Want to be less stressed? Work in Ireland.

Recent research released by HSBC says that over half of expats who moved to Ireland for work report feeling less stressed since moving here.

Is it wellbeing at work, or is it the quality of life in Ireland? Whichever, when it comes to mental wellbeing over half (51 per cent) of those surveyed in Ireland reporting that they feel less stressed and angry since moving to Ireland, 16 percentage points higher than the global average.

So says new research carried out by HSBC, which has revealed that Ireland is experienced as a welcoming, secure destination by those who have moved here to work. The majority of those living here also reported increased quality of life, and noted a cleaner environment when compared with their home country.

As a destination for a nomadic global workforce, Ireland’s offering to those looking for opportunities has a high appeal. However, while most respondents reported increased disposable income since moving to Ireland, those that did not blamed the country’s higher cost of living.

• HSBC research shows 63 per cent of those who relocate to Ireland reported increased quality of life since moving here
• Almost three in four (73 per cent) feel welcome in Ireland while over half (51 per cent) have seen their mental wellbeing improve 
• One in five have seen their income double since moving to Ireland

Twenty-four per cent of those surveyed claimed to have less disposable income while working in Ireland with 62 per cent of this cohort blaming a higher cost of living in Ireland.

Despite this, the majority (51 per cent) stated that they had more disposable income in Ireland, with over four fifths attributing this to increased earnings. In fact, more than one in five have seen their income double or more since relocating to Ireland.

Speaking about the findings, Alan Duffy, CEO, HSBC Ireland said:

The research clearly demonstrates that the drivers for moving and staying in Ireland are not just financial, but that people are increasingly prioritising their wellbeing and quality of life when considering their next career move. It is very encouraging to see how well Ireland is performing on the global stage in terms of providing both social and career progression opportunities. International professionals are a vital asset to the multinational companies we work with and these results confirm that Ireland is found to be an attractive and, most importantly, a welcoming destination.”