from the Irish 'Port Reachrann', meaning 'port' or 'landing place of Reachran'—possibly referring to an ancient chieftain or saint—evoking its history as a sheltered harbour on the Fingal coast used for fishing, smuggling, and medieval trade. This nod to Gaelic roots highlights the area's deep maritime heritage amid its dunes and Martello towers, even as modern Irish speakers are scarce.
Housing & Tenure
CSO Census 2022 · Table 6 type of occupancy and accommodation
Owner occupied
77.1%
National: 65.9%
Private renting
7.5%
National: 18.0%
Social housing
9.5%
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
Dominantly owner-occupied at 77.1% with minimal private renting at 7.5%, and mostly houses over flats at just 3.2%, Portrane offers spacious family homes in a stable market where nearly everyone has a car and feels settled.
Health
CSO Census 2022 · Table 12 self-reported general health
Good or very good health
83.8%
National: 82.9%
Fair health
11.7%
National: 8.6%
Bad or very bad health
2.8%
National: 1.7%
Smokers
18.9%
National: 17.03%
Self-reported health
Portrane vs National (%)
Portrane
National
Excellent health is the norm here with 83.8% reporting good or very good health, nudging above the national average, likely thanks to the sea breezes, cliff walks, and laid-back coastal lifestyle that keeps everyone feeling vibrant.