I live in Portlaoise so I'm also a bit biased.If you're looking to work in Dublin then Portlaoise is the better option for getting there.The motorway is fantastic I get from Portlaoise to Naas in 30 Minutes,trains are also excellent as are the buses(Aircoach/CIE).Prices are good value IMHO,and there are plenty of options,my estate is very low density and mostly bungalows so I've no one looking into my backgarden.Tullamore definately has the handle on shopping,lots bigger shops etc, it's about 35 Minutes from Portlaoise ,but the new Whitewater shopping cente in Newbridge(20mins away) is opening next month and it's the biggest shopping center outside of Dublin so that's another bonus.I love the town and people,I like being able to get seats in the pubs!Saturday night is the busiest night.You should also check out Carpenters Post on Portlaoise,very in depth.