The average monthly living cost in Athlone is €1,400.
A Westmeath town has retained its position as Ireland's fifth most affordable student town in 2026.
According to the latest report by switcher.ie the average monthly living cost in Athlone is €1,400 and annual study costs of just over €15,000.
Students in the town saw one of the smallest yearly cost increases nationwide, with overall expenses rising by just €220 compared with 2025.
Lower accommodation, stable transport and gym costs, and a slight drop in grocery prices helped Athlone remain competitive despite higher entertainment costs.
Letterkenny, Sligo, Dundalk and Waterford ranked ahead of Athlone as the country's four most affordable student locations, while Dublin remained the most expensive.
Amanda Keyes, Deputy President Athlone Campus at TUS Student Union says the demand for Athlone is increasing as people are travelling from far and wide:
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