Renting a room in Galway: a practical guide (2026)
Renting a room in Galway in 2026: prices, the areas near the University of Galway and ATU, buses, digs, and how to avoid scams.
- Rooms to rent in Galway
- Rooms in Salthill
- Rooms in Knocknacarra
- Student accommodation near the University of Galway
- Student accommodation near ATU Galway
- Digs in Galway
- Daft.ie Rental Report, Q1 2026 (Galway city room rents)
- NTA – Galway routes 410, 411, 412 (Mount Prospect – Eyre Square)
- Transport for Ireland – Galway city bus services
- University of Galway – accommodation
- ATU – accommodation
A tight market
Galway has one of the tightest rental markets in Ireland. In the first quarter of 2026, a double room in a house in Galway city averaged €700 a month without an ensuite and €806 with one, and a single room about €659 (Daft.ie). Room rents across the four cities outside Dublin were up 8.1% on a year.
Start early, keep a saved search running, and be ready to view at short notice.
Areas to look at
Near the University of Galway and University Hospital Galway: Newcastle, the city centre, Shantalla and Rahoon.
West of the city: Salthill, Knocknacarra and Taylors Hill, with direct buses to the university and Eyre Square.
Near ATU Galway (Dublin Road): Renmore, Wellpark, Mervue and Doughiska.
Further out: Oranmore, Claregalway and Moycullen are cheaper but need a bus or car.
Getting around
City Direct routes 410, 411 and 412 run between Mount Prospect in Knocknacarra and Eyre Square, and serve the University of Galway. Route 401 runs from Eyre Square to Salthill. Routes change as Galway's new bus network rolls out, so check Transport for Ireland before you decide.
Digs and student rooms
The University of Galway and ATU have both appealed to homeowners to offer rooms and digs, and ATU says private operators provide all its student accommodation. Digs are often Monday to Friday and can be good value. See our guide to living in digs, and "Licensee or tenant?" for your rights.
Common questions
How much is a room in Galway?
In early 2026, a double room in a house in Galway city averaged €700 a month (€806 with an ensuite) and a single room about €659, according to Daft.ie.
Which areas are best for the University of Galway?
Newcastle, the city centre, Shantalla and Rahoon are closest. Salthill and Knocknacarra are popular and have direct buses to the university.
When should I look for a room in Galway for college?
As early as you can. Most private rooms and digs are advertised from June to September, and they go fast.