Arklow has been ranked Ireland’s best town for work-life balance, according to new research from Switcher.ie.
The study assessed towns and cities nationwide using a broad set of criteria, including median house prices, crime rates, broadband and mobile coverage, transport links, access to schools and supermarkets, leisure facilities, and proximity to green spaces.
Arklow secured first place on the Work Life Balance Index thanks to its relatively affordable property market, strong connectivity for hybrid workers, range of local amenities, and access to scenic coastline and outdoor spaces.
House price data used in the study was based on the median residential property price in October 2025, drawn from the Residential Property Price Index.
Following Arklow in the rankings were:
Ballina
Enniscorthy
Wicklow
Cork
Ballina was highlighted as the most affordable town in the study for purchasing a home.
Other towns and cities stood out in specific areas:
Galway ranked highest for outdoor lifestyle and fitness opportunities.
Dublin, Cork and Kildare led the way in telecommunications connectivity.
Cork, Galway, Dublin and Sligo topped the rankings for transport connections.
Eoin Clarke, Commercial Director of Switcher.ie, said the research reflects changing priorities among homebuyers and remote workers.
“Property prices are often a crucial factor for homebuyers, but broadband and mobile connectivity, easy access to local amenities, and proximity to green spaces can have a huge impact when juggling work with family or other commitments.”
He added:
“Switcher’s research highlights several towns across Ireland that offer young professionals and working families a mix of affordability, accessibility, a superb quality of life, and excellent broadband and mobile connectivity for remote working.”
The findings underline how regional towns are increasingly competing with major cities, offering a strong combination of affordability, infrastructure and lifestyle benefits for modern workers.
