Ireland’s property market at the end of 2025
As 2025 draws to a close, Ireland’s housing market is ending the year on a steady but complex note. Prices continue to rise across most regions, though the pace of growth has eased compared to previous years. Behind the headlines, familiar challenges around housing supply and affordability remain, shaping how buyers, sellers, and developers are navigating the market.
A Market That’s Growing — but Calming
After several years of sharp increases, property prices in 2025 have grown at a more moderate rate. Most counties have seen mid-single-digit growth, with Dublin showing slower momentum and regional areas continuing to edge upward.
While price inflation is less dramatic than it was a few years ago, strong demand and limited stock have kept values resilient. Homes that are well-located and energy-efficient are still attracting plenty of interest, particularly from first-time buyers and those trading up.
Supply Still Struggling to Catch Up
The main story of the Irish market hasn’t changed much: there simply aren’t enough homes. Although new housing completions improved slightly through the year, they continue to fall short of what’s needed to meet demand. Construction costs, planning delays, and tight labour markets have slowed the pace of delivery.
As a result, competition remains intense for quality homes, especially in urban centres and commuter regions. Many would-be buyers continue to face challenges finding suitable properties within their budget, pushing some to look further afield or consider new-build developments.
Regional Trends: Beyond Dublin’s Shadow
Dublin’s property market has matured into a slower but more stable growth phase. Prices there have largely levelled out as affordability constraints weigh on buyers.
Outside the capital, however, activity remains lively. Counties in the Midlands, South-East and West have seen stronger year-on-year price increases as buyers continue to seek better value and more space. Smaller towns and regional cities have benefited from remote-work flexibility and ongoing investment in infrastructure.
Financing, Rates, and Buyer Confidence
Mortgage lending has stayed relatively steady throughout 2025. While interest rates remain higher than during the low-rate era, many lenders have introduced competitive fixed-rate options that give buyers a greater sense of security.
Affordability, however, is still a major factor. Rising household costs and higher deposit requirements mean some buyers have delayed purchasing plans or downsized expectations. Investors, too, are more cautious, balancing yield prospects with changes in tax and rental regulations.
What’s Next for 2026
Looking ahead, the outlook for 2026 is cautiously optimistic. If construction output continues to improve and inflationary pressures remain contained, the market could see a more balanced environment emerge. However, sustained demand from new households and continued population growth will keep pressure on the limited housing stock.
The focus will likely shift to:
- Boosting housing supply through planning reform and new-build support
- Improving affordability for first-time buyers
- Encouraging sustainable and energy-efficient development
- Expanding regional housing capacity to match employment and population trends
The Irish property market at the end of 2025 can best be described as steady but undersupplied. Price growth has cooled slightly, yet the fundamentals — strong demand, limited availability, and a stable economy — continue to support values.
For buyers, patience and preparation remain key. For sellers and developers, quality presentation, location, and energy efficiency have never mattered more. And for agents, understanding local trends is essential in helping clients make confident, well-timed decisions.
The coming year promises a market that rewards insight and adaptability — qualities that will define the most successful players in Ireland’s ever-evolving property landscape.