The landscape of Ireland’s workforce has transformed dramatically over the past quarter-century, with new figures from the Central Statistics Office revealing that the number of women in employment has more than doubled since 1998, reaching an all-time high of 1,328,900 by the end of 2025.
This milestone, compared to just 641,800 women employed in the fourth quarter of 1998, represents a 107% increase and underscores the fundamental reshaping of Ireland’s labour market over the past generation.
Where Women Are Working
The latest figures highlight the sectors where women’s representation is strongest. At the end of 2025, women made up:
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75.9% of the workforce in Human Health and Social Work activities
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74.9% of the workforce in Education
These sectors continue to be predominantly female-driven, reflecting both traditional career paths and the growing demand for roles in care, health services, and education across the country.
Progress at the Top
Perhaps the most encouraging trend emerges at the highest earning levels. The proportion of women among the top 1% of earners has climbed steadily, reaching 27.6% in 2024—a significant increase from 22.6% in 2019.
This five-percentage-point rise over just five years signals a genuine shift in female representation at senior levels, in leadership positions, and across high-paying industries. While there remains work to be done, the trajectory is clear: more women are breaking through to the upper echelons of the earnings ladder.
The Earnings Picture
Median weekly earnings for women stood at €654.07 in 2024, providing a benchmark for ongoing discussions around pay equity and career progression.
What This Means for Recruiters and Employers
For employers attending Recruit.ie events, including the upcoming Jobs Expo Cork taking place in the Clayton Hotel Silver Springs on Saturday, 11th April, these figures carry important implications:
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Talent pools are evolving. With women now comprising a larger and more diverse share of the workforce, attraction and retention strategies must reflect this reality.
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Leadership pipelines are strengthening. The rise in female top earners suggests that investment in female talent development is paying dividends. Companies that continue to prioritise mentorship, flexible pathways, and inclusive promotion practices will be best positioned.
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Sector-specific targeting matters. With women dominating health and education, cross-sector mobility initiatives could unlock new talent for industries seeking diversification.
Looking Ahead
As we move through 2026, Recruit.ie remains committed to connecting employers with the full spectrum of Ireland’s talent. Our recruitment fairs provide platforms where progressive companies can engage with diverse candidates, including the growing number of women shaping the future of Irish business.
For job seekers, these figures offer encouragement: the labour market is more inclusive, more diverse, and more open to female talent at every level than ever before.