As Thirsty said the ideal situation would be to rent for a while. I commuted a number of years ago to work and it was a right pain.
New three bed semi prices at the moment are between 240k and 260k. Older popular estates like Clonattin and Sean Laois would command prices probably in excess of 200k for 3 bed semi. The likes of Clonattin Village, Ramsgate and Medowgate would be below 200k. These are newer estates with lots of young children and good few rentals. That said there is nothing wrong with them. Nice period type apartments such as priory court bang in the middle of the town make around 180k for a two bed.
Very difficult to find a rental at the moment especially on a short lease.Would I personally commute to Dublin on a daily basis? No.
But many do. If your commute was at your leisure and only a couple of days per week no prob.
Good clubs activities in the area. But as Thirsty suggested maybe take a test drive before jumping. Good Luck.