Ireland has been attracting labor migrants from all over the world for years offering good salaries, a growing job market, and relatively straightforward employment rules. However, one of the biggest challenges upon arrival turns out to be finding a place to live. So, how much does it cost to rent an apartment in Ireland, and what should you be prepared for before signing a lease? Check out the latest rental market information for 2025.
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Renting an Apartment in Ireland – Price Depends on Location
The cost of renting an apartment in Ireland largely depends on the city and district where you want to live. The most expensive market remains Dublin – the capital, and the country’s business and tech hub.
Dublin:
- Studio – from €1700 to €2300/month
- One-bedroom apartment – €1900–2600
- Two-bedroom apartment – up to €2800–3500
Cork, Galway, Limerick:
- Studio – €1100–1500/month
- One-bedroom apartment – €1300–1800
- Two-bedroom apartment – €1700–2300
Smaller towns and rural areas:
- Offers from €800/month are possible, though rare and quickly disappear from the market.
Additionally, you must consider utility costs, which average between €150–250 per month (electricity, gas, waste collection, internet).
How Much Does Renting an Apartment in Ireland Cost in 2025?
Ireland’s rental market continues to struggle with a housing shortage, which drives rent prices up. According to the latest 2025 data:
- The national average rent is currently around €1700 per month
- In Dublin – on average over €2300
- In smaller towns – from €900 to €1300
It’s worth noting that the annual rent increase ranges from 6% to as much as 12%, especially in larger cities. This is due to limited housing supply, rising building maintenance costs, and an increasing influx of foreign workers.
What Is the Apartment Rental Process Like in Ireland?
If you’re interested in renting an apartment in Ireland, be prepared for a rather demanding process. In popular locations, the competition for apartments is high.
What do landlords usually require?
- Deposit (typically equal to one month’s rent)
- First month’s rent upfront
- References from a previous landlord or employer
- Proof of income or employment
- Sometimes: credit history or PPS number (Personal Public Service Number)
Leases are usually signed for 12 months, with an option to extend. Every legal tenancy should be registered with the RTB (Residential Tenancies Board).
How and Where to Look for Apartment Rental Offers in Ireland?
The most popular websites for rental listings are:
- www.daft.ie – the largest database of rental properties
- www.rent.ie – an alternative featuring less common locations
- MyHome.ie – listings from agencies and private landlords
In larger cities, it’s important to act quickly – listings often disappear within a day. In some cases, Facebook groups can also be helpful, but caution is advised. Avoid listings without a contract or those asking for a deposit before viewing the property.
Renting in Ireland – Are There Cheaper Alternatives?
Due to high prices, more and more people are choosing:
- House sharing – the cost of a room in Dublin is around €800–1200/month
- Student accommodation – available for students, often on an all-inclusive basis
- Employer-provided housing – especially common in hospitality, elder care, and construction sectors
These are good options to start with, until you find your own place or decide on a long-term rental.
Renting an apartment in Ireland is one of the biggest financial burdens for residents, especially in major cities. Despite rising prices, many people still choose to live and work in the country, taking advantage of attractive salaries and a high quality of life. If you’re also planning to move to Ireland, it’s worth starting your apartment search early and – at least initially – consider sharing a place with others, which can significantly lower your startup costs.
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