Ayrfield is a peaceful, family-oriented suburb in Dublin 13, nestled between Coolock and Clontarf with a welcoming community feel shaped by its mix of semi-detached homes and modern apartments. It's known for its proximity to Clarehall Shopping Centre, local schools, sports clubs, and easy access to the M50 and M1, making it ideal for families who appreciate quiet streets yet want city conveniences nearby. Residents are mostly Irish-born families and retirees who value the area's stability and green spaces.
Overview
CSO Census 2022 · Small Area Population Statistics
Population
5,863
Census 2022
Owner occupied
72.0%
National: 65.9%
Crime rate per 1,000
52.5
National avg: 54.1
With a close-knit population of 5,863, Ayrfield punches above its weight as a stable, home-owning community where 72% of homes are owner-occupied—higher than the national average—suggesting strong roots and pride in the area. The crime rate of 52.5 per 1,000 sits comfortably below the national 54.1, painting a picture of a safe, settled neighbourhood perfect for long-term living.
Age Profile
CSO Census 2022 · Table 1 population by age
Age distribution
Ayrfield vs national average (%)
Ayrfield
National
Ayrfield's age profile shows a mature community with 20.1% over 65 (above the national 15.1%) and fewer young children at 16.4% under 14, fostering a calm, supportive vibe ideal for families and retirees alike.
Under 14
16.4%
National: 19.7%
65 and over
20.1%
National: 15.1%
Male / Female
48.3% / 51.7%
National: 49.4% / 50.6%
Economic Status
CSO Census 2022 · Table 8 principal economic status (aged 15+)
Economic status
Ayrfield vs National (%)
Ayrfield
National
vs national average
At work
Retired
Student
Looking after home/family
The area has a solid working-class economic character, with 52.9% at work, a higher 19.3% retired than average, and 8.5% working from home, reflecting steady local employment balanced by comfortable retirements.
Third Level Education
CSO Census 2022 · Table 10 highest level of education completed
vs national average
Third level education
Third-level education stands at 25.9%, below the national 39.2%, suggesting a practical, community-focused population with strong access to nearby primary and secondary schools rather than a highly academic profile.
Crime & Safety
CSO Recorded Crime Statistics · Garda subdistrict level · 2024
Crime rate per 1,000
52.5
National avg: 54.1
vs national average
Near the national average
2024 recorded crime
3-year avg rate
50.7
Per 1,000 · 2022–2024
Crime & safety: The Coolock Garda subdistrict records a crime rate of 52.5 per 1,000, broadly in line with the national average of 54.06.
Crime rate is based on recorded incidents in the Coolock Garda subdistrict (population 69,268), which covers Ayrfield and surrounding areas. Data: CSO Recorded Crime Statistics.
Commuting
CSO Census 2022 · Table 11 departure times & travel mode
Departure time for work / school
Ayrfield vs National (%)
Ayrfield
National
How people travel to work
Ayrfield vs National (%)
Ayrfield
National
vs national average
Work from home
Public transport
Car / van
While 53.6% drive to work, Ayrfield shines with 19.6% using public transport—more than double the national 7.9%—thanks to frequent bus stops linking to the city centre, plus quick M50 access; it's not overly car-dependent with 17.7% carless households. This mix suits commuters who like options.
Nationality & Ethnicity
CSO Census 2022 · Table 2 nationality and ethnicity
Citizenship / nationality
Ayrfield vs National (%)
Ayrfield
National
Ethnicity
Ayrfield vs National (%)
Ayrfield
National
vs national average
Irish citizen
White Irish ethnicity
Religion
CSO Census 2022 · Table 4 religion
Religion
Ayrfield vs National (%)
Ayrfield
National
vs national average
Catholic
No religion
Irish Language
CSO Census 2022 · Table 3 Irish speakers aged 3 and over
Can speak Irish
30.2%
National: 39.83%
Speak Irish daily outside school
1.1%
National: 4.11%
vs national average
Can speak Irish
Daily outside school
The name 'Ayrfield' derives from the Irish 'Achadh Uí Argáin,' meaning 'field of Ó hArgáin,' referencing an ancient family or landowner, which hints at Ayrfield's roots as open farmland before suburban development transformed the north Dublin landscape. This Gaelic origin underscores its historical ties to Ireland's rural past amid the area's modern growth.
Housing & Tenure
CSO Census 2022 · Table 6 type of occupancy and accommodation
Owner occupied
72.0%
National: 65.9%
Private renting
11.1%
National: 18.0%
Social housing
12.0%
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
Dominantly owner-occupied at 72% with just 11.1% private renting, the housing mixes traditional family homes with 28.1% flats or apartments—well above the national 13%—offering sought-after developments like Orchard Way with parking and amenities.
Health
CSO Census 2022 · Table 12 self-reported general health
Good or very good health
79.8%
National: 82.9%
Fair health
11.7%
National: 8.6%
Bad or very bad health
2.1%
National: 1.7%
Smokers
16.0%
National: 17.03%
Self-reported health
Ayrfield vs National (%)
Ayrfield
National
Good or very good health affects 79.8% of residents, slightly under the national 82.9%, indicating a generally healthy, active community likely boosted by local sports facilities and family lifestyles.
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