Killiney is an affluent coastal suburb on Dublin's southside, stretching along Dublin Bay with stunning elevated views of the coastline, mountains and islands. Known for its beautiful beaches, walking trails like the iconic Killiney Hill Park, and exclusive homes, it has attracted notable residents including members of U2, Enya and Van Morrison. The area blends seaside charm with village character, offering independent shops, boutiques, restaurants and easy access to nearby Dalkey's vibrant food and cultural scene.
Overview
CSO Census 2022 · Small Area Population Statistics
Population
9,776
Census 2022
Owner occupied
69.9%
National: 65.9%
Crime rate per 1,000
39.1
National avg: 54.1
With a population of 9,776, Killiney is a substantial but intimate community where nearly 70% own their homes — well above the national average — and the crime rate of 39.1 per 1,000 is significantly lower than the national average of 54.1, reflecting a safe and stable neighbourhood. The very low private rental rate of 9.1% compared to the national 18% suggests this is a place where people put down roots and stay.
Age Profile
CSO Census 2022 · Table 1 population by age
Age distribution
Killiney vs national average (%)
Killiney
National
The community skews slightly older than Ireland overall, with nearly one in five residents over 65 and fewer young children, indicating a mature neighbourhood that appeals to established families and retirees seeking a peaceful coastal setting.
Under 14
17.6%
National: 19.7%
65 and over
18.8%
National: 15.1%
Male / Female
47.5% / 52.5%
National: 49.4% / 50.6%
Economic Status
CSO Census 2022 · Table 8 principal economic status (aged 15+)
Economic status
Killiney vs National (%)
Killiney
National
vs national average
At work
Retired
Student
Looking after home/family
While the employment rate is slightly below the national average at 52.7%, the notably high proportion of retirees (19.6%) and those working from home (15.2%) suggest a community of established professionals and those in later life stages, with flexibility to enjoy the area's lifestyle.
Third Level Education
CSO Census 2022 · Table 10 highest level of education completed
vs national average
Third level education
With 47.8% of residents holding third-level education — well above the national average of 39.2% — Killiney is a highly educated community, reflecting its affluent character and appeal to professionals.
Crime & Safety
CSO Recorded Crime Statistics · Garda subdistrict level · 2024
Crime rate per 1,000
39.1
National avg: 54.1
vs national average
28% below national average
2024 recorded crime
3-year avg rate
40.7
Per 1,000 · 2022–2024
Lower than average crime: The Shankill Garda subdistrict, which covers Killiney, records a crime rate of 39.1 per 1,000 — 28% below the national average of 54.06.
Crime rate is based on recorded incidents in the Shankill Garda subdistrict (population 22,235), which covers Killiney and surrounding areas. Data: CSO Recorded Crime Statistics.
Commuting
CSO Census 2022 · Table 11 departure times & travel mode
Departure time for work / school
Killiney vs National (%)
Killiney
National
How people travel to work
Killiney vs National (%)
Killiney
National
vs national average
Work from home
Public transport
Car / van
While just over half of workers drive to work, Killiney benefits from excellent public transport connectivity with DART rail access to Dublin city centre and frequent bus routes, plus it's within 10 minutes of major road networks. This makes it accessible for commuters while maintaining its peaceful, suburban character.
Nationality & Ethnicity
CSO Census 2022 · Table 2 nationality and ethnicity
Citizenship / nationality
Killiney vs National (%)
Killiney
National
Ethnicity
Killiney vs National (%)
Killiney
National
vs national average
Irish citizen
White Irish ethnicity
Religion
CSO Census 2022 · Table 4 religion
Religion
Killiney vs National (%)
Killiney
National
vs national average
Catholic
No religion
Irish Language
CSO Census 2022 · Table 3 Irish speakers aged 3 and over
Can speak Irish
36.9%
National: 39.83%
Speak Irish daily outside school
1.2%
National: 4.11%
vs national average
Can speak Irish
Daily outside school
Killiney's name comes from the Irish 'Cill Iníon Léinín', meaning 'church of the daughters of Léinín', reflecting its origins as an 11th-century religious settlement that shaped the early community. This heritage connects the modern neighbourhood to centuries of Irish history and spiritual significance, even as the area has evolved into an affluent modern suburb.
Housing & Tenure
CSO Census 2022 · Table 6 type of occupancy and accommodation
Owner occupied
69.9%
National: 65.9%
Private renting
9.1%
National: 18.0%
Social housing
18.5%
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
The housing stock is predominantly detached and semi-detached homes, with only 7.4% flats or apartments compared to the national 13%, and owner-occupation dominates at 69.9%, creating a neighbourhood of established homeowners rather than transient renters.
Health
CSO Census 2022 · Table 12 self-reported general health
Good or very good health
87.0%
National: 82.9%
Fair health
8.6%
National: 8.6%
Bad or very bad health
1.7%
National: 1.7%
Smokers
14.5%
National: 17.03%
Self-reported health
Killiney vs National (%)
Killiney
National
With 87% of residents reporting good or very good health — above the national 82.9% — the area's coastal location, abundant green spaces and active outdoor culture appear to support a healthy, active lifestyle.