Arran Quay is a vibrant, compact riverside neighbourhood in Dublin's north inner city, stretching from the iconic Four Courts along the Liffey to Smithfield, blending historic Georgian charm with modern urban energy. It's known for its lively community feel, scenic riverside walks, cosy cafés, and landmarks like the striking St Paul's Church, once a hub for working-class worshippers. You'll find a mix of young professionals, students, and city dwellers here, drawn to its central location and cultural buzz near markets and artisan studios.
Overview
CSO Census 2022 · Small Area Population Statistics
Population
18,644
Census 2022
Owner occupied
26.0%
National: 65.9%
Crime rate per 1,000
nan
National avg: 54.1
With a population of 18,644, Arran Quay is a bustling urban hub where just 26% of homes are owner-occupied compared to the national 65.9%, and over half are privately rented, pointing to a transient, renter-friendly community of city workers and newcomers. The unavailable crime data leaves some uncertainty, but its central position suggests typical city-centre liveliness without standout issues.
Age Profile
CSO Census 2022 · Table 1 population by age
Age distribution
Arran Quay vs national average (%)
Arran Quay
National
The youthful profile, with only 9.5% under 14 and 7.2% over 65 versus national averages of 19.7% and 15.1%, paints a picture of a dynamic, working-age community full of energy and fewer family or retirement vibes.
Under 14
9.5%
National: 19.7%
65 and over
7.2%
National: 15.1%
Male / Female
51.3% / 48.7%
National: 49.4% / 50.6%
Economic Status
CSO Census 2022 · Table 8 principal economic status (aged 15+)
Economic status
Arran Quay vs National (%)
Arran Quay
National
vs national average
At work
Retired
Student
Looking after home/family
Arran Quay buzzes with economic activity, as 63.4% are at work—higher than the national 56.1%—with a notable 12% working from home, reflecting a professional crowd thriving in this flexible, city-core spot.
Third Level Education
CSO Census 2022 · Table 10 highest level of education completed
vs national average
Third level education
Boasting 47.8% with third-level education above the national 39.2%, this area attracts ambitious, skilled residents who value knowledge and career growth in Dublin's heart.
Crime & Safety
CSO Recorded Crime Statistics · Garda subdistrict level · 2024
Crime rate per 1,000
nan
National avg: 54.1
vs national average
Near the national average
2024 recorded crime
3-year avg rate
nan
Per 1,000 · 2022–2024
Crime & safety: The Bridewell Garda subdistrict records a crime rate of nan per 1,000, broadly in line with the national average of 54.06.
Crime rate is based on recorded incidents in the Bridewell Garda subdistrict (population 45,792), which covers Arran Quay and surrounding areas. Data: CSO Recorded Crime Statistics.
Commuting
CSO Census 2022 · Table 11 departure times & travel mode
Departure time for work / school
Arran Quay vs National (%)
Arran Quay
National
How people travel to work
Arran Quay vs National (%)
Arran Quay
National
vs national average
Work from home
Public transport
Car / van
Far from car-dependent, Arran Quay sees 45.3% with no car—over three times the national 13.4%—and 20.5% using public transport versus 7.9% nationally, making it ideal for those who love walking, cycling, or Luas rides along the quays. Driving to work is low at 12.3% compared to 62.4% nationally, thanks to its unbeatable city access.
Nationality & Ethnicity
CSO Census 2022 · Table 2 nationality and ethnicity
Citizenship / nationality
Arran Quay vs National (%)
Arran Quay
National
Ethnicity
Arran Quay vs National (%)
Arran Quay
National
vs national average
Irish citizen
White Irish ethnicity
Religion
CSO Census 2022 · Table 4 religion
Religion
Arran Quay vs National (%)
Arran Quay
National
vs national average
Catholic
No religion
Irish Language
CSO Census 2022 · Table 3 Irish speakers aged 3 and over
Can speak Irish
21.1%
National: 39.83%
Speak Irish daily outside school
0.8%
National: 4.11%
vs national average
Can speak Irish
Daily outside school
'Arran Quay' draws from Irish 'Cé an Arainn,' meaning 'Quay of the Ridge' or 'Point Quay,' referencing the landscape where the Liffey bends sharply, forming a natural ridge-like promontory. This name echoes its 18th-century roots as a fashionable gentry spot near the Four Courts, evolving from riverside elegance to today's vibrant urban quay.
Housing & Tenure
CSO Census 2022 · Table 6 type of occupancy and accommodation
Owner occupied
26.0%
National: 65.9%
Private renting
52.9%
National: 18.0%
Social housing
11.3%
National: 10.0%
Ownership breakdown
Owned with mortgage
Owned outright
Dwelling type
House/Bungalow
Flat/Apartment
Cars per household
No car
Two or more cars
Renters dominate at 52.9% versus 18% nationally, with 56.8% in flats or apartments far exceeding the 13% average, creating a modern, high-density mix of Georgian conversions and city blocks perfect for urban living.
Health
CSO Census 2022 · Table 12 self-reported general health
Good or very good health
63.4%
National: 82.9%
Fair health
7.3%
National: 8.6%
Bad or very bad health
1.8%
National: 1.7%
Smokers
18.0%
National: 17.03%
Self-reported health
Arran Quay vs National (%)
Arran Quay
National
While 63.4% report good or very good health below the national 82.9%, this likely mirrors the fast-paced city lifestyle, balanced by active commuting and proximity to Liffey walks that keep locals moving.
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