Just returned to Ireland after 16 years...cost of living questions

lbplhs79

Hi all,

So grateful to have found boards.ie. Everyone has been really helpful. Big thanks.

I'm a returning emigrant...been away 16 years and only returned on visits in that time.

I'm a teacher and I'm back for a year or 2. I'll be living on my savings and will hopefully get a few days subbing each month to supplement.

Question I have is regarding the cost of living.

I'm paying myself an allowance of 1500 Euros a month to live on.

Rent is 550 Euros a month (family discount) Leaving 950 Euros a month for ESB bills, gym, phone, Netflix, Diesel for car, groceries etc

Is this realistic? Or do I need to completely overhaul my budget?

I'm in Cork by the way, not Dublin.

Granadino

Would be interested in the replies. I'm abroad currently, and if I come back, will be looking at Cork. (I'm not from there)

charlietheminxx

I think it's plenty.

ESB bills - very variable, depends on the property and your usage. €100 a month for the budget should be ok.
Gym - standard is between €30 - €60 per month.
Phone - standard is between €20 - €60 per month - €20 is plenty if you don't need a phone on contract.
Netflix - €15 a month (depending on what type of account)
Diesel for car - depends how much you're driving? Say €75 a month if you're not working.
Groceries - €250 per person per month.

That comes to around €650 a month using the higher end of the estimates. Plenty of wiggle room for higher bills and some nice extras.

Unless broadband is included in your rent you'll have to include that as well. Mine is 43 a month with digiweb.

48.ie have a deal on a rolling mobile contract for 9.99 a month.

I would struggle on 250 a month on groceries tbh.

Will you be house sharing or living alone?