Irish Offers £70,000 to Start a New Life on a Remote Island

# The Big Offer on the Table

Imagine packing up your city life and moving to a serene island off the coast of Ireland. Sounds like a dream, right? As part of its Our Living Islands initiative, the Irish government is offering **grants up to €84,000 (around £70,000)** to people willing to commit to renovating vacant homes and living long-term on certain remote islands. ([The Independent][1]) The scheme’s aim is clear: revitalise small island communities, boost game-changing population growth and protect Ireland’s cultural and coastal heritage.

# Who It’s For — And What You Must Do

The offer is not as simple as “free money to move to an island.” Applicants must purchase or already own a **vacant or derelict home**, on one of the eligible offshore islands that are cut off from the mainland (no bridge or causeway) and must **live in the property as their primary residence**. ([The Irish Times][2]) For a derelict property, the grant can be up to €84,000 — with smaller amounts for less extreme cases. ([The Irish Times][3]) The renovated home cannot be used simply as a holiday rental — you must make it your full-time home and commit for years. ([The Independent][1])

# Why Ireland Is Doing This

Many of Ireland’s beautiful offshore islands face serious population decline. Young people move to cities, local infrastructure is stretched and properties fall into disuse. The government launched the Living Islands policy to reverse the trend and help communities stay strong and vibrant. ([The Irish Times][4]) By directing grants toward housing and renovation, the plan links finance to long-term living and keeps the islands active.

# Life on the Island: Realities and Rewards

Moving to an Irish island is more than water views and fresh air. There are incredible rewards — stunning nature, tight-knit communities, slower pace of life, and a chance to live somewhere unique. As one article puts it: “If you are tired of urban living, if you can work remotely or if you want to be part of something with a bigger purpose then this could be a head-turning sum.” ([The Irish Times][2])

But there are trade-offs. Island infrastructure may be limited — shops, transport, health services might be far away or less frequent. Renovation costs and logistics (bringing materials over by ferry) can add up. Some locals say the grant is **helpful but not enough** given the extra costs. ([Sky News][5])

# A Closer Look: Examples of Eligible Islands

Some of the 23-plus qualifying islands are located off counties Donegal, Cork, Galway, Mayo and Sligo. ([The Irish Times][4]) Places like Arranmore Island, Bere Island and Clare Island have made headlines for being part of the scheme. These islands often combine wonders of nature — rugged coasts, small populations, strong culture — with a real chance for someone to start anew.

# Things to Check Before Taking the Leap

* Make sure the property is **eligible**: vacant for at least 2 years, built before a certain date, and zoned correctly. ([The Irish Times][2])

* Understand you’ll likely need to **front the renovation costs** and the grant may come after conclusion of works. ([The Irish Times][2])

* Be prepared for **remote living**: it’s wonderful, but amenities may be limited, and you’ll need to adapt.

* Know the **rules around residency, rental, and duration**: the grant expects the property to be your full-time home.

# Who’s Thinking of Making the Move?

Globally, there has been **significant interest**: media reports show enquiries from across the US, India, Brazil and beyond. ([Sky News][5]) Yet, actual uptake has been modest: by early 2025 only under 30 applications had been recorded for the island grants. ([The Irish Times][4]) That suggests the reality is tougher than the headlines.

# Why It Matters

This scheme illustrates a broader trend: as urbanisation peaks and depopulation hits rural and island areas, governments are using creative tools to reshape where people live. For Ireland, it’s not just about getting residents—it’s about sustaining heritage, keeping vibrant communities alive and connecting remote places to the modern world.

At the same time, for individuals, it’s a chance to transform life: escape the constant rush, own a unique home in nature, contribute to a community. For some, it can be more than a financial deal—it can be a life change.

# Final Thoughts

If you’ve ever dreamed of a slower pace, sea breeze mornings and a real sense of place, Ireland’s island offer is worth a look. The government isn’t simply handing out money—**it’s giving you a path to make a meaningful shift**. With up to £70,000 in grants, it’s a strong incentive. But it’s not easy. The work, cost and commitment are real.

So if you’re ready for renovation plans, remote living and community involvement, this could be your chance to say “yes” to island life. Just remember: in island time, the rewards are deep—but you’ll need to embrace the change fully.