Ballyboghil, or Ballyboughal as it's often known, is a charming, tight-knit rural village in central Fingal, North County Dublin, with a population of just 855, giving it that welcoming, everyone-knows-your-name feel. Steeped in history as the 'Town of the Staff' linked to St. Patrick's sacred relic, the Bachal Isu, it boasts medieval church ruins, a flowing river through its heart, community gardens, a nature reserve, and nearby gems like Hollywood Lakes Golf Club and a local GFC—perfect for families seeking a peaceful yet vibrant spot amid green fields and biodiversity projects.
Overview
CSO Census 2022 · Small Area Population Statistics
Population
855
Census 2022
Owner occupied
71.4%
National: 65.9%
Crime rate per 1,000
21.8
National avg: 54.1
With a small population of 855, Ballyboghil feels like a cozy rural haven rather than a bustling town, boasting a high homeownership rate of 71.4% that speaks to stable, rooted families who stay put. The impressively low crime rate of 21.8 per 1,000—less than half the national average—makes it one of the safest spots around, ideal for peace of mind if you're thinking of settling here.
Age Profile
CSO Census 2022 · Table 1 population by age
Age distribution
Ballyboghil vs national average (%)
Ballyboghil
National
A youthful vibe shines through with 30.2% under 14—way above the national 19.7%—and just 7.6% over 65, painting a picture of a lively community buzzing with young families, school runs, and playground chatter.
Under 14
30.2%
National: 19.7%
65 and over
7.6%
National: 15.1%
Male / Female
48.9% / 51.1%
National: 49.4% / 50.6%
Economic Status
CSO Census 2022 · Table 8 principal economic status (aged 15+)
Economic status
Ballyboghil vs National (%)
Ballyboghil
National
vs national average
At work
Retired
Student
Looking after home/family
Most folks here are gainfully employed at 57.6%, with a notable 17% working from home—higher than average—suggesting a mix of professionals enjoying flexible careers amid this serene setting.
Third Level Education
CSO Census 2022 · Table 10 highest level of education completed
vs national average
Third level education
With 44.2% holding third-level degrees—beating the national 39.2%—Ballyboghil attracts educated families, hinting at a thoughtful, ambitious community invested in opportunities for their kids.
Crime & Safety
CSO Recorded Crime Statistics · Garda subdistrict level · 2024
Crime rate per 1,000
21.8
National avg: 54.1
vs national average
60% below national average
2024 recorded crime
3-year avg rate
21.3
Per 1,000 · 2022–2024
Lower than average crime: The Garristown Garda subdistrict, which covers Ballyboghil, records a crime rate of 21.8 per 1,000 — 60% below the national average of 54.06.
Crime rate is based on recorded incidents in the Garristown Garda subdistrict (population 5,193), which covers Ballyboghil and surrounding areas. Data: CSO Recorded Crime Statistics.
Commuting
CSO Census 2022 · Table 11 departure times & travel mode
Departure time for work / school
Ballyboghil vs National (%)
Ballyboghil
National
How people travel to work
Ballyboghil vs National (%)
Ballyboghil
National
vs national average
Work from home
Public transport
Car / van
This is very much a car-dependent area, with 69% driving to work and only 6.4% using public transport, but the low 4.7% without a car means most households are well-equipped for rural life. A nearby private airfield adds a unique touch for aviation enthusiasts.
Nationality & Ethnicity
CSO Census 2022 · Table 2 nationality and ethnicity
Citizenship / nationality
Ballyboghil vs National (%)
Ballyboghil
National
Ethnicity
Ballyboghil vs National (%)
Ballyboghil
National
vs national average
Irish citizen
White Irish ethnicity
Religion
CSO Census 2022 · Table 4 religion
Religion
Ballyboghil vs National (%)
Ballyboghil
National
vs national average
Catholic
No religion
Irish Language
CSO Census 2022 · Table 3 Irish speakers aged 3 and over
Can speak Irish
40.9%
National: 39.83%
Speak Irish daily outside school
2.3%
National: 4.11%
vs national average
Can speak Irish
Daily outside school
The name Ballyboghil comes from the Irish 'Báile Bachaille,' meaning 'Town of the Staff,' referring to the Bachal Ísu, the sacred Staff of Jesus carried by St. Patrick and once safeguarded in the village's medieval church ruins. This ties Ballyboghil deeply to early Christian history, evoking its pastoral landscape where saints once roamed, long before modern homes dotted the green fields.
Housing & Tenure
CSO Census 2022 · Table 6 type of occupancy and accommodation
Owner occupied
71.4%
National: 65.9%
Private renting
6.7%
National: 18.0%
Social housing
20.4%
National: 10.0%
Ownership breakdown
Owned with mortgage
Owned outright
Dwelling type
House/Bungalow
Flat/Apartment
Cars per household
No car
Two or more cars
Predominantly owner-occupied at 71.4% with minimal private renting at 6.7%, and mostly houses over the 4.7% flats, it offers a settled, family-oriented housing scene dominated by spacious homes.
Health
CSO Census 2022 · Table 12 self-reported general health
Good or very good health
89.4%
National: 82.9%
Fair health
6.8%
National: 8.6%
Bad or very bad health
1.4%
National: 1.7%
Smokers
10.1%
National: 17.03%
Self-reported health
Ballyboghil vs National (%)
Ballyboghil
National
Exceptional health stats at 89.4% reporting good or very good health—above the 82.9% national average—reflect a wholesome, active lifestyle fueled by fresh air, nature walks, and community spirit.