Nursing Jobs in Cork
City life, coastal calm.
Cork is Ireland’s second city and a major centre for healthcare in the south of the country. This guide covers the main hospitals, other employers, living costs and what life is like for nurses in Cork.
Why nurses choose Cork
Cork combines a major teaching hospital and specialist services with a friendlier pace than Dublin. Rents are high but generally lower than in the capital. The city is known for its food, festivals, harbour and easy access to beaches and countryside in West Cork and Kerry.
Main hospitals
- Cork University Hospital (CUH), one of the largest teaching hospitals in Ireland and a major trauma and specialist centre, including cardiac, neurosciences and cancer services
- Cork University Maternity Hospital, one of the country’s largest maternity hospitals
- Mercy University Hospital, a voluntary teaching hospital in the city centre
- South Infirmary Victoria University Hospital, with orthopaedic, ear, nose and throat, ophthalmology and day surgery services
- Mallow General Hospital and Bantry General Hospital, serving north and west Cork
- Mental health services across the city and county
Private hospitals
Private employers include the Bon Secours Hospital Cork, one of Ireland’s largest private hospitals, and other private clinics. They recruit nurses for surgical wards, theatres, oncology and critical care.
Nursing homes and community care
Many nursing homes in Cork city and county recruit international nurses and offer adaptation places. Community and public health nursing services operate throughout the region. See our nursing home jobs guide.
Pay
HSE pay scales are the same nationwide, with premiums for nights and weekends. Private pay varies. See our nurse salary guide.
Living in Cork
- Housing. Demand is high, especially near CUH and the city centre. Popular areas include Wilton, Bishopstown, Douglas, Ballincollig and Blackpool.
- Transport. Cork has a city bus network and commuter rail to towns such as Cobh, Midleton and Mallow. Many nurses who work shifts use a car or cycle.
- Community. Cork has active Indian, Filipino, African and Pakistani communities, with places of worship and cultural events.
- Lifestyle. The English Market, coastal towns like Kinsale and Cobh, and beaches are all nearby.
Tips for Cork job seekers
- Apply directly to CUH, the Mercy, the South Infirmary and private hospitals.
- Consider regional hospitals for quicker progression.
- Ask about relocation support and temporary housing.
- Use our cost of living calculator.
Frequently asked questions
Is Cork a good city for international nurses?
Yes. It offers major hospitals, a strong community and a slightly lower cost of living than Dublin.
Does Cork University Hospital hire international nurses?
CUH and other Cork hospitals recruit overseas nurses through HSE and hospital campaigns.
Is housing in Cork expensive?
Rents are high, though usually lower than Dublin. Start your search early.
Compare more cities
See nursing jobs in Galway.