In 2026, the rivalry between London and Dublin as tech and finance hubs has never been tighter. For international talent, the decision often comes down to a simple question: "Where will I actually have more money at the end of the month?" While both cities are among Europe's most expensive, the "hidden" costs of tax and transport can change the math significantly. At Recruitroo, we provide candidates with a localized "Net Pay Calculator" to make this comparison transparent.
The Rent Reality: 2026 Edition
Housing remains the largest expense in both capitals. In 2026, Dublin’s supply crisis continues to push city-centre rents for a one-bedroom apartment toward the €2,300 mark. London, while having a larger volume of stock, remains higher on average, with central "Zone 1-2" flats reaching £2,500 (€3,000+).
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London Value: You can find significantly cheaper rents by moving to Zones 4 or 5 (e.g., Bexley or Croydon), thanks to the vast Tube network.
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Dublin Value: Commuter towns like Bray or Maynooth offer a higher quality of life and coastal access, but the DART and rail links are more limited than the London Underground.
Tax and Take-Home Pay
This is where the two cities diverge. Generally, Ireland has higher income tax rates for high earners. For a €70,000 salary in 2026:
- In Dublin: You’ll likely take home roughly €4,000 per month after tax, USC, and PRSI.
- In London: An equivalent £60,000 salary nets you approximately £3,800 (€4,550), as the UK's tax brackets are slightly more generous for the middle-to-high income range.
Groceries and Utilities
The UK offers more economical grocery options due to the sheer scale of its supermarket competition. However, Ireland’s utility costs for 2026 have stabilized better than the UK’s, with average monthly energy bills in Dublin now slightly lower than those in London.
Relocation Advice: "Don't just look at the gross salary. A £50k offer in London might actually feel 'richer' than a €65k offer in Dublin once you factor in the UK's lower VAT and higher tax-free personal allowance." — Sarah Murphy, Relocation Advisor.
Recruitroo helps you negotiate offers that reflect the local cost of living. Whether you're chasing the scale of London or the community feel of Dublin, we ensure your contract covers the essentials.
Compare your potential net pay at Recruitroo.com or book a demo to discuss your relocation strategy. View all open roles at Recruitroo.com/candidates.