Dublin has been ranked as the 13th most expensive city in the world. The capital has moved up from 14th position in a similar survey last year.
The study, carried out by an international firm of consultants Mercer, covers 144 cities on six continents, and measures the cost of more than 200 items, including housing, transport, food and entertainment.
Ireland shares 13th place with New York, which is the most expensive city in North America. The most expensive city in the world is Tokyo.
The survey is used by Governments and major multinational companies to calculate the allowances they should pay to expatriate employees. While Dublin comes close to the top, near neighbour London has been listed as the third most expensive city in the world.
Cities in EU accession countries have seen significant increases - Warsaw, Prague and Bratislava have each risen by at least 10 places in the rankings as they attempt to improve economic infrastructure to EU standards.
