Lucan is a vibrant, growing suburb west of Dublin along the River Liffey, blending historic charm with modern family living—think quaint village pubs, scenic riverside walks through ancient oak groves, and easy access to the M50 for city commutes. It's known for its community spirit, excellent schools, and spots like Lucan Demesne with its playgrounds and trails, attracting young professionals and families who love the mix of convenience and green spaces. Residents here enjoy a quiet yet connected lifestyle, with shopping at nearby centres and quick hops to Dublin's buzz.
Overview
CSO Census 2022 · Small Area Population Statistics
Population
50,439
Census 2022
Owner occupied
67.3%
National: 65.9%
Crime rate per 1,000
43.5
National avg: 54.1
With a population of over 50,000, Lucan is a bustling suburban hub that's slightly above average in home ownership at 67.3%, suggesting stability and roots for many families, while a lower crime rate of 43.5 per 1,000 beats the national average, making it a reassuringly safe spot to settle down.
Age Profile
CSO Census 2022 · Table 1 population by age
Age distribution
Lucan vs national average (%)
Lucan
National
Lucan's youthful vibe shines through with 24% under 14—well above the national 19.7%—and just 5.7% over 65, painting a picture of an energetic community full of kids, active parents, and fewer retirees.
Under 14
24.0%
National: 19.7%
65 and over
5.7%
National: 15.1%
Male / Female
49.7% / 50.3%
National: 49.4% / 50.6%
Economic Status
CSO Census 2022 · Table 8 principal economic status (aged 15+)
Economic status
Lucan vs National (%)
Lucan
National
vs national average
At work
Retired
Student
Looking after home/family
This is a hardworking area where 65.5% are employed (higher than the national 56.1%), with a notable 11.1% working from home and low retirement at 6.7%, reflecting a dynamic workforce of commuters and remote professionals fueling local growth.
Third Level Education
CSO Census 2022 · Table 10 highest level of education completed
vs national average
Third level education
Boasting 49.6% with third-level education—well ahead of the national 39.2%—Lucan draws ambitious families who value schooling and career opportunities, contributing to its professional, upwardly mobile feel.
Crime & Safety
CSO Recorded Crime Statistics · Garda subdistrict level · 2024
Crime rate per 1,000
43.5
National avg: 54.1
vs national average
20% below national average
2024 recorded crime
3-year avg rate
48.7
Per 1,000 · 2022–2024
Crime & safety: The Lucan Garda subdistrict records a crime rate of 43.5 per 1,000, broadly in line with the national average of 54.06.
Crime rate is based on recorded incidents in the Lucan Garda subdistrict (population 47,794), which covers Lucan and surrounding areas. Data: CSO Recorded Crime Statistics.
Commuting
CSO Census 2022 · Table 11 departure times & travel mode
Departure time for work / school
Lucan vs National (%)
Lucan
National
How people travel to work
Lucan vs National (%)
Lucan
National
vs national average
Work from home
Public transport
Car / van
Most folks drive to work at 60.7%, but strong public transport use at 16.7% (double the national average) means buses to Dublin are handy right from the village, making it less car-dependent than many suburbs while still highway-friendly via the M50. Low no-car households at 6.5% keep things mobile.
Nationality & Ethnicity
CSO Census 2022 · Table 2 nationality and ethnicity
Citizenship / nationality
Lucan vs National (%)
Lucan
National
Ethnicity
Lucan vs National (%)
Lucan
National
vs national average
Irish citizen
White Irish ethnicity
Religion
CSO Census 2022 · Table 4 religion
Religion
Lucan vs National (%)
Lucan
National
vs national average
Catholic
No religion
Irish Language
CSO Census 2022 · Table 3 Irish speakers aged 3 and over
Can speak Irish
35.0%
National: 39.83%
Speak Irish daily outside school
1.4%
National: 4.11%
vs national average
Can speak Irish
Daily outside school
'Lucan' derives from the Irish 'Luimneach' linked to the River Liffey, but more precisely from 'Leamhcán,' meaning 'place of the elms,' nodding to the area's ancient tree-lined landscapes and riverside groves that still define its peaceful, green character today. This etymology highlights Lucan's deep roots in Ireland's natural heritage, with the Liffey weaving through its history as a serene retreat just outside Dublin.
Housing & Tenure
CSO Census 2022 · Table 6 type of occupancy and accommodation
Owner occupied
67.3%
National: 65.9%
Private renting
21.4%
National: 18.0%
Social housing
6.6%
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
Owner-occupiers dominate at 67.3% with a mix of family homes and 15.5% flats or apartments (slightly above average), alongside 21.4% renters, offering options from established semis to newer builds for buyers and tenants alike.
Health
CSO Census 2022 · Table 12 self-reported general health
Good or very good health
86.7%
National: 82.9%
Fair health
6.0%
National: 8.6%
Bad or very bad health
1.2%
National: 1.7%
Smokers
10.3%
National: 17.03%
Self-reported health
Lucan vs National (%)
Lucan
National
Impressive 86.7% report good or very good health (above the 82.9% national average), paired with low no-car rates and active lifestyles along the Liffey trails, suggesting a fit, outdoorsy community thriving in fresh air and convenience.