Place profile · Carlow, Co. Carlow

Is Carlow a good place to live?

Carlow is on the up.

Below average today — but the fundamentals are turning, faster than the national trend.

↓ Unemployment fell 17% → 12%, in line with nationally↑ Third-level education up 8 points — faster than nationally↑ Prices up 23.4%

Where Carlow sits.

Co. Carlow · 64 bus stops · 1 rail.

58 min
drive to Waterford

Ranked #1 in Carlow for quality of life.

62/100
#66 nationally
Affordability96
Family & community70
Environment69
Transport & services64
Safety62
Schools & education42
Local economy32

Homes sell for €275,000.

€200,000€327,250
↑ +23.4%11.3% new-build976 sales / 2yr
€€

Affordable for its access.

96/100
Affordability score

Good for families.

70/100
Family & community score

Clean, green surrounds.

69/100
Environment score

The community here.

26,162 people.

Who lives here.

35%
third-level
29%
professional
13.2%
unemployment
Affluence: below average

A mix of owners and renters.

53.9% own26% rent12.9% social

For sale in Carlow right now.

Get a full report on any Carlow property →

The honest trade-offs.

↓ Schools & education 42/100↓ Local economy 32/100

Compare with nearby towns.

Carlow vs TullowCarlow vs RathvillyCarlow vs LeighlinbridgeCarlow vs HacketstownCarlow vs BorrisCarlow vs BallonIs Tullow a good place to live?Is Rathvilly a good place to live?Is Leighlinbridge a good place to live?Is Hacketstown a good place to live?

Sale prices from the Property Price Register (rolling 24 months). Quality of Life averages seven equal-weighted dimensions from 40+ metrics across 13 public datasets (CSO census + SAPS, Garda crime, SEAI, EPA, DES schools, GTFS). Population is CSO Census 2022; the “on the up” trajectory compares 2016→2022. Figures refresh daily · an area assessment, not advice on a specific property. Updated 2026.