Athlone fifth cheapest student town - report
The cost of going to college in Athlone has hit €15,378 as students need €220 more than last year, according to a new report by Switcher.ie.
The report found that while the increase is €673 or 5% more than in 2023, Athlone remains Ireland’s fifth-cheapest student town. It costs €780 less than the national average and €4,612 less than Dublin over the academic year.
Athlone recorded the smallest overall increase in the study, with students spending around €24 more per month in 2026. The cost of accommodation averaged €569 per month, the fourth-lowest figure in the study, and Athlone has the fourth-cheapest grocery basket in the study, averaging €212 per month.
Dublin, Cork, Maynooth, Carlow, Limerick and Galway remain the six most expensive places to study, the study by the comparison and switching service found.
Dublin sits firmly at the top, costing students an average of €1,943 per month, with rent alone reaching €989 per month.
Commercial Director at Switcher.ie, Eoin Clarke, said the increases are making it more difficult for students and their families.
“Our research shows that rent and everyday expenses have added almost €500 to the average cost of college since last year,” he said. “Even in towns traditionally viewed as affordable, higher bills are making it harder for students and families to stretch their budgets.
“Accommodation continues to take one of the biggest bites out of student budgets. Some of the highest rent increases were recorded in Tralee, Cork, Dundalk and Sligo, where rising private student accommodation prices pushed up the average student accommodation cost in each town.” Mr Clarke said that the location of study now has an even bigger impact on student pockets, with a gap of almost €6,000 over the academic year between Dublin and Letterkenny.
“Athlone recorded the smallest overall increase in our study, while comparatively low accommodation and grocery costs continue to give local students a valuable head start over those studying in more expensive towns,” he continued.
“Before considering education loans, students and parents should explore financial supports like SUSI grants, scholarships and the Student Assistance Fund first. And remember to claim any tax relief due for tuition fees and rent.
“Planning a realistic budget before term begins can also help identify any shortfall early and reduce the need for expensive last-minute borrowing.”
