'A growing sense of disillusionment': 60% Irish adults under 25 are considering emigration

Nearly two thirds of Irish adults under the age of 25 are considering emigration in order to seek a better life for themselves abroad according to a new survey.

One in three of those surveyed admitted that they are strongly considering moving on account of the rising cost of living in Ireland. 

The RED C poll was conducted by the National Youth Council of Ireland (NYCI) where 1,004 young people were surveyed between July 31 and August 5 this year. 

A series of financial challenges for young people in the current Irish economy were cited as the predominant reason by those considering emigration to ease fears. 

The survey revealed that 82% of people aged 18-24 feel negatively impacted by rising costs. 

Housing was a major concern for participants also with 84% agreeing that the current housing crisis disproportionately affects them which is a 2% rise from last year's figures. 

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Many of those surveyed are currently attending college and 94% cited rent and accommodation for full-time students as a major financial burden. 

Aside from housing, young people under 25 also highlighted education fees (60%), the cost of groceries and daily essentials (47%) and healthcare (26%) as other financial obstacles which are contributing towards their consideration of emigration.

The poll also revealed that 81% of young people are fearful of their future in this country with over two-thirds of respondents believing they would enjoy a better life abroad. In relation to the new data, the NYCI say the figures "reflect a growing sense of disillusionment and urgency". 

Other age groups were also asked about their opinions on the current living situation and financial concerns for young adults in the country.

The additional figures showed that 70% of participants across all age groups agree that young people are being disproportionately affected by rising costs. 79% of all ages surveyed believe the government isn't doing enough to support young people with these matters and help them through these financial challenges. 

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The NYCI revealed that only 13% of young people believe their needs are being adequately addressed. 

Reflecting on the new figures, director of policy and advocacy at the NYCI, Kathryn Walsh said: "This isn't just about hardship, it's about young people feeling like Ireland is no longer a place where they can build a future, we need budget 2026 to be a turning point."

Walsh continued: "Young people are facing financial pressures across the board. We must stop penalising them for their age. Equalising welfare rates and abolishing sub-minimum wages are not just economic measures, they are statements of fairness." 

The NYCI unveiled the measures they have called for as part of their pre-budget submission to ease the financial pressures on young people and begin to restore hope for their futures. 

These measures include equalising Jobseekers Allowance for under-25s, introducing free public transport for under-25's, permanently reducing third level fees and abolishing apprentice contributions as well as abolishing the sub-minimum wages for young workers. 

Speaking on the measures, NYCI's director of policy and advocacy explained: "The pre-budget submission urges the government to recognise that income adequacy and cost-of-living supports are essential, especially for those furthest from opportunity". 

Walsh concluded with a stark warning stating: "If we fail to act now, we risk losing a generation of talent and resilience to emigration and exclusion. Budget 2026 must be a commitment to their future."