When choosing whether to live in Ireland or Scotland,  there are several things you need to take into consideration before making such a big decision. 

Luckily, we’ve taken into account 15 elements to help you choose, from each country’s best sights to their labour market statistics. 

If you’re interested to learn if it’s better to live in Ireland or Scotland, keep reading! 

Is it better to live in Scotland or Ireland?

Of course, the answer completely boils down to your personal preference. 

Say, if you don’t mind a higher cost of living, then residing in Ireland should be no problem. If you prefer bold mountains and coastlines, then Scotland is the way to go! 

We’ve prepared a table with a comprehensive outline of each element’s winner. Don’t worry, we’ll discuss each one in detail afterward.

Elements	Winner	Summary
Cost of Living	Scotland	The total cost of living in Ireland is just shy of 14% more expensive than in the UK.
Quality of Life	Ireland	Ireland ranked second-highest in terms of quality of life out of 189 countries.
Weather	Ireland	Ireland has less extreme weather conditions than Scotland, though it experiences similar amounts of rainfall.
Public Transportation	Tied	Both countries have efficient modes of public transportation which include buses and trains. All run through most major cities and towns.
Immigration Process	Tied	It’s a tie as both countries have quite a lengthy immigration process, but present several pathways for immigrants to stay.
Food	Tied	Both countries make deliciously hearty meals that have a rich flavor and history.
Sights and Destinations	Tied	It’s another tie as it boils down to your personal preferences – Scotland is known for its bold and varied landscapes while Ireland is popular for its greenery and natural sights.
Political System	Tied	Both countries follow a similar political system that’s influenced by the UK’s British parliament.
Language	Tied	It’s tied as both countries can speak English and have their own native languages.
Safety	Ireland	According to the Global Peace Index (GPI), Ireland ranked 3rd most peaceful country while the UK ranked 34 out of 163 countries.
Culture	Tied	While both have historic ties to the Celts and the United Kingdom, Scotland and Ireland have several unique differences in culture that we can individually appreciate.
Labour Market	Tied	Both countries have a growing market and a high demand for professionals in the healthcare and ICT industries.
Work-Life Balance	Ireland	Ireland sees lower employees working longer paid hours and nearly meet the average hours spent on personal care and leisure activities.
Buying or Renting Property	Tied	Both countries allow non-residents to acquire mortgages and buy properties as long as they follow the legal processes.
People	Tied	Both countries have friendly and hospitable people.
Religion	Tied	The majority of both populations claim to have a religion, with the most popular one in Scotland being Church of Scotland and Roman Catholicism in Ireland.

Since that’s just the gist of it, read on to discover more 

1. Cost of Living

Photograph: John McArthur on Unsplash

Cost of living is one of the most important factors to consider as you’ll need to secure enough money to sustain your daily expenses. 

According to a study by Provident Personal Credit done in 2018, the total cost of living in Ireland is just shy of 14% more expensive than in the UK.

A comparison done by Living Cost found that the cost of living in Dublin, Ireland’s capital, is 34% more expensive than in Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital.

Here are two fast facts you’ll appreciate:

Fact #1: Dublin was found to be the 7th least financially viable city to live in of 56 major cities worldwide by the CIA Landlord. In fact, it’s part of the top 3% of the most expensive cities to live in worldwide.

Fact #2: Glasgow was dubbed the 7th most financially viable city to live in. This includes 6 other major cities in the UK. However, Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital, is a part of the 24% of the most expensive cities to live in worldwide.

With these in mind, you can expect rental properties, food, and other consumer products to be more expensive in Ireland.

Here’s a comparison of what average monthly expenses would look like in both Scotland and Ireland’s capital cities for an individual and a family of four in USD:

Expenses	Edinburgh, Scotland		Dublin, Ireland
	Individual	Family of 4	Individual	Family of 4
1 bedroom apartment in city centre	$1,080		$1,671
3 bedroom apartment in city centre	$2,059		$2,648
Groceries	$413	$1,652	$487	$1,948
Utilities	$119	$184	$123	$188
Internet plan (50 Mbps)	$28.8		$47.2
Transportation	$126	$504	$187	$748
Gas or petrol (1 L)	$1.92		$1.98

Data retrieved from LivingCost.org for Edinburgh and Dublin

It’s important to keep in mind that these numbers can change depending on your lifestyle and spending habits. 

 2. Quality of Life

Photograph: Jay Chen on Unsplash

A study by the UNDP Human Development Report Index in 2020 on the ratings of quality of life ranked Ireland second-highest out of 189 countries.

Quality of life is measured in three dimensions: 

1. The ability to live a long and healthy life
2. The equal and equitable opportunities to access education
3. A decent standard of living, which entails a comfortable living situation

Even so, it’s important to note that Scotland doesn’t fall far behind as its average rate of happiness is significantly higher than the average value.

Unfortunately for Scotland, compared to other UK nations, it scored relatively low in income and health as revealed by Fraser of Allander Institute. Even so, it scored well in employment and education.

3. Weather

Photograph: bckfwd on Unsplash

When it comes to weather, be prepared for relatively mild to cold temperatures in both Scotland and Ireland. Both also see quite a tonne of cloud coverage and rainfall throughout the year.

The table below summarises what temperatures to expect from both places throughout the year:

Season	Scotland		Ireland
Spring	Average timeline	March to May	Average timeline	March to April
	Average temperatures	45 to 55°F or 7 to 12°C	Average temperatures	46 – 53°F or 8 to 12°C
Summer	Average timeline	May to August	Average timeline	June to August
	Average temperatures	52 to 66°F or 11 to 18°C	Average temperatures	50 to 66°F or 15 to 20°C
Autumn or Fall	Average timeline	September to October	Average timeline	September to November
	Average temperatures	46 to 57°F or 7 to 13°C	Average temperatures	52 to 57°F or 9 to 13°C
Winter	Average timeline	October to February	Average timeline	December – February
	Average temperatures	34 to 45°F or 1 to 13°C	Average temperatures	40 to 46°F 5 or 8 to 13°C

4. Public Transportation

Photograph: Matthew Henry on Unsplash

It’s worth highlighting that both Scotland and Ireland have great modes of public transportation. They have trains and buses with routes that go through the countries’ major cities and towns.

	Scotland	Ireland
Modes of Public Transportation	• Bus or express coach • Ferry • Subway • Tram	• Bus • Ferry • Train • Taxi

The best way to get around Scotland is via bus as you can take one across all major towns and cities. It’s also one of the most affordable options available.

The second-best way to get around is via train. This is often a quicker alternative to taking the bus and you can enjoy the lovely scenery, too.

Similarly, Ireland’s main modes of public transportation are through buses and trains since they’re available in all cities. Aside from being cost-effective, you’ll get a tour around the city, too.

Driving

When it comes to driving, we’ll have to give it to Scotland because of their wider roads and considerably less traffic. However, driving on the left-hand side of the road whilst having a right-side wheel can be a tricky feat for some.

In Ireland, it’s a tad difficult to get around by car because of their narrow roads and heavy traffic. So, it may be a better option to travel via public transportation instead.

To boot, both countries have daily walkable cities. However, visiting the more rural parts of the country may be a tad tricky. 

• Traveling rural Scotland: The only way to get around the rural areas of Scotland is via bus. However, keep in mind that some islands don’t have any modes of public transportation. 

• Traveling rural Ireland: As for getting around the Irish countryside, it’s a tad easier if you have a car. Though traveling by bike is doable, too, especially for relatively short distances.

5. Immigration Process

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We’ve outlined the most common immigration routes for both Scotland and Ireland to give you a better point of comparison.

	Scotland	Ireland
Most popular long-term visa options	• UK Spouse Visa • UK Fiancé(e) Visa • Scotland Working Visas • Tier 2 (General) Visa	• Irish Residency • Irish Business Visas • Irish Work Visas • Irish Study Visa • Irish Family Visas
Eligibility requirements	Depending on the immigration route you intend to pursue, other supporting documents may be requested. Nevertheless, the following are the typical eligibility requirements:
	• Current and valid passport that will expire at least 3 months after departure from the UK • Credible reason for visiting the UK for a long period (e.g., meeting family, business, or tourism) • Sufficient funds and substantial financial stability to cover living costs (for themselves and any dependents) • Proof of accommodation	• Current and valid passport that will expire at least 6 months after departure from Ireland • Proof that the applicant will come to Ireland for the purpose stated in their visa • Proof that the applicant intends to leave after their visa’s expiry or will make arrangements to acquire a new visa before the expiration of their current one • Proof of that the applicant has sufficient funds and financial stability (for themselves and any dependents)
	For more information on Scotland’s immigration processes and requirements, click here.	To know more about Ireland’s immigration processes and requirements, click here.

Given that Scotland is part of the UK, it follows the UK government’s immigration process and laws. On top of that, since the UK left the EU, there are certain newfound limitations to having UK citizenship.

As for Ireland, the immigration process is a tad simpler since they impose its own processes and laws. After 5 years of living in the country, you can already apply for residency.

Keep in mind that immigration requirements for both counties may change without prior notice. Hence, regularly check their official government channels for updated information.

Fun fact: Did you know that you can become an Irish or Scottish citizen through your grandparents? Even if neither you nor your parents weren’t born in either country, you can apply if at least one of your grandparents were.

If you have Irish lineage, you can register your birth or apply for naturalisation. 

If you have Scottish lineage, you can apply for a UK ancestry visa. 

6. Food

Photograph: Lily Banse on Unsplash

Since they’re both in Europe, you can expect quite a few similarities when it comes to how they prepare their meals. 

Both countries’ dishes revolve around stews and soups, which are based on beef and vegetables. 

Here are a few of Scotland’s most famous dishes:

Haggis

Photograph: Food Network

A traditional Scottish dish, haggis is made of boiled or baked finely chopped sheep entrails (usually lungs, liver, and heart) mixed with suet, oatmeal, and several kinds of seasonings and spices.

When served haggis, it’s often complemented with mashed turnips (locally referred to as neeps) and mashed potatoes (locally referred to as tatties).

Grouse 

Photograph: Great British Chefs

A bird that’s often hunted between August and December in Scottish moors, roasted or stewed grouse is a well-known delicacy that’s treasured for its distinct flavours.

The meat is plump, reddish in colour, and gamey in taste. One bird is usually enough for a single person.

Stovies

Photograph: The Spruce Eats

A potato-based dish dating back to Scotland’s difficult past, stovies is often referred to as the food of the working class, given that it’s inexpensive yet filling. 

Though many households have their own variations, stovies are essentially mashed potatoes stewed in lard or butter. Leftover vegetables and meat are often included to add more flavour and depth to the dish.

On the other hand, here are a few well-known dishes from Ireland:

Irish Stew 

Photograph: Simply Recipes

Invented in the 1800s, this simple yet hearty stew was made for the lower class as it used cheap and accessible vegetables (originally onions and potatoes) and meat (often mutton).

Nowadays, beef is often used as an alternative and most add a variety of other vegetables such as carrots.

Potato Soup 

Photograph: Anilda’s Ethnic Spoon

Another dish born out of hard times, the classic potato soup was also considered a lower-class meal since meat was hard to come by in the 1800s.

The soup is made out of slow-cooked potatoes mixed with onions and a bit of seasoning. Today, it’s enjoyed by many families, especially given its simplicity.

Boxty 

Photograph: The Daring Gourmet

Also referred to as ‘Irish Potato Pancakes’, boxty is another inventive way to cook already cooked potatoes. The mashed potatoes are formed into a patty and fried.

It’s best served with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of salt and chopped scallions. While it’s great on its own, some enjoy boxty alongside bacon, eggs, or pork and beans.

7. Sights and Destinations

Photograph: Jack Anstey on Unsplash

Admittedly, this is a tough one given that both countries are incredibly sought-after tourist destinations with a tonne of historical sights and scenic views. 

What you’ll see in Scotland

Scotland is best known for its varied landscapes, having several picturesque natural formations such as mountains, coastlines, and hills. 

Here are a few of Scotland’s most popular tourist attractions: 

Loch Ness

Photograph: Historic UK

As its name suggests, Loch Ness is a magnificent lake popularised by the signing of a mysterious monster, Nessie, living beneath the surface when it was first photographed in 1933. 

Since then, many have come to see the world-famous scenery first-hand, whether it be by boat, bike, or trail.

Isle of Skye

Photograph: Earth Trekkers

The Isle of Skye is another hot tourist destination given its magnificent scenery. Many come for a mellow drive while the more adventurous lot take on the hiking trail.

Ideally, the Isle of Skye is best toured on a 2-day vacation. This way, you can take your time to check out all the hidden gems and explore the island.

Rockcliffe Beach

Photograph: Visit Scotland

Apart from the beautiful ocean scenery, Rockcliffe Beach is famous for the picturesque village behind it. 

It’s a great place to walk, have a picnic, and simply relax. Though, it’s important to note that the beach is closed from May to June to give way to breeding birds.

What you’ll see in Ireland

Ireland is more popular for its many historical sights, tourist destinations, and open greenery. Even so, it also has various impressive landscapes, though they aren’t as bold.

Here are a couple of Ireland’s most popular tourist attractions: 

Guinness Storehouse

Photograph: MICE Industry

Website: https://www.guinness-storehouse.com/en

Operating hours: Monday – Thursday: 10 AM – 7:45 PM (Last admission is at 5 PM)

Friday – Saturday: 9:30 AM – 8:45 PM (Last admission is at 6 PM)

Sunday: 9:30 AM – 7:45 PM (Last admission is at 5 PM)

Contact Information: +353 1 408 4800; [email protected]

If you’re a fan of beer, whiskey, and cocktails, what better way is there to learn about their rich history than in Dublin of all places? 

The Guinness Storehouse boasts an iconic tour spanning 7 floors and a unique 360 view of the city of Dublin. 

Fees start at €26 for the Guinness Storehouse Experience (their most basic tour) and up to €80 for the Connoisseur Experience.

Cliffs of Moher

Photograph: Travel + Leisure

At 702 feet above sea level, this iconic Irish destination is one of Ireland’s most famous sights. 

The coast spans 5 miles along the ocean that’s been in several blockbuster films such as “The Princess Bride” and “Harry Potter & the Half-Blood Prince”.

Powerscourt Waterfall

Photograph: Powerscourt Hotel

Website: https://powerscourt.com/waterfall/ 

Opening hours: Daily: 9:30 AM – 7 PM

Contact Information: +353 1 2046 000; [email protected]

A natural phenomenon, the Powerscourt Waterfall is actually Ireland’s highest waterfall at 121m. 

The Powerscourt Waterfall is situated in a beautiful parkland that’s perfect for a leisurely walk or relaxing picnic with family and friends whilst you listen to the sound of water.

7. Political System

Photograph: Hansjörg Keller on Unsplash

	Scotland	Ireland
System	British parliament and Scottish parliament	Republic of Ireland – Independent state Northern Ireland – British parliament

Political System in Scotland

Since Scotland is a constituent of the UK, they’re under the British parliament regarding matters concerning economic policy, national defence, and foreign affairs, to name a few. 

In 1999, they established the Scottish parliament, which is in charge of domestic affairs. This includes making decisions over matters concerning education, tourism, and health, among others.

Political System in Ireland

On the other hand, Ireland’s political system is divided into two because the Republic of Ireland gained its independence in 1949 while Northern Ireland remains a part of the UK.

The Republic of Ireland is a fully independent state that has its own democratic government and parliament. Meanwhile, Northern Ireland is under the British parliament. 

8. Language

Photograph: Juri Gianfrancesco

	Scotland	Ireland
Primary language(s) spoken	• English	• English • Irish (Gaelic)
Other languages or dialects	• Scottish Gaelic • Scots (Lowland Scots)	• Ullans (Ulster-Scots)

Languages in Scotland

The majority of the Scottish population speaks English, which is great news for travelers and immigrants as English is widely used in other countries as well.

Scottish Gaelic is one of Scotland’s native languages that is critically endangered as less than 60,000 people use it daily. Because of this, it’s taught in schools in an attempt to preserve and revive it. 

Another native Scottish language is Scots or Lowland Scots. Some say it’s a West Germanic language while others claim it’s closely related to English but with a heavy Scottish accent.

Languages in Ireland

In Ireland, both English and Irish (Gaelic) are the country’s official languages. Though, you’ll most likely encounter Hiberno-English, which is a blend of both Irish and English. 

You’ll find most Irish-speaking people along the west coast. Meanwhile, up north, you’re more likely to hear people conversing in Ullans (Ulster-Scots).

9. Safety 

Photograph: James Wheeler

	United Kingdom	Ireland
Overall GPI Score	1.667	1.288

Note: The lower the score, the more peaceful the country

While Scotland and Ireland are generally peaceful countries, they both have their fair share of crime. With that said, both countries have a few cities with reputations that warrant a warning before visiting. 

According to the 2022 Global Peace Index (GPI), Ireland ranked 3rd most peaceful country while the UK ranked 34 out of 163 countries.

This ranking is measured by 23 qualitative and quantitative indicators as well as takes into consideration each country’s:

• Level of Societal Safety and Security
• Status of Ongoing Domestic and International Conflict
• Degree of Militarisation

10. Culture

Photograph: Lucrezia Carnelos on Unsplash

While both have historic ties to the Celts and the United Kingdom, Scotland and Ireland have several unique differences in culture that we can individually appreciate. 

Everyone knows Scotland for…

Innovation

Photograph: Kai Bossom on Unsplash

The Scottish are well-known and appreciated for their ingenuity. In fact, many of today’s most used technologies came from brilliant Scottish minds.

These include the pedal-driven bicycle by Thomas Newcomen, practical telephone by Alexander Graham Bell, and Penicillin by Sir Alexander Fleming, among many others.

The Great Highland Bagpipes

Photograph: Jonathan Francisca on Unsplash

Though used by most countries with Celtic roots, The Great Highland Bagpipes are one of the most iconic pieces of Scottish tradition and history. 

They’re usually played for music and ceremonial events. These include weddings, dances, funerals, and wakes.

Single Malt Scottish Whisky

Photograph: Kelly Visel on Unsplash

One of the reasons many visit Scotland is for their world-class distilleries and whisky. In fact, the whiskey trade is one of the country’s most dominant drivers in the Scottish economy.

What sets single malt Scottish whisky apart from the rest is that it uses premium malted barley and pure spring water. It’s also left to mature for at least 3 years, often decades, in oak barrels.

Scotland has 5 whiskey regions: Lowland, Campbelltown, Speyside, Highland, and Islay. So, you can expect each to have their own unique take on how to make renowned Scottish whisky.

Everyone knows Ireland for…

Storytelling

Photograph: Aaron Burden on Unsplash

Did you know that the Irish are known for storytelling? You’ll be surprised that many of your favourite well-respected authors are actually from Ireland.

These include the likes of Oscar Wilde famous for ‘The Importance of Being Earnest’, C.S. Lewis famous for ‘The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe’, and John Banville famous for ‘The Untouchable’. 

Tavern Music

Photograph: ready made on Pexels

The Irish are also iconic for their upbeat tavern music. After giving it a listen, you’ll feel as if you’ve been brought back in time to the medieval era.

In our opinion, they’re the perfect tunes to complement a couple pints of beer. Don’t you think so?

Here are a few famous Irish pub songs you should have a listen to:

• Come In by The Irish Rovers
• Molly Malone by Johnny Logan & Friends
• Seven Drunken Nights by Celtic Thunder
• Whiskey, You’re the Devil by The Poxy Boggards

Gaelic Football

Photograph: Susan Patterson on Unsplash

Gaelic Football or GAA is the Scottish version of regular football. The ball used is a tad smaller and heavier with the aim of getting it across the rugby-style H goal posts.

Having said that, it resembles both soccer and rugby quite a bit, but historically predates both games. It was first played in 1802 and it’s unlikely you’ll see it being played elsewhere.

11. Labour Market

Photograph: Andrea Piacquadio on Pexels

	Scotland	Ireland
Most common jobs	• Healthcare • Social work • Retail	• Sales • Retail • Farming
Jobs in high demand	• Finance professionals • Engineering professionals • Healthcare professionals	• Engineering professionals • ICT professionals  • Healthcare professionals
Growing sectors	• Fishing • Food and drink • Forestry • Oil and gas • Textiles • Renewable energy	• Pharmaceuticals • IT • Engineering • Medicine • Healthcare • Construction
Declining sectors	• Arts, Culture, and Recreation • Accommodation • Retail	• Retail • Wholesale • Hospitality • Marketing

Like any other country, job opportunities vary depending on your nationality, educational attainment, skills, and experience.

Hence, it’s best to apply for jobs in sectors experiencing a shortage of employees or constantly in demand by the market.

Scotland’s Labour Market

Scotland’s labour market is seeing growth in sectors such as the fishing, forestry, food and drinks, textiles, oil and gas, and renewable energy industries. 

It’s also worth keeping in mind that they’re on the hunt for professionals in the fields of finance, healthcare, and engineering. 

Ireland’s Labour Market

On the other hand, Ireland’s job market has seen a boom in industries such as pharmaceuticals, information technology, engineering, medicine, healthcare, and construction. 

Jobs in high demand include professionals working in the fields of engineering, healthcare, and ICT. 

Unfortunately, both Ireland and Scotland are seeing a decline in industries related to art, culture, and hospitality. However, these are expected to pick up post-pandemic. 

12. Work-Life Balance

Photograph: Malte Helmhold on Unsplash

OECD Better Life IndexWork-Life Balance Ranking	United Kingdom	Ireland
Overall Ranking (10 is the best)	5.6	6.2
Employee’s work hours	31st out of 41	22nd out of 41
Employee’s time for personal care and leisure	23rd out of 41	31st out of 41

In a nutshell, the OECD Better Life Index’s Work-Life Balance Ranking assesses an employee’s ability to easily balance work, family, and personal commitments.

The ranking assessed the following metrics:

• Employee’s work hours
• Employee’s time for personal care and leisure

UK’s Work-Life Balance

Out of 41 countries, the UK fares quite poorly at 5.6 with the highest score being 10. 

The study shows that 11% of workers spend more long hours doing paid work. Though, this is just a tad more than the OECD average of 10%.

Meanwhile, the study revealed that 69% of full-time workers’ time is spent on personal care and leisure activities, amounting to 14.9 hours, which is just shy of the 15-hour OECD average.

However, a recent study by Censuswide in 2019 revealed that 58% of workers across Scotland and varying levels of seniority are experiencing burnout and low employee morale.

Ireland’s Work-Life Balance

Out of 41 countries, Ireland fares quite well at 6.2 with the highest score being 10. However, there could be more improvements.

The study revealed that 5% of Irish employees work at least 50 paid hours per week, which is significantly less than the 10% OECD average.

According to the European Working Time Directives, there’s a working cap of 48 hours per week. Employees are also entitled to 15-minute unpaid breaks which are given after a 4-hour work period, and then after a 6-hour work period.  

Meanwhile, 63% of full-time workers’ time is spent on personal care and leisure activities, amounting to 14.5 hours, which is less than the 15-hour OECD average.

It’s also great news that the EU Work-Life Balance Directive (Directive (EU) 2019/1158) has been proposed, aiming to make work arrangements more flexible for their employees, especially parents and carers.

13. Buying or Renting Property

Photograph: Rowan Heuvel on Unsplash

	Scotland	Ireland
City with the highest rent	Edinburgh has an average monthly rent of  £1,053	Dublin has an average monthly rent of €2,244
City with the lowest rent	Dundee has an average monthly rent of £462	Leitrim has an average monthly rent of €695
Can a non-resident get a mortgage?	Yes	Yes
Can a non-resident buy a house or property?	Yes	Yes

Figuring out where you’re going to live when you get to either Scotland or Ireland should definitely be at the top of your list. 

Accommodations in Scotland

Unsurprisingly, Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh, has the highest average monthly rent at £1,053. Meanwhile, a little up north, Dundee has the cheapest average monthly rent at just £462, nearly half of Edinburgh’s.

As for getting a commercial mortgage for non-residents, it’s possible as long as you meet the lender’s eligibility and affordability requirements.

Acquiring a mortgage is fairly straightforward, too. Once you’ve secured all your requirements and gotten in touch with a mortgage broker to help you out, you can begin bidding for properties.

Once your offer has been accepted, the transaction is already legally binding. So, you’ll just have to deal with the nitty-gritty details or what’s often referred to as ‘concluding the missives’. 

Non-residents are also allowed to purchase a house or property. Like any other country, you will just need to follow their legal process to ensure that you, the buyer, and the seller are protected throughout the transaction.

Keep in mind that purchasing a house or property does not entitle the owner to residency. Hence, you’ll still have to go through Scotland’s immigration process to legally stay in the country.

Accommodations in Ireland

Similarly, Ireland’s capital, Dublin, has the highest average monthly rent at €2,244. Over west, Leitrim has the lowest average monthly rent at €695.

When it comes to acquiring mortgages, Irish lenders will typically only consider non-residents who have been living in Ireland for at least 6 months and have been working for at least 12 months.

In 2016, the EU introduced the Mortgage Credit Directive, which sets restrictions for lenders to transact with foreign currencies. Hence, it’ll be easier for you to acquire a mortgage if most of your income is in euros.

If you meet your lender’s eligibility and affordability requirements, then you can begin bidding on properties.

As for purchasing a home or property, there are no residency-based restrictions. Hence, you can purchase a property as long as it’s done legally.

Though, it’s important to note that this does not entitle the owner of the home or property residency. 

14. People

Photograph: Ryoji Iwata on Unsplash

Scotland	Ireland
• Friendy • Hospitable • Humourous • Adventurous	• Talkative • Friendly • Hospitable • Laid back

What are the Scottish like?

The Scottish have a reputation for being happy and friendly folk. In fact, a study done by Cambridge University revealed that amongst all the people in the UK, the Scottish are the most friendly and cooperative.

Apart from that, they’re known for their sense of humour, too. Hence, don’t be too surprised to find yourself the butt of the joke from time to time. 

Given their scenic mountains and gorgeous coastlines, the Scottish are quite adventurous. So, expect your weekends to be filled with plans to go hiking, trekking, or swimming.

What are the Irish like?

Many would agree that the Irish are absolute chatterboxes. They can talk about anything and everything under the bright ‘ole sun.

Hence, you won’t have to worry about breaking the ice with them given their stellar social skills. 

With that said, they’re also incredibly hospitable. These social butterflies love telling stories and sharing food, so you’ll definitely have a full stomach and an earful by the end of the night.

They’re also known to be quite laid back. They enjoy the simple things in life such as a pint of beer at a local pub.

15. Religion

Photograph: Patrick Fore on Unsplash

Rank	Scotland	Ireland
1	Church of Scotland (42.40%)	Roman Catholic (78%)
2	Roman Catholic (15.88%)	Church of Ireland / Anglican (3%)
3	Other Christian (6.81%)	Muslim (1%)

In Scotland, 67% of the population claim to have religious beliefs. Among these, most belong to the Church of Scotland. The second most populated religion is Roman Catholic whilst Other Christian comes in third.

On the other hand, 90.2% of the Irish population claim to have religious beliefs. Of these believers, most are Roman Catholic, then Church of Ireland or Anglican, and then Muslim.

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That concludes our list of the 15 things you should consider before choosing to live in Ireland or Scotland. Whichever you pick, it should be what resonates with your circumstances and wants the most.

Having said that, do you think it’s better to live in Ireland or Scotland? Let us know by leaving us a message!