Dublin: House prices in Ireland’s western counties have experienced a dramatic surge, driven by an acute housing shortage. According to East Coast Index figures, house prices have doubled in counties Clare, Donegal, Galway, Limerick, Mayo, Roscommon, and Sligo, reaching unprecedented levels.
Limited Housing Supply Driving Price Increases
The housing shortage in these counties is not a new phenomenon, as few new housing projects have been initiated. With limited options for buyers, property owners are reportedly asking up to €50,000 above market prices. The shortage is particularly evident in the availability of three-bedroom semi-detached homes.
Figures show that prices for three-bedroom semi-detached houses have risen by 6%—or more than €10,000—over the past 12 weeks, doubling the 7.5% annual increase seen in commuter counties. Currently, the average price for these homes stands at €330,602, reflecting a 2.1% increase in the last quarter. Annual price growth is projected at 9%.
Counties Mayo and Clare See 25% Price Hike
Counties Mayo and Clare are among the hardest hit, with severe shortages of properties leading to competitive bidding wars.
- Mayo: Three-bedroom semi-detached houses have seen a 25% increase in price, now averaging €240,000—an increase of €48,000 since March.
- Clare: House prices have risen by 21%, with three-bedroom semis now costing €290,000.
Estate agents predict similar trends in 2025, with second-hand properties and new builds remaining in short supply.
Price Trends Across Other Regions
- Commuter Counties: Prices in counties surrounding Dublin have risen by 2% over the past three months to an average of €343,778, representing a 7.5% annual increase.
- Dublin City: House prices in the capital increased by 1.85% in the last quarter, with three-bedroom semis now priced at €542,000.
- Other Cities: Cities outside Dublin saw a 2% quarterly increase, bringing the average house price to €348,000—up 7.7% on an annualised basis.
- Galway City: Prices rose by €10,000 in the second quarter, with three-bedroom semis now costing €370,000—a 10% annual increase.
- Cork: Prices increased to €390,000 (1.3% quarterly rise).
- Limerick: Prices reached €320,000 (1.6% quarterly rise).
- Waterford: Prices climbed to €312,000 (2.3% quarterly rise).
National Average and Future Projections
The average house price in major cities across Ireland is now €249,448, reflecting a 2.6% increase in the past quarter. Analysts expect the upward trend to continue, with prices projected to rise by 9% in 2025.
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