Finding Accommodation in Dublin

Where to Live in Ireland

Finding accommodation in Dublin is one of the biggest challenges for international students. Dublin has a housing crisis, and demand far exceeds supply. Start looking early and be prepared to be flexible.

Accommodation Types

• Host family: Live with an Irish family. Includes meals (usually breakfast and dinner). Costs EUR 200-250/week. Best option for beginners — you practise English at home and learn about Irish culture. Your school can arrange this.
• Student residence: Purpose-built student housing. Private or shared rooms. Costs EUR 250-350/week. Usually close to city centre. Includes bills.
• House share: Rent a room in a shared house or apartment. Costs EUR 700-1,200/month in Dublin. Most common for students staying longer than 3 months.

Where to Search

• Daft.ie: Ireland's main property website. Filter by "sharing" to find house shares.
• Facebook groups: Search for "Rooms to rent Dublin", "Accommodation Dublin", "Brasileiros procurando quarto Dublin".
• Your school: Many schools have accommodation partnerships or bulletin boards with listings.
• SpareRoom.ie: Another popular room-sharing website.

Scam Warning

NEVER pay a deposit or rent before seeing the property in person. Accommodation scams are common in Dublin, especially targeting international students. Red flags:

• The landlord says they're "abroad" and can't show the property
• They ask for money via bank transfer before you've visited
• The price is suspiciously cheap for the location
• They pressure you to pay quickly before someone else takes it
• They send you a key "in the post" after payment

Know Your Rights

• Landlords must register with the RTB (Residential Tenancies Board).
• You should receive a lease or licence agreement in writing.
• Deposits are typically one month's rent and should be returned when you leave (minus any damages).
• If you have issues with a landlord, contact Threshold (free housing advice service) or the RTB.