Castletown Geoghegan is a quaint, historic village in County Westmeath, nestled southwest of the shimmering Lough Ennell and just 13 km from Mullingar, known for its deep roots with the Geoghegan family who were medieval lords of the Moycashel Barony. It's a peaceful rural spot with a close-knit community of families and retirees, featuring St. Michael's Church and proximity to adventures like Lilliput Adventure Centre on the lake. Life here feels timeless and welcoming, perfect for those seeking quiet countryside charm with easy access to nature and history.
Overview
CSO Census 2022 · Small Area Population Statistics
Population
297
Census 2022
Owner occupied
73.1%
National: 65.9%
Crime rate per 1,000
73.2
National avg: 54.1
With a small population of just 297, Castletown Geoghegan offers a tight-knit, stable community where over 73% of homes are owner-occupied—well above the national average—suggesting strong roots and family ownership. The crime rate at 73.2 per 1,000 is a bit higher than average, but in such a tiny village, this likely reflects minor local incidents rather than serious concerns, keeping it feeling safe and familiar.
Age Profile
CSO Census 2022 · Table 1 population by age
Age distribution
Castletown Geoghegan vs national average (%)
Castletown Geoghegan
National
The age profile shows a vibrant mix with 20.5% under 14 and 19.9% over 65—both above national averages—pointing to a family-friendly community bustling with kids and supported by active retirees.
Under 14
20.5%
National: 19.7%
65 and over
19.9%
National: 15.1%
Male / Female
51.9% / 48.1%
National: 49.4% / 50.6%
Economic Status
CSO Census 2022 · Table 8 principal economic status (aged 15+)
Economic status
Castletown Geoghegan vs National (%)
Castletown Geoghegan
National
vs national average
At work
Retired
Student
Looking after home/family
Half the residents are at work, with a notable 24.2% retired, painting a picture of a steady, semi-rural economy where folks balance local jobs with the calm pace of village life.
Third Level Education
CSO Census 2022 · Table 10 highest level of education completed
vs national average
Third level education
Third-level education stands at 28.1%, below the national 39.2%, suggesting a practical, hands-on community that values local skills and traditions over higher academia.
Crime & Safety
CSO Recorded Crime Statistics · Garda subdistrict level · 2024
Crime rate per 1,000
73.2
National avg: 54.1
vs national average
35% above national average
2024 recorded crime
3-year avg rate
68.0
Per 1,000 · 2022–2024
Higher than average crime: The Kilbeggan Garda subdistrict records a crime rate of 73.2 per 1,000 — 35% above the national average of 54.06. This is typical of busy urban or commercial areas where higher footfall drives more recorded incidents.
Crime rate is based on recorded incidents in the Kilbeggan Garda subdistrict (population 5,106), which covers Castletown Geoghegan and surrounding areas. Data: CSO Recorded Crime Statistics.
Commuting
CSO Census 2022 · Table 11 departure times & travel mode
Departure time for work / school
Castletown Geoghegan vs National (%)
Castletown Geoghegan
National
How people travel to work
Castletown Geoghegan vs National (%)
Castletown Geoghegan
National
vs national average
Work from home
Public transport
Car / van
This is very much a car-dependent area, with 79.8% driving to work and only 1.7% using public transport, plus just 6.7% without a car—ideal if you love the freedom of the road through Westmeath's lakelands. Working from home is a bit lower at 8.4%, but it fits the self-reliant rural vibe.
Nationality & Ethnicity
CSO Census 2022 · Table 2 nationality and ethnicity
Citizenship / nationality
Castletown Geoghegan vs National (%)
Castletown Geoghegan
National
Ethnicity
Castletown Geoghegan vs National (%)
Castletown Geoghegan
National
vs national average
Irish citizen
White Irish ethnicity
Religion
CSO Census 2022 · Table 4 religion
Religion
Castletown Geoghegan vs National (%)
Castletown Geoghegan
National
vs national average
Catholic
No religion
Irish Language
CSO Census 2022 · Table 3 Irish speakers aged 3 and over
Can speak Irish
37.4%
National: 39.83%
Speak Irish daily outside school
—%
National: 4.11%
vs national average
Can speak Irish
Daily outside school
'Castletown Geoghegan' comes from the Irish Baile Chaisleáin Mag Eochagán, meaning 'the town of the castle of the son of Eochagán,' honoring the Geoghegan clan's ancient stronghold in this fertile lakeland area. It whispers of a resilient history through Tudor times and Cromwellian upheavals, where the family held onto grazing lands near Lough Ennell, shaping the village's enduring rural heritage.
Housing & Tenure
CSO Census 2022 · Table 6 type of occupancy and accommodation
Owner occupied
73.1%
National: 65.9%
Private renting
2.9%
National: 18.0%
Social housing
15.4%
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
Homes are almost entirely owner-occupied at 73.1% with minimal private renting at 2.9%, and no flats or apartments—think sturdy family houses in a picturesque, low-density setting.
Health
CSO Census 2022 · Table 12 self-reported general health
Good or very good health
86.9%
National: 82.9%
Fair health
8.1%
National: 8.6%
Bad or very bad health
1.7%
National: 1.7%
Smokers
11.8%
National: 17.03%
Self-reported health
Castletown Geoghegan vs National (%)
Castletown Geoghegan
National
An impressive 86.9% report good or very good health, higher than the national average, reflecting a wholesome, active lifestyle amid the fresh air and open spaces of rural Westmeath.