Ireland workforce trends show youth emigration concerns and rising older worker employment

New research commissioned by the National Youth Council of Ireland and conducted by Red C reveals that approximately 70% of young adults under the age of 25 in the Republic of Ireland are considering emigrating. The survey indicates that 71% of respondents believe their quality of life would improve if they moved abroad.

Key drivers for this trend include the housing crisis, rising living costs, and difficulties in securing stable, well-paid employment. Specifically, 89% of those surveyed believe the housing crisis disproportionately affects young people, while 90% report that finding secure work is becoming more difficult.

In a contrasting demographic shift, Central Statistics Office figures show an increasing number of older workers in Ireland are remaining in employment beyond traditional retirement age. The number of men aged over 65 in the workforce rose from 26,000 in 2001 to 89,000 in the second quarter of 2026, while the number of women in this age group increased from 7,200 to 43,600 over the same period. Motivations for older workers staying employed include financial necessity, social connection, and maintaining physical health.