Mayo top destination for remote work relocation

Since the start of Covid-19 an increasing number of people who work remotely are seeking relocation. They welcome the flexibility offered by remote work, according to a new report released by the Western Development Commission.

The report that draws on a survey of more than 5,000 remote workers, concludes that Mayo is a top destination for relocation with 5.6 percent of people who have already relocated deciding to move to Mayo, making this county the fourth-highest net receiver. Other popular counties include Galway, Cork, Kildare and Donegal.

The data was taken from the 2023 National Remote Work Survey undertaken together with the University of Galway. Looking at counties from which remote workers relocated, the picture across Ireland is very clear: 56 percent of those relocated from Dublin.

In summary, the report highlights how remote work is not just changing where people work but also where they choose to live. The in-depth analysis also reveals an interesting pattern in the profile of those choosing to relocate, with the majority of those moving before they have families, indicating the potential of population generation in areas they relocate to.

Deirdre Forst, a policy analyst at the Western Development Commission and author of the report states: “What was initially a policy tool for regional development has evolved into a significant driver behind relocation patterns. Motivation patterns for relocation are likely to include improved quality of life, return to hometown roots and housing affordability.”

Allan Mulrooney, CEO of the Western Development Commission explained: “The West of Ireland is uniquely positioned to harness the opportunities presented by this new era of flexible work and welcomes all those who have relocated or are thinking of relocating here in the future.”