Robert Besser
28 Mar 2025

DUBLIN, Ireland: A new survey from the Central Statistics Office reveals that most 25-year-olds in Ireland are still living at home, primarily due to financial reasons, and are facing challenges related to housing, income inequality, and mental health.

According to the CSO's Growing Up in Ireland survey, 69.9 percent of 25-year-olds reported living in the family home. Of those, 62.4 percent reported staying primarily due to financial pressures. In the Mid-East region—which includes Kildare, Louth, Meath and Wicklow—the figure rises to 82.4 percent.

Among those in employment, 69.5 percent were still living with their parents. For those who had moved out, 71.7 percent remained in the same region where they had grown up.

Only 3.8 percent of survey respondents owned their own homes. Since the research was completed, one in eight 25-year-olds has emigrated.

The findings also shed light on income levels and gender disparities. While 85 percent of 25-year-olds were in regular employment, the median weekly income was 558 euros. Men reported earning an average of 589 euros per week, compared to 525 euros for women. A third-level qualification appeared to make a significant difference, with degree holders earning 613 euros compared to 487 euros for those without a qualification. The gender gap was wider for women: those without a degree earned 154 euros less than those with one, compared to 79 euros for men.

Poverty was cited by 94.2 percent of participants as a significant social concern, second only to housing. Financial strain was evident in daily life—24.5 percent of women and 14.5 percent of men reported skipping meals due to financial problems.

Saving habits varied by income: 76.9 percent of men and 69.6 percent of women reported saving regularly, but this increased to 86.5 percent among the top earners and decreased to 66.7 percent among those in the bottom 20 percent. Pension contributions were reported by 44.3 percent of participants.

In terms of personal life, 58.5 percent reported being in a romantic relationship, 12.1 percent were married or engaged, and 28.4 percent of those in relationships were living with their partner. Just 5.6 percent had children.

While 89.1 percent rated their health as good to excellent, 25 percent had been diagnosed with anxiety or depression. Hazardous drinking was reported by 39 percent, and 21.4 percent had tried cocaine in the past year. More men (67.9 percent) than women (49.2 percent) reported recent vigorous physical activity.