Moving to Ireland and curious about the cost of living? Student Ambassador Hailey Soucie breaks down the everyday expenses in Limerick, offering a realistic look at life on a student budget.
Moving to a new city to begin your studies also means learning how to manage everyday expenses. As a student at the University of Limerick, I’ve kept track of what I typically spend, from groceries to transport, and put together a guide that reflects the reality of living in the mid-west of Ireland.
Groceries
SuperValu, Dunnes, Lidl and Aldi are the main supermarkets in Limerick. Lidl and Aldi are usually the cheapest options, but loyalty cards from other shops (like SuperValu’s Real Rewards) can save you money through weekly discounts.
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Fruit and vegetables: Carrots (€1.25 per kg), onions (€1.20 per kg), lettuce (€1.15), apples or oranges (€0.60 each), berries (€5 per pack).
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Meat and poultry: Chicken fillets (€7.99 for a family pack), mince beef (€3.50–€4), whole chicken (€4.50), pork mince (€2.50).
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Dairy and refrigerated items: Milk (€1.25 per litre), yoghurt (€0.60–€2), cheese (€3–€6), butter (€2–€4).
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Other essentials: Bread (€1.50–€2), eggs (€1.50–€2 for six), rice or pasta (€2–€2.50 per kg), coffee (€3–€7 per pack).
On average, a student spending carefully will pay around €40–€60 per week on groceries, though this varies with diet and lifestyle.
💡 Tip: Ireland runs a nationwide Deposit Return Scheme for bottles and cans. Each time you buy a drink in a recyclable container you pay a small deposit (typically €0.15–€0.25). Return them to the recycling machines in supermarkets and you’ll get the money back. I usually save mine up and redeem €5–€10 at a time — a handy little “treat” fund.
Clothes and Essentials
Everyday products such as shampoo (€2–€5), period products (€3–€6), toilet paper (€3–€6 for a 9-pack), and plain t-shirts (€5–€7) can be found in Dunnes or Penneys (Primark). A pair of trousers is usually €20–€40.
Rent
Accommodation is one of the biggest costs.
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On-campus at UL: typically €690–€810 per month, often with shared kitchens and living areas.
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Off-campus in Castletroy and surrounding areas: €650–€900 per month, depending on whether it’s a flatshare, homestay, or private apartment.
It’s worth noting that many students only have guaranteed accommodation for their first year, so planning ahead for later years is essential.
Ordering In
Treating yourself to takeaway is popular, but it adds up quickly. Meals through Deliveroo or Just Eat are usually €9–€16, with delivery and service fees ranging from €0.50 to €6. Drinks and extras often add another €1–€3.
Transport
Public transport is affordable with a Student Leap Card.
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Local buses: around €1–€2 per trip.
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Intercity buses (to Cork, Galway, Dublin): usually €12–€15 one way, cheaper if booked in advance.
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Trains: €10–€30 depending on distance.
Taxis and ride-hailing apps such as FreeNow are convenient but pricey. Fares can average €2 per minute, so a trip to Shannon Airport can easily cost €80–€90.
Final Thoughts
University life in Limerick is manageable if you plan your spending. Budgeting around €1,000–€1,200 per month (including rent, food, and transport) gives a realistic cushion for most students. Use loyalty schemes, cook at home, and save ordering in for occasional treats — it makes a big difference.
Hailey Soucie is studying at University of Limerick via Education in Ireland.