Welcome to your guide to the Ireland job market. Finding the right job or candidate requires solid data. Here you will find key figures on employment, salaries and the economy to support your next career step or recruitment decision in Ireland.
Job market overview
| Key metric | Current value |
|---|---|
| Total population | 4,937,786 residents |
| Employment rate | 61.7% |
| Unemployment rate | 4.3%Low unemployment – employers often compete for skilled staff. |
With an unemployment rate of 4.3%, Ireland has a tight labor market. Skilled professionals are usually in demand.
Living & working in Ireland: salaries and cost of living
Before relocating or applying for jobs in Ireland, consider these key economic factors:
| Indicator | Value | Compared with the U.S. |
|---|---|---|
| Average monthly salary | 3,236 USD | 72% of the U.S. averagemoderately lower |
| Purchasing power | 91.2 | slightly weaker (U.S. = 100) |
With a purchasing power index of 91.2, the average monthly salary of 3,236 USD supports comfortable living standards in Ireland. Always compare an offer with local rents and living costs in the specific city.
Top industries & employers in IE
| Leading industry | Agriculture, Pharmaceuticals |
| Growth sector | Manufacturing, Pharmaceuticals |
| Service sector | Financial Services, IT |
| Major employers | CRH, Ryanair, Kerry Group |
Job seekers will usually find the most openings in Agriculture, Pharmaceuticals, while Manufacturing, Pharmaceuticals offers growth potential.
Working in Ireland – FAQ
What's the employment situation in Ireland?
Ireland has a population of about 4,937,786. The employment rate is 61.7%. The unemployment rate currently stands at 4.3%.
Which are the top companies in Ireland?
Large employers in Ireland include CRH, Ryanair, Kerry Group.
How far does a salary go in Ireland?
The purchasing power index for Ireland is 91.2 (U.S. = 100), which means the cost of living should be weighed carefully when comparing job offers.
How can I find jobs in Ireland?
Browse the latest international openings on Cityjobs and filter by country or remote work. Employers post directly, and you apply with the employer.
Which industries matter most in Ireland?
Agriculture, Pharmaceuticals is the leading industry, while Manufacturing, Pharmaceuticals is an important growth sector, alongside Financial Services, IT.
Data sources & methodology
The figures in this guide are compiled from these public sources:
- Employment & economic data: World Bank Indicators
- Cost of living & salaries: Numbeo Cost of Living Database
