Going to college in Ireland now costs an average of more than €16,000 a year, an increase of almost €500 on last year, new research shows. The cost study tracks accommodation, utilities, groceries, transport, entertainment and gym costs across 12 student towns and cities and includes the annual €2,500 “student contribution” towards college fees. Average accommodation costs jumped €183 this year, and are now €547 higher per year than in 2023. 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.” The study found rising living costs “continue to weigh heavily on Ireland’s students, with accommodation, utilities and everyday expenses pushing the price of college higher again”.