More than 7 in 10 young people, aged 18 to 24, say they're considering moving abroad to enjoy a better quality of life.
A new National Youth Council survey, carried out by Red C, shows it's due to the severe impact the cost-of-living crisis is having on them.
It's calling for action from the government in the Budget to prevent them from emigrating.
The survey shows 8 in 10 are fearful for the future. 1 in 2 reported worse mental health due to the the rising cost-of-living, while half said they're struggling to make ends meet.
More than 4 in 10 said they're not as happy as they were six months ago, and more than a quarter say their experience with housing in the past six months has worsened.
The National Youth Council is calling for more support and investment for young people, including, increasing the minimum wage for under-20s to the same level as for over-20s, and bringing Jobseekers' Allowance rates for under-25s in line with that of those over 25.
The NYCI also wants to see lower registration fees for those in college, higher education, or on apprenticeships.
The council is also asking for the Young Adult travel card to be available to more people, and more government investment in youth work services in local communities.
Director of Policy and Advocacy, National Youth Council of Ireland, Paul Gordon, said: “There is a real fear from young people about what the future holds for them."
"Many say they’re struggling to make ends meet and quality-of-life considerations are driving them to consider a future outside of Ireland. Government must act to ensure young people aren’t overlooked in this crisis.”
