Lucan Heights is a cherished family-oriented neighbourhood in South Dublin, established in 1966 with classic red-brick homes featuring welcoming arched porches, spacious gardens, and large driveways—perfect for growing families who love its quiet, tree-lined streets. It's known as one of Lucan's premier addresses, surrounded by excellent schools like Scoil Mhuire and St. Joseph's within walking distance, and just a short stroll to vibrant Lucan Village with its cafes and shops, while nearby green spaces like the upcoming Lucan House Demesne add a touch of historic charm. Residents here enjoy a strong community feel, with easy access to the Liffey Valley's parks and trails, making it ideal for those seeking suburban peace close to Dublin's buzz.
Overview
CSO Census 2022 · Small Area Population Statistics
Population
5,131
Census 2022
Owner occupied
75.2%
National: 65.9%
Crime rate per 1,000
43.5
National avg: 54.1
With a close-knit population of 5,131, Lucan Heights boasts a high homeownership rate of 75.2%—well above the national 65.9%—signalling a stable, rooted community of long-term families. The low crime rate of 43.5 per 1,000, compared to the national 54.1, adds to its appeal as a safe, welcoming spot to settle down.
Age Profile
CSO Census 2022 · Table 1 population by age
Age distribution
Lucan Heights vs national average (%)
Lucan Heights
National
The age profile skews towards a mature community, with 24.8% retired—higher than the national 15.9%—and 22.8% over 65 versus 15.1% nationally, alongside fewer young children at 17.2% under 14, suggesting a supportive environment for families and retirees alike.
Under 14
17.2%
National: 19.7%
65 and over
22.8%
National: 15.1%
Male / Female
48.6% / 51.4%
National: 49.4% / 50.6%
Economic Status
CSO Census 2022 · Table 8 principal economic status (aged 15+)
Economic status
Lucan Heights vs National (%)
Lucan Heights
National
vs national average
At work
Retired
Student
Looking after home/family
Lucan Heights has a balanced economic vibe with 51.2% at work, a notable 24.8% retired, and 12.7% working from home above the national average, painting a picture of flexible, professional lifestyles in a stable neighbourhood.
Third Level Education
CSO Census 2022 · Table 10 highest level of education completed
vs national average
Third level education
With 45% holding third-level education—higher than the national 39.2%—this area attracts educated professionals and families, likely contributing to its desirable schools and upwardly mobile community spirit.
Crime & Safety
CSO Recorded Crime Statistics · Garda subdistrict level · 2024
Crime rate per 1,000
43.5
National avg: 54.1
vs national average
20% below national average
2024 recorded crime
3-year avg rate
48.7
Per 1,000 · 2022–2024
Crime & safety: The Lucan Garda subdistrict records a crime rate of 43.5 per 1,000, broadly in line with the national average of 54.06.
Crime rate is based on recorded incidents in the Lucan Garda subdistrict (population 47,794), which covers Lucan Heights and surrounding areas. Data: CSO Recorded Crime Statistics.
Commuting
CSO Census 2022 · Table 11 departure times & travel mode
Departure time for work / school
Lucan Heights vs National (%)
Lucan Heights
National
How people travel to work
Lucan Heights vs National (%)
Lucan Heights
National
vs national average
Work from home
Public transport
Car / van
While car-dependent with 58.9% driving to work and only 9.9% without a car, it's bolstered by strong public transport use at 15.4%—double the national 7.9%—thanks to handy bus links along the N4 corridor to Dublin city centre and beyond. Proximity to the M50 and Kildare railway makes getting around convenient without total reliance on the car.
Nationality & Ethnicity
CSO Census 2022 · Table 2 nationality and ethnicity
Citizenship / nationality
Lucan Heights vs National (%)
Lucan Heights
National
Ethnicity
Lucan Heights vs National (%)
Lucan Heights
National
vs national average
Irish citizen
White Irish ethnicity
Religion
CSO Census 2022 · Table 4 religion
Religion
Lucan Heights vs National (%)
Lucan Heights
National
vs national average
Catholic
No religion
Irish Language
CSO Census 2022 · Table 3 Irish speakers aged 3 and over
Can speak Irish
44.3%
National: 39.83%
Speak Irish daily outside school
1.7%
National: 4.11%
vs national average
Can speak Irish
Daily outside school
'Lucan' derives from the Irish 'Leamhcáin,' meaning 'land of the elms,' evoking the area's historic landscape of elm-lined river valleys along the Liffey. 'Heights' highlights its elevated position offering lovely views, tying into Lucan's longstanding heritage as a spa village and demesne estate, now evolving with projects like Lucan House to preserve that natural, leafy charm.
Housing & Tenure
CSO Census 2022 · Table 6 type of occupancy and accommodation
Owner occupied
75.2%
National: 65.9%
Private renting
11.0%
National: 18.0%
Social housing
10.2%
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
Predominantly owner-occupied at 75.2% with just 11% renting and mostly houses over the national 13% flat/apartment average, Lucan Heights offers spacious family homes with south-facing gardens in a settled, low-turnover setting.
Health
CSO Census 2022 · Table 12 self-reported general health
Good or very good health
85.5%
National: 82.9%
Fair health
8.4%
National: 8.6%
Bad or very bad health
1.9%
National: 1.7%
Smokers
11.0%
National: 17.03%
Self-reported health
Lucan Heights vs National (%)
Lucan Heights
National
Residents report excellent wellbeing, with 85.5% in good or very good health above the national 82.9%, reflecting an active lifestyle supported by nearby parks, trails, and community amenities in the scenic Liffey Valley.