Phoenix Park is Dublin's vast green lung, a sprawling 707-hectare urban oasis just west of the city centre, famous for its wild fallow deer herds, Dublin Zoo, and landmarks like Áras an Uachtaráin, the President's residence. It's a lively mix of joggers, cyclists, families picnicking amid historic monuments and sports pitches, with a small residential enclave of modern apartments tucked along its edges that feels worlds away from the urban hustle. Residents here cherish the serene, nature-immersed lifestyle right on the doorstep of the capital's biggest playground.
Overview
CSO Census 2022 · Small Area Population Statistics
Population
1,465
Census 2022
Owner occupied
19.6%
National: 65.9%
Crime rate per 1,000
38.5
National avg: 54.1
With a compact population of just 1,465, Phoenix Park is a niche residential spot dominated by renters in high-rise apartments rather than homeowners, suggesting a transient, professional community drawn to its unbeatable location. The low crime rate of 38.5 per 1,000—well below the national average—makes it one of Dublin's safer enclaves, perfect for those seeking peace without isolation.
Age Profile
CSO Census 2022 · Table 1 population by age
Age distribution
Phoenix Park vs national average (%)
Phoenix Park
National
The community skews towards adults with few young children at 6.3% under 14 and a higher-than-average 18.2% over 65, fostering a mature, relaxed vibe ideal for empty-nesters or professionals enjoying the park's tranquil walks and events.
Under 14
6.3%
National: 19.7%
65 and over
18.2%
National: 15.1%
Male / Female
48.7% / 51.3%
National: 49.4% / 50.6%
Economic Status
CSO Census 2022 · Table 8 principal economic status (aged 15+)
Economic status
Phoenix Park vs National (%)
Phoenix Park
National
vs national average
At work
Retired
Student
Looking after home/family
A strong 61.7% are at work, many in professional roles with 15.6% working from home—higher than average—pointing to a flexible, affluent workforce that values the area's green inspiration for remote days.
Third Level Education
CSO Census 2022 · Table 10 highest level of education completed
vs national average
Third level education
Over half (53.9%) hold third-level degrees, far exceeding the national 39.2%, indicating a highly educated, cosmopolitan crowd likely in creative, tech, or diplomatic fields attracted to this prestigious address.
Crime & Safety
CSO Recorded Crime Statistics · Garda subdistrict level · 2024
Crime rate per 1,000
38.5
National avg: 54.1
vs national average
29% below national average
2024 recorded crime
3-year avg rate
37.3
Per 1,000 · 2022–2024
Lower than average crime: The Cabra Garda subdistrict, which covers Phoenix Park, records a crime rate of 38.5 per 1,000 — 29% below the national average of 54.06.
Crime rate is based on recorded incidents in the Cabra Garda subdistrict (population 31,349), which covers Phoenix Park and surrounding areas. Data: CSO Recorded Crime Statistics.
Commuting
CSO Census 2022 · Table 11 departure times & travel mode
Departure time for work / school
Phoenix Park vs National (%)
Phoenix Park
National
How people travel to work
Phoenix Park vs National (%)
Phoenix Park
National
vs national average
Work from home
Public transport
Car / van
Just 20% drive to work compared to 62.4% nationally, with 28% using public transport and 37% carless, showing it's far from car-dependent—excellent bus links like the 99 and bike paths make it a commuter's dream right by the city centre. The park's cycle trails and proximity to Luas stops keep things seamless and eco-friendly.
Nationality & Ethnicity
CSO Census 2022 · Table 2 nationality and ethnicity
Citizenship / nationality
Phoenix Park vs National (%)
Phoenix Park
National
Ethnicity
Phoenix Park vs National (%)
Phoenix Park
National
vs national average
Irish citizen
White Irish ethnicity
Religion
CSO Census 2022 · Table 4 religion
Religion
Phoenix Park vs National (%)
Phoenix Park
National
vs national average
Catholic
No religion
Irish Language
CSO Census 2022 · Table 3 Irish speakers aged 3 and over
Can speak Irish
29.3%
National: 39.83%
Speak Irish daily outside school
0.9%
National: 4.11%
vs national average
Can speak Irish
Daily outside school
Phoenix Park's name comes from the Irish 'Fionn Uisce,' meaning 'clear water,' referencing the park's abundant springs and streams in this once-royal hunting ground from the 1660s. This nod to its watery origins highlights the area's lush, natural landscape amid Dublin's stone cityscape, evoking a timeless connection to Ireland's verdant heritage.
Housing & Tenure
CSO Census 2022 · Table 6 type of occupancy and accommodation
Owner occupied
19.6%
National: 65.9%
Private renting
58.0%
National: 18.0%
Social housing
13.6%
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
Nearly 90% live in flats or apartments with 58% renting privately versus just 19.6% owning—way above national averages—this points to modern, urban-style living in purpose-built blocks perfect for singles or couples who prioritise convenience over traditional homeownership.
Health
CSO Census 2022 · Table 12 self-reported general health
Good or very good health
67.8%
National: 82.9%
Fair health
13.7%
National: 8.6%
Bad or very bad health
3.9%
National: 1.7%
Smokers
15.4%
National: 17.03%
Self-reported health
Phoenix Park vs National (%)
Phoenix Park
National
While 67.8% report good or very good health—below the 82.9% national figure—the active park lifestyle of running, cycling, and deer-spotting likely keeps folks fit and outdoorsy despite the stats.
Other areas in Dublin City
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