REVEALED: Kilkenny in top 20 best towns for work-life balance

New research by Switcher.ie has revealed the best Irish towns and cities for work-life balance with Kilkenny named in the top 20.

The study is based on data like access to local amenities like primary schools, major supermarkets and leisure centres, services like broadband speed and mobile coverage, proximity to green spaces and transport routes, plus house prices and crime rates. 

New legislation which gives employees the right to request remote work carer's leave and other flexible arrangements is expected by the end of the year. With 32% working from home at least one day a week during 2022, Ireland’s towns and local economies could also enjoy the benefits of an increasingly flexible workforce. 

Theme revealed for this year's Kilkenny St Patrick's Day parade!

Commercial Director of Switcher.ie,  Eoin Clarke says: 

“Once the Code of Practice is in place to support the Work-Life Balance Act 2023, many employees will have the right to request remote and flexible working arrangements. It means that hard-working Irish residents, many with families or carer responsibilities, should benefit from a better quality of life and a financial boost. 

Property price is often a crucial factor when housebuying, but broadband and mobile coverage, easy access to local amenities and plentiful green spaces can make all the difference when juggling family commitments, home life and work. 

The good news is all the top towns in our study have lots to offer. Whether working remotely or commuting, there's a good choice of affordable, well-served towns to raise a family or simply enjoy life.

So, if you're planning to buy your first home or hunting for your next, don't just consider affordability - choose somewhere that makes you happy and strikes the perfect work-life balance, too."