Raharney is a charming, tight-knit rural village in Westmeath, just 19km from Mullingar and near the Meath border, known for its hidden treasures like a glorious park by the river, a serene grotto, a Zen garden-style seating area, and the impressive 'The Third Place' community building. With only 174 residents, it feels like a peaceful haven where community spirit shines through immaculately maintained spots like Ashcroft Park and Village Close, recently transformed by locals into vibrant green spaces with play areas, flower beds, and plans for a community orchard. It's a place for those who love quiet countryside walks, proximity to the Royal Canal Greenway for cycling or fishing, and a strong sense of local pride.
Overview
CSO Census 2022 · Small Area Population Statistics
Population
174
Census 2022
Owner occupied
68.2%
National: 65.9%
Crime rate per 1,000
26.5
National avg: 54.1
Raharney's small population of 174 creates an intimate, close-community feel, while the high home ownership rate of 68.2% above the national average suggests stability and roots for families who stay long-term. The very low crime rate of 26.5 per 1,000—half the national figure—means it's one of the safest spots in Ireland, perfect for peaceful living.
Age Profile
CSO Census 2022 · Table 1 population by age
Age distribution
Raharney vs national average (%)
Raharney
National
With fewer young children at 11.5% under 14 and a balanced 13.8% over 65 close to the national average, Raharney has a mature, steady community vibe that's welcoming to families and retirees alike.
Under 14
11.5%
National: 19.7%
65 and over
13.8%
National: 15.1%
Male / Female
47.7% / 52.3%
National: 49.4% / 50.6%
Economic Status
CSO Census 2022 · Table 8 principal economic status (aged 15+)
Economic status
Raharney vs National (%)
Raharney
National
vs national average
At work
Retired
Student
Looking after home/family
Just 36.4% are at work with 12.3% retired and a solid 8.9% working from home, this reflects a laid-back rural economy where flexibility and local ties shape daily life.
Third Level Education
CSO Census 2022 · Table 10 highest level of education completed
vs national average
Third level education
Third-level education at 19.3% is below the national 39.2%, pointing to a practical, hands-on community that's deeply rooted in local traditions rather than urban academic pursuits.
Crime & Safety
CSO Recorded Crime Statistics · Garda subdistrict level · 2024
Crime rate per 1,000
26.5
National avg: 54.1
vs national average
51% below national average
2024 recorded crime
3-year avg rate
33.4
Per 1,000 · 2022–2024
Lower than average crime: The Killucan Garda subdistrict, which covers Raharney, records a crime rate of 26.5 per 1,000 — 51% below the national average of 54.06.
Crime rate is based on recorded incidents in the Killucan Garda subdistrict (population 4,007), which covers Raharney and surrounding areas. Data: CSO Recorded Crime Statistics.
Commuting
CSO Census 2022 · Table 11 departure times & travel mode
Departure time for work / school
Raharney vs National (%)
Raharney
National
How people travel to work
Raharney vs National (%)
Raharney
National
vs national average
Work from home
Public transport
Car / van
An impressive 80.4% drive to work—higher than the national 62.4%—with only 3.6% using public transport and 18.2% without a car, confirming Raharney's car-dependent rural character where the open roads suit independent lifestyles. Its closeness to the Royal Canal Greenway adds lovely options for leisure biking or walking.
Nationality & Ethnicity
CSO Census 2022 · Table 2 nationality and ethnicity
Citizenship / nationality
Raharney vs National (%)
Raharney
National
Ethnicity
Raharney vs National (%)
Raharney
National
vs national average
Irish citizen
White Irish ethnicity
Religion
CSO Census 2022 · Table 4 religion
Religion
Raharney vs National (%)
Raharney
National
vs national average
Catholic
No religion
Irish Language
CSO Census 2022 · Table 3 Irish speakers aged 3 and over
Can speak Irish
26.3%
National: 39.83%
Speak Irish daily outside school
0.6%
National: 4.11%
vs national average
Can speak Irish
Daily outside school
The name Raharney comes from the Irish 'Ráth Arná', meaning 'ringfort of the sloes' or 'fort of the sloe berries', highlighting its ancient history tied to Iron Age ringforts and the wild, berry-rich landscape typical of rural Westmeath. This evokes a deep connection to Ireland's Gaelic past, with the sloe bushes still dotting the hedgerows around the village.
Housing & Tenure
CSO Census 2022 · Table 6 type of occupancy and accommodation
Owner occupied
68.2%
National: 65.9%
Private renting
6.1%
National: 18.0%
Social housing
24.2%
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 68.2% with minimal private renting at 6.1% and no flats or apartments, Raharney is all about sturdy family homes in welcoming estates like Ashcroft Park, fostering that true sense of owning your slice of countryside.
Health
CSO Census 2022 · Table 12 self-reported general health
Good or very good health
81.0%
National: 82.9%
Fair health
13.8%
National: 8.6%
Bad or very bad health
2.3%
National: 1.7%
Smokers
19.5%
National: 17.03%
Self-reported health
Raharney vs National (%)
Raharney
National
Good or very good health at 81.0% is nearly on par with the national 82.9%, suggesting a healthy, active lifestyle boosted by fresh air, community spaces, and outdoor pursuits.