Arklow in Co Wicklow has been ranked as the best town in Ireland for work-life balance, according to new research.
The study by Switcher.ie is based on a range of factors, including access to local amenities such as primary schools, major supermarkets, and leisure centres; broadband and mobile connectivity; house prices and crime rates; and proximity to green spaces and transport routes.
Arklow came out on top of the Work Life Balance Index due to its property prices, local amenities and connectivity for hybrid working, as well as green spaces and scenic coastline.
It was followed in the top five towns/cities by Ballina, Co Mayo, Enniscorthy, Co Wexford, Wicklow town and Cork city.
The property prices used in the research were based on the median house price in October 2025, according to the Residential Property Price Index.
Ballina was found to be the most affordable town to buy a house in in the study.
Galway was ranked the best town/city to enjoy the great outdoors and keep fit.
Dublin, Cork and Kildare town were ranked as the top three for telecoms connectivity.
For transport links, Cork, Galway, Dublin and Sligo came out on top.
"Property prices are often a crucial factor for homebuyers, but broadband and mobile connectivity, easy access to local amenities, and proximity to green spaces can have a huge impact when juggling work with family or other commitments," said Commercial Director of Switcher.ie, Eoin Clarke.
"Switcher's research highlights several towns across Ireland that offer young professionals and working families a mix of affordability, accessibility, a superb quality of life, and excellent broadband and mobile connectivity for remote working," Mr Clarke said.
