Young Irish adults increasingly consider moving abroad for better prospects

A recent Red C survey commissioned by the National Youth Council of Ireland indicates that a substantial majority of 18- to 24-year-olds are thinking about emigrating, with 68% considering departure and 71% convinced it would raise their quality of life. The poll, based on responses from 1,010 young people, highlights housing costs, overall living expenses and the scarcity of secure, well-paid work as the primary anxieties.

Compared with last year’s figures, the concern over employment opportunities has risen markedly, and nine in ten say it is becoming more difficult to secure stable jobs. Additionally, 89% feel the housing crisis hits young people disproportionately, while transport costs and mental-health challenges also feature among respondents’ worries. The NYCI notes that 62,500 people left the State in the past year, with 32% of them aged 15-24, underscoring the demographic impact of this trend.