Area-wise both places are nice. Really they are not all that comparable though, in my opinion. Stillorgan is a very nice, sought after area in south Dublin, close to city centre, better ammenities etc. I don't know anything about the schools. Whereas Leixlip is in Kildare, more affordable so better house for your money, small village type setting, alot further from the city centre but you do have the train. If all your friends are in Leixlip I would be inclined to go there as I feel that when buying a home, being near friends and family is what makes you happy there, not what your investment will be worth down the line. That could be just me though. You could get a lovely house for your money in Leixlip and put the rest towards some other investment or savings account for your children. Alternatively, buy the house in Stillorgan and do it up exactly how you want, there is a lot of work involved but also immense satisfaction in that. You will undoubtedly make new friends there through your children.