Osaka vs. Dublin: Detailed 2026 Comparison

Dublin demonstrates superior performance in key quality-of-life indicators, scoring higher on the overall Quality of Life Index (160.86 vs. 159.43 for Osaka) and significantly higher on the Safety Index (45.87 vs. 28.29). Conversely, Osaka excels in the Health Care Index (66.20 vs. 51.28) and shows a lower Pollution Index (41.39 vs. 60.95), indicating cleaner air. The Climate Index remains very similar between the two cities (85.89 for Dublin vs. 85.63 for Osaka).

Dublin is substantially more expensive than Osaka for nearly all daily living expenses. Food costs, particularly for mid-range restaurant meals, are considerably higher in Dublin. Transportation costs, including fuel, public transit, and taxis, are also significantly more expensive. Utilities for a standard apartment are more than double those in Osaka, and childcare represents another major cost difference. The general Cost of Living Index itself is much higher in Dublin (75.8) compared to Osaka (59.43).

The property market in Dublin is vastly more expensive than in Osaka. Average apartment prices per square meter are significantly higher in Dublin, both in city centers (€8,208.15 vs. ¥7,270.00) and in suburbs (€6,116.30 vs. ¥5,850.00). While the average monthly rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is higher in Dublin (€2,094.91 vs. ¥87,000), the difference is less dramatic than for outright purchase. Interest rates are comparable (3.81% vs. 3.81%), but the high purchase prices and rents in Dublin make housing significantly less affordable.

Transportation and utilities further highlight Dublin's higher cost structure. Fuel is more expensive, and both taxi and public transport fares are significantly more costly than in Osaka. Utilities, particularly the monthly cost for basic services in an 85m² apartment, are also much higher in Dublin (€263.62 vs. ¥8,500). This combined higher cost for getting around and powering a home makes living in Dublin considerably more expensive in this regard than Osaka.

Dublin offers significantly higher monthly salaries, with an average net monthly salary after tax considerably larger (€4,303.20 vs. ¥280,000). However, this higher income must be weighed against the much higher cost of living and property prices in Dublin, resulting in a lower net gain compared to Osaka, where the lower costs align more closely with the lower salary levels.