Irish city with 'vibrant culture' dubbed 'better' than Miami and Washington
The success of Sally Rooney's Normal People and other literary works may have boosted the city in the rankings Dublin, Ireland, has been ranked as one of the world's best student cities for the second consecutive year by QS Best Student Cities 2024, ranking 32 out of 160 cities. The city's literary connections and its diverse student population and arts scene are cited as reasons for its popularity among international students. The success of Trinity College and its universities have also contributed to this ranking. However, Dublin ranked poorly in affordability, as it is one of Europe's most expensive cities for students. London took the top spot, Melbourne came second and Tokyo came third in the rankings.
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An Irish city has been dubbed better than Miami and Washington for students thanks to its literary connections and "vibrant cultural experience".
Dublin has risen the ranks of the world's best student cities for the second year in a row. The Irish capital jumped five places in the rankings in the prestigious QS Best Student Cities 2024 to rank 32 out of 160 cities.
The notoriety of Trinity College - which shot to fame after becoming part of the setting for the love affair between Paul Mescal and Daisy Edgar Jones' characters in the TV adaption of Sally Rooney's Normal People - alongside the city's diverse student population and buzzing arts scene are credited for its regard among international students.
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Ben Sowter, Senior Vice-president of the QS, told Irish Examiner: “Dublin offers students a vibrant and inclusive cultural experience, with its rich history, lively arts scene, and renowned hospitality.
"Dublin's improvement in the ranking is attributed to its diverse student body and the consistent advancement of its universities across QS’ rankings portfolio, particularly Trinity College Dublin."
QS does not have specific data on the impact of Normal People but on its potential influence on perceptions of Dublin, Sowter went on: “Normal People, based on the book by Sally Rooney, a Trinity College Dublin alumnus, is a prime example of contemporary Irish fiction that resonates globally.
"Significant recent literary works by Irish women, such as Rooney and Claire Keegan, another Trinity alumnus, have gained international acclaim. These successful alumni can enhance a university's performance in rankings, particularly in reputational and outcomes related indicators.
“Similar hypotheses have been drawn about South Korea with the rise of K-Pop, while in the UK, locations have seen major tourism booms following media exposure in hit TV shows like Welcome to Wrexham and Ted Lasso.”
Dublin scored highly in desirability which gauges the safety, pollution levels, and demand, and in student ratings but rated very poorly when it came to affordability as it is one of the most expensive cities in the world for students.
"Dublin has gained the title of one of the most expensive cities in Europe to live," a report spokesperson explained. "Travel, food, and accommodation are expensive. Dublin has gained the reputation of the Silicon Valley of Europe.
"It is estimated that a single person's monthly costs will be US$1,060.68 without rent, but rent for a one-bedroom apartment will set you back US$1,986.87. It's clear to see why Dublin ranked 136th in the world for affordability."
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London took the top spot, Melbourne landed in second place and Tokyo came third in the influential rankings of the world’s most student-friendly cities. Dublin also placed ahead of Barcelona, Brussels, and Rome.
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