5 Best Places In Ireland Have Been Announced

Two towns in County Mayo, Castlebar and Ballina, have been named the best places in Ireland for achieving a healthy work-life balance, according to a recent ranking by energy price comparison site Switcher.ie. Castlebar clinched the top spot, with Ballina following closely behind.

(Also read Explore 10 Most Beautiful Beaches of Ireland.)

Ranking Criteria and Key Factors for Best Places In Ireland

The list, which ranks five towns, placed Longford Town in third, Wexford Town in fourth, and Arklow in Co. Wicklow in fifth.

Castlebar’s top position is attributed to its affordable housing, excellent local amenities, good connectivity for hybrid working, and abundant green spaces. The study evaluated work essentials such as broadband speed, mobile coverage, proximity to schools, GP surgeries, and major supermarkets. Factors key to well-being, including access to green spaces, cafes, and leisure facilities, were also considered, alongside house prices, commute times, and crime rates.

Additional towns such as Cavan, Ashbourne, Galway, and Mullingar received honourable mentions, while Westport in Co. Mayo has previously won similar accolades.

This study comes after the Irish Government passed the Work-Life Balance and Miscellaneous Provisions Act last year, which aims to support better family life, work life, and caring responsibilities. Eoin Clarke, Commercial Director at Switcher.ie, highlighted that the Act, once fully implemented, will enable many employees to request remote and flexible working arrangements, enhancing their quality of life.

All the towns in the study offer a blend of affordability and amenities, making them ideal for raising a family or enjoying life, whether working remotely or commuting.