You might automatically assume that one of Ireland’s bigger, more well-known towns sits at the top of the quality of life rankings in Ireland, but this winner might surprise you.
Work-life balance, transport, economic growth, weather and many more factors are taken into consideration when it comes to outlining which cities and towns around the globe are the best for quality of life.
A study has highlighted one Irish town in particular for its good work-life balance, access to green spaces, transport, housing prices, and more.
Arklow, County Wicklow – best work-life balance in Ireland
According to a study by Switcher.ie, Arklow, County Wicklow, takes the top spot for work life balance in Ireland.
The study discusses how Arklow boasts not just the best work-life balance, though, but also “affordable east coast house prices with strong transport links, good broadband and easy access to beaches and green spaces”.
It outlines that a good work-life balance leads to better health, personal happiness, and better relationships. People in Arklow have less stressors like high housing prices, long commutes, and bad internet.
A study from the same site a couple of years ago highlighted Arklow as one of the best places to live in Ireland.
Contributing factors – why Arklow took the top spot
Switcher describes Arklow as “A delightful commuter town with easy access to Wicklow and Dublin by road and rail.
“It boasts an excellent range of leisure facilities, supermarkets and schools, plus you’ve got sandy beaches, and riverside walks to walk the dog or stretch your legs”.
The study goes on to highlight how Arklow is one of the East Coast’s most affordable towns. It attracts commuters thanks to “its perfect mix of green spaces, local amenities, and proximity to Dublin”.
What to do in Arklow – surrounded by beautiful nature
Arklow is a lovely town with lots to see and do. Surrounded by nature, one of the best ways to enjoy the outdoors is by visiting the long, sandy shoreline at Arklow Beach.
Furthermore, you can explore the town’s proud boat-building heritage with a visit to the Arklow Maritime Museum.
The original purpose of the museum was to celebrate the town’s rich seafaring heritage, described by the late maritime historian John de Courcy Ireland in a letter to the museum as “Ireland’s Most Maritime Town”.
Steeped in history, the town was founded by Vikings in the 9th century. It also stands out in the history books as the location of one of the bloodiest battles of the 1798 rebellion. A statue of Father Michael stands on Main Street in Arklow to commemorate the event.
