The Irish are well-known for spreading their wings and venturing to new lands to start a new life. Here are the top ten countries with the most Irish expats.
No matter where you travel, you are sure to meet some Irish people (and pubs) along the way. For such a small island, it has done quite the job of spreading its people far and wide.
From Europe to Asia, North America to Australia, no continent has been left untouched by Irish influence.
Keen explorers, the Irish are known for spreading their wings to travel far and wide. According to research, around 70 million people globally claim Irish heritage.
Whether you’re an Irish native looking to move somewhere new or are just wondering what places appeal most to the Irish, read on to discover the top ten countries with the most Irish expats.
10. Poland – a thriving Irish community
Kicking off our list of countries with the most Irish expats is, perhaps surprisingly, Poland.
This central European country offers plenty of opportunity and a lower cost of living compared to what is available in Ireland, attracting many expats from the Emerald Isle.
According to statistics from 2016, there were almost 7,600 Irish people living in Poland.
9. New Zealand – the other side of the planet
When it comes to emigration, the Irish have a disposition for moving as far away as possible. With that, it comes as no surprise that New Zealand sees such a huge population of Irish expats.
With plenty of cultural similarities, including language, climate, landscape, and bars and casinos, New Zealand is a popular option for Irish expats.
Want to test the luck of the Irish? New Zealand is a great spot, as it’s even home to the best casino for a high roller.
There are six casinos operating throughout New Zealand today. The first New Zealand casino opened back in 1994. Each one offers its customers something different!
8. France – a fashion design capital
Just a short plane ride from the UK and Ireland, France is another popular destination for Irish expats.
Offering a slower European way of life and a great food and wine culture, France is an attractive destination for Irish people.
In 2016, the Irish immigrant population in France sat at almost 10,000, with many people working in industries such as fashion and hospitality.
7. Germany – a popular hub for international business
In 2016, statistics showed that there were around 11,500 Irish expats living in Germany, with most living in Bavaria and the neighbouring region of Baden-Württemberg.
With plenty of international business, mostly conducted in English, Germany is an attractive destination for ambitious Irish folk looking to start a new life in Europe.
6. South Africa – a popular destination for Irish expats
A largely English-speaking country, South Africa is another hugely popular destination among Irish expats. In 2016, statistics showed that there were around 13,000 Irish people living and working there.
Popular industries in South Africa among Irish folk include mining, missionary work, and medicine.
5. Spain – one of the countries with the most Irish expats
It’s no secret that the Irish are huge fans of a Spanish holiday, with many families visiting the coastal regions and the Spanish islands every summer.
With a sunny climate and a relaxed way of life, Spain is a popular destination for Irish retirees looking to enjoy their later years.
Thanks to this, alongside booming industry and high-quality education in places like Barcelona, there were just under 15,000 Irish expats living in Spain in 2016.
4. Canada – plenty of Irish influence in Toronto
Just missing out on a top three spot, Canada is another prominent destination among Irish expats. In 2016, there were around 33,000 Irish immigrants living across the country.
With a similar culture and a largely English-speaking population, Canada is a popular destination for Irish people looking to move abroad. A business hub, Toronto remains one of the most popular cities for Irish people working abroad.
3. Australia – 50% Australian, 50% Irish
Warm weather, beaches, and great food and drinks. What is there not to love about Australia?
The people of Ireland sure have fallen in love with the land down under, with over 100,000 Irish emigrants living across Australia in 2016. The most popular destinations include Sydney, Melbourne, and Perth.
2. United States – plenty of Irish along the east coast
Just missing out on the top spot, the United States is another popular destination for Irish expats. Shocker… not! In 2016, there were around 133,000 Irish expats living in towns and cities across the US.
Popular destinations include New York City, Philadelphia, and Boston.
1. The United Kingdom – moving next door
Topping our list of countries with the most Irish expats is The United Kingdom, including England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
Perhaps the most familiar and accessible destination for Irish people looking to move abroad, the UK had over half a million Irish emigrants in 2016.
Plus, it comes with the added benefit of not being too far away from home so you can easily visit family and friends when you’re feeling homesick.
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