Moving to Ireland from Florida
Trading sunshine for green landscapes: Your complete Florida to Ireland relocation guide
Biggest Adjustments for Floridians
Moving from Florida to Ireland means significant lifestyle changes - here's what to expect
Weather Shock
This is the biggest change. Ireland averages 50-60°F year-round with frequent rain. No more 90°F sunny days or beach weather.
Car Culture
Florida is car-dependent. Ireland has excellent public transit - most people in Dublin don't own cars. Plus, driving on the left side takes adjustment!
- Walk/bike everywhere
- Excellent bus/train system
- Gas costs $6.80/gallon
Housing Size
Florida homes are spacious. Irish apartments and houses are much smaller - think 800-1,200 sq ft vs Florida's 2,000+ sq ft average.
- No central AC (rarely needed)
- Smaller kitchens & bathrooms
- Less storage space
Florida vs Ireland: Cost Comparison
How your Florida expenses translate to Irish living costs
Housing Costs
Daily Expenses
Complete Cost Breakdown
| Item | Florida | Ireland | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Meal at Restaurant | $15 | $20 | +33% |
| Coffee | $4 | $4.50 | +13% |
| Gas (per gallon) | $3.20 | $6.80 | +113% |
| Gym Membership | $40 | $55 | +38% |
| Movie Ticket | $12 | $12 | Same |
| Beer at Bar | $6 | $7 | +17% |
Jobs for Floridians in Ireland
Florida's growing tech and tourism sectors translate well to Ireland's economy
Top Industries
- Technology: Google, Meta, Microsoft, Amazon all hiring
- Pharmaceuticals: Pfizer, Johnson & Johnson, Merck
- Tourism & Hospitality: Growing sector, familiar to Floridians
- Financial Services: Dublin's IFSC is Europe's financial hub
- Aviation: Shannon and Dublin airports expanding
Salary Expectations
Lifestyle: Florida vs Ireland
What Floridians love (and miss) about living in Ireland
What You'll Love
- No Hurricanes:
No more evacuation plans, boarding up windows, or hurricane season stress
- European Travel:
Weekend trips to Paris, Rome, Barcelona for < $100
- Healthcare Savings:
Save $5,000-10,000/year on health insurance and medical costs
- Walkable Cities:
No more driving everywhere - walk or bike to most places
- Work-Life Balance:
25+ vacation days standard, shorter work weeks
- Pub Culture:
Authentic Irish pubs with live music and community atmosphere
What You'll Miss
- Sunshine & Warmth:
This is the hardest adjustment - Ireland is cool, cloudy, and rainy
- Beaches:
Ireland has beautiful coastline, but water is too cold for swimming
- Cuban Food:
Miami's amazing Cuban cuisine doesn't exist in Ireland
- Theme Parks:
No Disney World, Universal, or major theme parks
- Space & Size:
Homes, cars, and portions are all much smaller
- Air Conditioning:
Most homes don't have AC (rarely needed, but summers can be uncomfortable)
Practical Tips for Floridians
Direct Flights
Aer Lingus flies direct from Orlando and Miami to Dublin (8-9 hours). Book 2-3 months ahead for best prices.
Tip: Overnight flights arrive Dublin morning - helps with jet lag
Wardrobe Overhaul
Pack layers, waterproof jackets, and warm clothes. Your Florida wardrobe won't work in Ireland!
Tip: Buy winter clothes in Ireland - better selection and quality
Downsize
Irish homes are 50-60% smaller than Florida homes. Sell or store most furniture before moving.
Tip: Shipping costs more than buying new in Ireland
Questions About Moving from Florida?
Our Ireland Relocation Expert can answer all your questions about visas, housing, weather adjustment, and life in Ireland
Ready to Make the Move?
Start your relocation journey with our comprehensive tools and resources
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