20 reasons to live and work in Cork

Moving to a new city for a tech job is a big decision, so it’s important you can see a lifestyle that suits you, as well as a happy working atmosphere in your new location. Cork in Ireland has become something of a tech hub, so it may be on your list for potential job opportunities. Here’s our top 20 reasons why it’s a great place to live and work.

1. Cork has been ranked number one in the best small city in Europe for business friendliness list by the Financial Times’ fDi magazine.
2. In 2020, it was announced that Cork is the second-largest English-speaking city in the EU, making it a great option for experiencing a cosmopolitan vibe without the language barrier.
3. Cork Airport is located just six kilometres from the city centre and is well-connected by public transport. Eight scheduled airlines operate services to destinations across Europe, allowing for easy travel to visit relatives or enjoy a city break.
4. Brittany Ferries runs regular services from the Port of Cork to Roscoff in northwestern France, opening up the whole continent to be travelled by car.
5. Cycling is encouraged in Cork and a map has been created to help facilitate those who wish to navigate the city on two wheels. 330 bikes are available to hire from 31 locations across Cork, with hourly rates, three-day passes or yearly subscriptions available. Cyclists keen to commute by bike can take advantage of the government’s Bike to Work scheme to receive tax-free equipment.
6. Families relocating to Cork will find the schools, beaches and amenities of East Cork attractive. Villages like Midleton, Castlemartyr and Killeagh are within commuting distance of the city.
7. There’s a great cafe culture in the Douglas area of the city, which is perfect for couples, as long as your tech salary is high enough to afford the higher rents and buying costs in this district.
8. The cost of living in Cork is favourable when compared to other European cities, such as London. Without factoring in rent, Cork is 4.5 per cent less expensive than London. With rental rates 41.6 per cent lower than the English capital, a move to Cork looks even more cost effective.
9. Some 29,000 people are employed in tech within the Cork region, making it an interesting place to be in terms of innovation. Apple, Dell and Amazon all have a presence in Cork.
10. The city is the gateway to the Wild Atlantic Way, the 2,600-kilometre scenic coastal route that stretches from the Inishowen Peninsula to the town of Kinsale. Exploring sections of the route is a must during time away from the office if working in Cork.
11. Cork is a fantastic foodie destination, with four Michelin-starred restaurants in the vicinity. To cook for yourself, a visit to the English Market is a must, as it’s one of the oldest covered markets in Europe, dating back to 1788.
12. The annual festival calendar in Cork is dominated by music, with jazz, choral and folk all represented. For something a little more esoteric, there are horse fairs, boat building and a Halloween lantern parade.
13. Sport is a big deal in Cork and there are plenty of local teams to get behind. As well as football and rugby, the locals obsessively follow hurling and Gaelic football, making these atmospheric matches to attend.
14. If participating in sport is more your thing, high-profile events like the Cork City Marathon and Lee Swim take place annually. Alternatively, you could just grab a sea kayak or a paddleboard to enjoy Cork Harbour.
15. Getting out into nature in Cork is relatively easy, with several parks and gardens within easy reach of the city. They include the public Fitzgerald Park with sections dedicated to a rose garden, wildflowers and a fountain.
16. Cork’s shopping district is centred around Patrick Street, with Princes Street, Oliver Plunkett Street and North Main Street all close by. MacCurtain Street has more specialist retailers, like antiques and musical instruments.
17. Irish pub culture is alive and well in Cork, with most pubs offering live music on a regular basis. The Mutton Lane Inn is amongst the oldest in the city and situated in an alleyway decorated with an impressive mural.
18. There are many beaches within an hour’s drive of the city of Cork, making them easily accessible on the weekends or after work during the summer months. Myrtleville, Garretstown and Fountainstown Beach should be high up on your list, but if you live in Cork there’ll be lots of opportunities to visit a wide selection of them.
19. Often overlooked by tourists in favour of Dublin or Galway, Cork doesn’t get overcrowded with visitors. Despite this, there’s still plenty to show friends and family when they do come to visit.
20. Cork is the Republic of Ireland’s second largest city and often dubbed ‘the real capital’ by locals.

If you would like to discuss our current opportunities in Cork or a potential career move, please contact me on Vicky.fellows@ic-resources.com

Read more information on Cork in our comprehensive city guide.