The cost of living in Galway for students ranges from €1,000–€1,400 per month- covering rent, food, utilities and transport. Accommodation is the biggest expense with shared housing starting at €350. Groceries cost around €200–€300, while a monthly bus pass is €50–€60. Healthcare insurance ranges from €150–€600 annually. Galway is cheaper than Dublin. It offers a student-friendly lifestyle and plenty of part-time work opportunities. By budgeting smartly and taking advantage of student discounts, international students can enjoy high quality education in one of Ireland’s most vibrant cultural hubs without overspending.
Galway is called the “Cultural Heart of Ireland”. Galway blends academic excellence with a lively student friendly lifestyle. It is home to the University of Galway and Atlantic Technological University (ATU). Both universities attract students from across the globe. Compared to Dublin, Galway offers a slower pace of life, affordable housing options and a close knit student community. Making it ideal for international students who want a balance between quality education and cost effective living.
Before packing your bags it is crucial to know what living in Galway really costs. On average international students spend between €1,000-€1,400 per month. This includes essentials like rent, food, utilities, healthcare and transportation. Of course, your spending depends on choices like whether you live on-campus or share a house, whether you cook at home or eat out and how often you travel.
This blog guide everything you need to know from average costs to money saving hacks. So you can budget smartly and enjoy student life in Galway without stress.
Highlights about Cost of Living in Galway
- Monthly living expenses: €1,000–€1,400
- Accommodation: €350–€750 depending on type
- Food & groceries: €200–€300
- Transport: €50–€60 with student bus pass
- Utilities: €100–€150
- Health insurance: €150–€600 yearly
- Affordable alternative to Dublin
Why Choose Galway?
Galway isn’t just a study destination. It is a place where students thrive. Galway offers affordable rents and a tight-knit student culture as compared to Dublin. The University of Galway is ranked among Ireland’s top universities for research and innovation, while ATU offers practical programs that attract career focused students.
Outside academics, Galway is bursting with energy. The city hosts cultural festivals like the Galway Arts Festival and offers a thriving music and food scene. And its coastal location gives students easy access to stunning landscapes like Connemara and the Cliffs of Moher.
For international students, Galway provides the perfect mix: academic quality, cultural richness and manageable living costs. With a student-friendly atmosphere and plenty of part-time job opportunities, it’s no surprise that thousands of students choose Galway each year.
Average Monthly Living Costs in Galway for International Students
| Expense Category | Average Monthly Cost (€) |
| Accommodation | 350–750 |
| Food & Groceries | 200–300 |
| Utilities | 100–150 |
| Transportation | 50–60 |
| Healthcare/Insurance | 15–50 (annual €150–€600) |
| Miscellaneous/Leisure | 150–250 |
| Total Estimate | 1,000–1,400 |
Accommodation Types in Galway
Accommodation takes up the largest share of a students budget in Galway. It offers a wide range of options:
- On-Campus Residences: Convenient and close to classes, but limited availability. Expect to pay around €550–€750 per month including utilities.
- Shared Apartments/Houses: The most popular choice among international students. Rent ranges from €350–€550 depending on location. Sharing with roommates cuts down costs significantly.
- Private Apartments or Studios: Good for independence but more expensive, usually €650–€850 per month. Perfect for students who prefer privacy.
- Homestays: Living with a host family provides cultural immersion and meals. Costs range from €500–€700 per month.
Galway is a student friendly city that’s why accommodation fills quickly. Most students start searching months before the semester begins. Choosing shared housing is the most economical option for international students on a budget.
Food and Grocery Cost in Galway
Food expenses in Galway average €200–€300 per month. Students can save money by cooking at home and shopping at budget supermarkets like Aldi, Lidl and Tesco. A weekly grocery basket typically costs around €50–€70 depending on dietary choices.
Eating out is pricier. A meal at a mid-range restaurant costs €12–€20, while fast food is around €7–€10. Many students prefer meal prepping for the week, which helps reduce costs and saves time. Some homestay arrangements include meals, cutting grocery expenses further.
Transportation Cost in Galway
Galway is compact and walkable, so many students don’t spend much on transport. Still, buses are the main public transport option. A student monthly bus pass costs about €50–€60, offering unlimited rides across the city. Cycling is also a cheap, eco-friendly choice and many students buy second hand bikes.
Occasional intercity trips (to Dublin or Limerick) cost extra, bus tickets are usually €15–€20 one way. Budget airlines like Ryanair also make weekend getaways across Europe affordable.
Healthcare and Insurance Cost in Galway
Healthcare is another important consideration. International students from non-EU countries must purchase private health insurance, which costs €150–€600 annually, depending on coverage. EU students with the EHIC card can access public healthcare at reduced rates.
A general doctor visit costs €40–€60, while prescriptions range from €10–€20. Many universities also provide student health services, offering affordable or free consultations. Insurance not only helps with medical expenses but is also a visa requirement for non-EU students.
Tips to Reduce the Cost of Living in Galway
- Live in shared apartments: Splitting rent and utilities lowers accommodation costs.
- Use student discounts: From buses to cinemas always carry your student ID.
- Cook at home: Prepare meals at home and shop at Aldi or Lidl.
- Cycle or walk: Galway is small enough to get around without relying on taxis.
- Plan social spending: Galway nightlife is fun but can get expensive. Budget wisely.
- Apply for scholarships: Some universities offer financial support to help cover living expenses.
Conclusion
Living in Galway offers international students an excellent balance of affordability, cultural richness, and quality education. With a monthly budget of around €1,000–€1,400, you can comfortably manage your expenses while enjoying everything the city has to offer. From cheaper rent than Dublin to vibrant student life and part-time job opportunities, Galway is an ideal choice for those who want the full Irish student experience without overspending.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much does it cost to live in Galway as a student?
On average, students in Galway spend between €1,000 and €1,400 per month covering rent, food, transport, and other essentials.
2. Is Galway cheaper than Dublin for students?
Yes, Galway is generally more affordable than Dublin, especially for rent and daily expenses, making it a popular choice for students.
3. How much is student accommodation in Galway?
Student accommodation costs range from €350–€750 per month, depending on whether you choose shared housing, on-campus, or private apartments.
4. Can international students find affordable housing in Galway?
Yes, shared apartments and homestays are budget-friendly options starting at €350, but demand is high, so early booking is recommended.
5. How much do groceries cost in Galway per month?
Expect to spend €200–€300 monthly on groceries if you shop at affordable supermarkets like Aldi, Lidl, or Tesco.
6. Is eating out expensive in Galway?
Yes, dining out is pricier compared to cooking. A student meal costs €7–€10, while a restaurant meal averages €12–€20.
7. What is the cost of transportation in Galway for students?
A student monthly bus pass costs about €50–€60, but many students walk or cycle since the city is compact.
8. Do international students need health insurance in Galway?
Yes, non-EU students must purchase private health insurance costing €150–€600 per year, depending on coverage.
9. Are utilities included in Galway student housing?
Some on-campus options include utilities, but in shared rentals, expect to pay €100–€150 monthly for electricity, internet, and heating.
10. Can I work part-time while studying in Galway?
Yes, international students can work up to 20 hours per week during term and 40 hours in holidays, helping offset living costs.
11. Are there scholarships to cover living expenses in Galway?
Some universities offer scholarships and bursaries that can help reduce tuition fees and support living expenses.
12. Is Galway safe for international students?
Yes, Galway is considered one of Ireland’s safest student cities with a friendly, welcoming community.
13. What’s the cheapest accommodation option in Galway?
Shared housing is the most affordable, starting from €350 per month, especially when costs are split among roommates.
14. Is Galway worth the cost for international students?
Absolutely. Galway balances affordability, quality education, and cultural vibrancy, making it one of Ireland’s best student destinations.