Moving to Ireland from Seattle
From the Pacific Northwest to the Emerald Isle: Your complete relocation guide
Why Seattle Tech Workers Choose Ireland
Ireland is becoming the top European destination for Seattle's tech professionals
Similar Weather
If you love Seattle's rainy, mild climate, you'll feel right at home in Ireland. No extreme temperatures, lots of green landscapes, and yes - plenty of rain!
Tech Hub
Dublin is Europe's Silicon Valley. Amazon, Microsoft, Google, Meta - all the Seattle tech giants have major European headquarters in Ireland.
Coffee Culture
Ireland's specialty coffee scene rivals Seattle's. Independent roasters, third-wave cafes, and a thriving barista culture - you won't miss your daily brew.
Seattle vs Dublin: Cost Comparison
How your Seattle expenses translate to Dublin living costs
Housing Costs
Tech Salaries
Monthly Budget Comparison
| Expense | Seattle | Dublin | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (1-bed, city center) | $2,400 | $1,800 | $600 |
| Groceries | $450 | $450 | $0 |
| Transportation | $200 | $140 | $60 |
| Healthcare | $400 | $100 | $300 |
| Utilities + Internet | $180 | $150 | $30 |
| Dining Out | $400 | $350 | $50 |
| Total Monthly | $4,030 | $2,990 | $1,040 |
💰 Save over $12,000 per year on living expenses in Dublin!
Seattle Tech Giants in Ireland
Transfer opportunities and job prospects for Seattle tech workers
Amazon
Amazon's European headquarters is in Dublin with over 2,500 employees. Internal transfers available for Seattle employees. AWS, Alexa, and retail teams all hiring.
- Internal transfer program
- Relocation package offered
- Visa sponsorship available
Microsoft
Microsoft's EMEA operations center in Dublin. Azure, Office 365, and Xbox teams. Strong preference for internal transfers from Redmond campus.
- Redmond to Dublin transfers common
- Competitive relocation benefits
- Similar company culture
Google's European HQ in Dublin with 8,000+ employees. Search, Ads, Cloud, and YouTube teams. Active hiring for experienced engineers.
- Largest tech employer in Ireland
- Seattle-level compensation
- Amazing campus and perks
Meta (Facebook)
Meta's international headquarters in Dublin. Instagram, WhatsApp, and Oculus teams. Strong engineering culture similar to Seattle office.
- 3,000+ employees in Dublin
- Competitive tech salaries
- Internal mobility encouraged
Lifestyle: Seattle vs Ireland
What Seattleites love (and miss) about Irish life
What You'll Love
- Similar Climate:
Mild, rainy weather year-round - you'll feel right at home
- Outdoor Culture:
Hiking, coastal walks, and green spaces everywhere
- Craft Beer Scene:
Ireland's craft brewery boom rivals Seattle's beer culture
- European Travel:
Weekend trips to Paris, Barcelona, Amsterdam for < $100
- Work-Life Balance:
25+ vacation days, shorter hours, less grind culture
- No Sales Tax:
VAT included in prices - what you see is what you pay
What You'll Miss
- Mountains:
No Cascades or Rainier - Ireland is flat by comparison
- Asian Food:
Seattle's amazing Asian cuisine doesn't exist in Ireland
- Seahawks Games:
Watching NFL means 6pm kickoffs become 2am wake-ups
- Pike Place Market:
No equivalent to Seattle's iconic farmers market
- Tech Salaries:
30-40% lower than Seattle (but costs are lower too)
- Amazon Prime Same-Day:
Delivery is slower and more expensive in Ireland
Practical Tips for Seattleites
Direct Flights
Aer Lingus flies direct Seattle (SEA) to Dublin (9-10 hours). Book 2-3 months ahead for best prices ($500-900 round trip).
Tip: Overnight flights arrive Dublin morning - perfect timing
Weather Prep
Bring your Seattle rain gear - it works perfectly in Ireland. Invest in good waterproof jacket and boots.
Tip: Ireland is milder - no need for heavy winter coats
Banking
Open Revolut or Wise before leaving Seattle. Avoid Bank of America/Chase international fees.
Tip: Keep your US account for credit history and 401k
Questions About Moving from Seattle?
Our Ireland Relocation Expert can answer all your questions about visas, housing, tech jobs, and life in Ireland
Ready to Make the Move?
Start your relocation journey with our comprehensive tools and resources
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