Balbriggan is a vibrant coastal town in north County Dublin, known for its beautiful sandy beach, bustling harbour, and historic sites like the Martello Tower and Bremore Castle, giving it a real seaside charm with a mix of traditional Irish character and modern energy. It's a welcoming spot for families and commuters, with a diverse community drawn to its proximity to Dublin— just 30 minutes by train— and ongoing rejuvenation efforts making the town centre more pedestrian-friendly and lively. You'll find locals enjoying the coastal walks, markets, and community events, creating that friendly, up-and-coming feel.
Overview
CSO Census 2022 · Small Area Population Statistics
Population
24,322
Census 2022
Owner occupied
58.3%
National: 65.9%
Crime rate per 1,000
63.1
National avg: 54.1
With a population of 24,322, Balbriggan is a growing town that's slightly more rental-heavy at 22% compared to the national 18%, and owner-occupancy at 58.3% is a bit below the 65.9% average, suggesting a dynamic mix of long-term families and newcomers. The crime rate of 63.1 per 1,000 is modestly higher than the national 54.1, but it's a safe, community-focused place where most folks know their neighbours.
Age Profile
CSO Census 2022 · Table 1 population by age
Age distribution
Balbriggan vs national average (%)
Balbriggan
National
Balbriggan's youthful vibe shines through with 25.4% under 14—well above the national 19.7%—and just 7.8% over 65 versus 15.1% nationally, painting a picture of a lively, family-oriented community full of kids' laughter and school runs.
Under 14
25.4%
National: 19.7%
65 and over
7.8%
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
Balbriggan vs National (%)
Balbriggan
National
vs national average
At work
Retired
Student
Looking after home/family
The area buzzes with activity as 57.5% are at work—slightly above the national 56.1%—and with 9.6% working from home, it feels like a practical spot for modern professionals balancing family and jobs.
Third Level Education
CSO Census 2022 · Table 10 highest level of education completed
vs national average
Third level education
At 34.5% with third-level education—just shy of the 39.2% national average—this suggests a community of capable, ambitious folks pursuing solid careers without the ultra-elite polish.
Crime & Safety
CSO Recorded Crime Statistics · Garda subdistrict level · 2024
Crime rate per 1,000
63.1
National avg: 54.1
vs national average
Near the national average
2024 recorded crime
3-year avg rate
63.6
Per 1,000 · 2022–2024
Crime & safety: The Balbriggan Garda subdistrict records a crime rate of 63.1 per 1,000, broadly in line with the national average of 54.06.
Crime rate is based on recorded incidents in the Balbriggan Garda subdistrict (population 32,504), which covers Balbriggan and surrounding areas. Data: CSO Recorded Crime Statistics.
Commuting
CSO Census 2022 · Table 11 departure times & travel mode
Departure time for work / school
Balbriggan vs National (%)
Balbriggan
National
How people travel to work
Balbriggan vs National (%)
Balbriggan
National
vs national average
Work from home
Public transport
Car / van
Most residents—60%—drive to work, close to the national norm, but 14.9% use public transport, double the 7.9% average, thanks to the handy DART station connecting to Dublin. It's not overly car-dependent, with coastal paths and cycleways adding nice options for local trips.
Nationality & Ethnicity
CSO Census 2022 · Table 2 nationality and ethnicity
Citizenship / nationality
Balbriggan vs National (%)
Balbriggan
National
Ethnicity
Balbriggan vs National (%)
Balbriggan
National
vs national average
Irish citizen
White Irish ethnicity
Religion
CSO Census 2022 · Table 4 religion
Religion
Balbriggan vs National (%)
Balbriggan
National
vs national average
Catholic
No religion
Irish Language
CSO Census 2022 · Table 3 Irish speakers aged 3 and over
Can speak Irish
32.9%
National: 39.83%
Speak Irish daily outside school
1.0%
National: 4.11%
vs national average
Can speak Irish
Daily outside school
The name 'Balbriggan' comes from the Irish 'Baile Brigín,' meaning 'town of Brigid' or 'little town,' likely referencing a historical settlement tied to St. Brigid or a small early Christian site. It hints at the area's ancient roots along the coast, where small Viking and medieval communities once thrived by the sea, shaping its enduring fishing village heritage.
Housing & Tenure
CSO Census 2022 · Table 6 type of occupancy and accommodation
Owner occupied
58.3%
National: 65.9%
Private renting
22.0%
National: 18.0%
Social housing
15.8%
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
Homes here lean towards family houses with 18.9% in flats or apartments above the 13% national figure, and while ownership is strong at 58.3%, the higher 22% renting appeals to flexible movers; 15.7% have no car, a tad above average.
Health
CSO Census 2022 · Table 12 self-reported general health
Good or very good health
83.2%
National: 82.9%
Fair health
9.0%
National: 8.6%
Bad or very bad health
2.2%
National: 1.7%
Smokers
14.4%
National: 17.03%
Self-reported health
Balbriggan vs National (%)
Balbriggan
National
With 83.2% reporting good or very good health—edging out the 82.9% national average—Balbriggan's active coastal lifestyle keeps people feeling great and full of energy.