DONEGAL has ranked as one of Ireland’s most family-friendly counties in a new study.
The study by home insurance comparison site Quote Devil analysed key metrics to reveal Ireland’s most family-friendly counties. They include education, housing affordability, safety, green spaces, and access to local amenities.
All play a major role in shaping childhood experiences and family wellbeing.
Mayo ranks as the most family-friendly county in Ireland, offering families a balance of safety, schooling and lifestyle.
The county’s relatively low crime rate of 297 incidents per 10,000 residents makes it a relatively reassuring choice for parents, while 151 primary schools and 26 post-primary schools provide fair educational access across the region.
Donegal takes the second spot and stands out as the second-most affordable in the top ten, with a median house price of €165,000, making it particularly attractive for growing families.
It also has the highest number of primary schools among the leaders at 171, improving access to local education, and offers 5.7 parks per 10,000 residents, supporting outdoor family life.
Donegal was followed by Kerry, which rounds out the top three.
Meanwhile, Kildare ranks as the county facing the biggest challenge when it comes to family living, driven mainly by housing pressures, crime rate and limited access to green space.
With a median house price of €415,000, affordability remains a major barrier for many households. Outdoor amenities are also relatively scarce, with only 0.8 parks per 10,000 residents, noticeably lower than in other counties.
The county’s reported crime rate of 510.5 per 10,000 is higher than in several other areas, contributing to its spot in first place