Amsterdam has the deeper international school market with the DAIS option giving low-fee access. Dublin has fewer dedicated international schools but a strong Irish private school sector that absorbs expat families. Both deliver IB and British curriculum options.
Schools
Amsterdam has the deeper international school market with the DAIS option giving low-fee access. Dublin has fewer dedicated international schools but a strong Irish private school sector that absorbs expat families. Both deliver IB and British curriculum options.
Housing
Dublin has been materially more expensive than Amsterdam since 2020. Amsterdam rentals are tight but lower priced. Dublin housing supply is the structural friction point.
Tax
The Netherlands 30% ruling (now tightened since 2024) still gives foreign-earned employees a meaningful tax advantage. Ireland's SARP relief delivers a comparable but narrower benefit. Both are favourable; the specific maths depends on family income.
Climate and lifestyle
Amsterdam is colder and wetter on average; Dublin is similar. Amsterdam offers a more compact city centre and stronger public transport. Dublin offers easier access to coastal Ireland and the UK.
The decision
Amsterdam works better for families wanting deep international school choice and the DAIS option. Dublin works better for families with Irish or UK ties, easier weekend access to the UK, and a less dense urban experience.