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Welcome to your comprehensive guide to the Ireland job market. Finding the right job or candidate requires solid data. We provide the latest statistics on employment, salaries, and economic indicators, empowering you to make informed decisions about your next career step or recruitment strategy in Ireland.
Job Market Overview: Employment Statistics in Ireland
Understanding Ireland's job market is crucial for both job seekers and employers. The country's current employment indicators show:
| Key Metric | Current Status |
|---|---|
| Total Population | 4.937.786 residents |
| Employment Rate | 61.7% (below OECD average) |
| Unemployment Rate | 4.32% (very competitive market) |
These Ireland employment statistics reveal a tight labor market where candidates should highlight specialized skills. The 61.7% employment rate suggests moderate job availability across sectors.
Living & Working in Ireland: Economic Insights
Before relocating or applying for jobs in Ireland, consider these key economic factors:
| Economic Indicator | Value | Comparison to U.S. |
|---|---|---|
| Average Monthly Salary | 3.236,44 USD | 72% of U.S. average (moderately lower) |
| Purchasing Power | 91.2 | strong compared to U.S. (100) |
With 91.2 purchasing power, salaries in Ireland provide comfortable living standards. The average monthly salary of 3.236,44 USD is particularly attractive in the Agriculture, Pharmaceuticals sector.
Top Industries & Job Opportunities in IE
Ireland's thriving job market spans these key sectors:
| Leading Industry | Agriculture, Pharmaceuticals (growing at 5% annually) |
| Emerging Sector | Manufacturing, Pharmaceuticals (25% of workforce) |
| Service Sector | Financial Services, IT (60% of GDP) |
| Major Employers | CRH, Ryanair, Kerry Group (hiring year-round) |
Job seekers should focus on Agriculture, Pharmaceuticals for the most opportunities, while Manufacturing, Pharmaceuticals offers growth potential. Major companies like CRH, Ryanair, Kerry Group frequently post openings for skilled professionals.
Data Sources & Methodology
The statistical data (Population, Employment, Economic Indicators) used in this guide is compiled from the following authoritative sources:
- Employment & Economic Data: World Bank Indicators
- Cost of Living & Salaries: Numbeo Cost of Living Database
- Proprietary Data: Analysis derived from expert interviews and Cityjobs.info internal salary research.
Disclaimer: Data Volatility Note
We strive to update all statistics and figures annually. However, due to the nature of global economics, data like employment rates, exchange values, and average salaries can change rapidly due to political events, economic shifts, or unforeseen crises. Always verify critical figures with local governmental or financial institutions before making major decisions.
CityJobs bridges the gap between job seekers and employers in Ireland, creating a more accessible and inclusive job market for all.

1. What's the employment situation in Ireland?
With a population of 4,937,786 and an employment rate of 61.7%, Ireland offers a competitive job market. The unemployment rate currently stands at 4.32%.
2. Which are the top companies in Ireland?
The leading employers in Ireland include CRH, Ryanair, Kerry Group. These companies offer diverse opportunities across multiple sectors.
3. How far does salary go in Ireland?
The purchasing power ratio in Ireland is 91.2, meaning cost of living should be carefully considered when evaluating job offers.
4. How can I find jobs in Ireland?
Search our listings filtered for Ireland. Focus on industries where CRH, Ryanair, Kerry Group are active, and consider that the 61.7% employment rate suggests moderate competition for positions.
5. What should I know about working in Ireland?
With CRH, Ryanair, Kerry Group as major employers, the job market tends to favor Manufacturing, Pharmaceuticals and Financial Services, IT.