Seasonal Rental Opportunities In Ireland

Published on October 4, 2025 and written by Cyril Jarnias

Ireland, with its lush landscapes, medieval castles, and vibrant cities, attracts millions of visitors from around the world each year. This growing popularity makes it a prime destination for real estate investors looking to enter the short-term rental market. Let’s explore together the opportunities offered by this dynamic market on the Emerald Isle.

A Thriving Market with Multiple Advantages

Short-term rentals in Ireland offer numerous benefits for property owners:

• Consistently increasing tourist demand, with over 11 million visitors in 2024
• High potential earnings, especially during peak season (June to September)
• Diversity of sought-after properties, from traditional cottages to modern apartments
• Favorable tax treatment for rental income
• The ability to personally use the property during off-season

Did you know? According to data from Ireland’s Central Statistics Office, the average monthly income generated by a short-term rental in Dublin was €2,500 in 2024.

Short-term rentals also allow property owners to enhance their real estate portfolio while benefiting from the appreciation of the Irish market, which has seen an average annual increase of 5% in recent years.

Keys to Effective Management

To maximize your investment returns, rigorous management is essential:

• Choose a strategic location near tourist attractions
• Offer well-maintained interiors and quality amenities
• Optimize your listing visibility on specialized platforms
• Provide warm and personalized guest welcome
• Efficiently manage bookings and occupancy schedules

Many owners use specialized agencies for daily property management. These professionals handle guest reception, cleaning, maintenance, and property promotion, typically charging a commission between 15% and 25% of generated income.

Digitalization in the sector also offers new opportunities. Automated management tools now allow for demand-based pricing optimization and simplified communication with guests.

An Evolving Regulatory Framework

While Ireland’s short-term rental market remains attractive, it’s important to stay vigilant about regulatory changes:

• Mandatory registration with local authorities for short-term rentals
• 90-day annual limit for primary residences in certain urban areas
• Requirement to obtain change-of-use permission for secondary residences
• Compliance with current safety and hygiene standards

Note: The Irish government is considering introducing new measures to further regulate the sector, particularly in high-pressure real estate areas like Dublin or Galway. It’s recommended to stay informed about legislative developments through the appropriate authorities.

Despite these constraints, Ireland’s short-term rental market remains highly attractive for savvy investors. The growing demand, combined with high potential earnings, makes it an interesting option for diversifying real estate portfolios.

Opportunities Throughout the Country

While Dublin remains the premier destination for short-term rentals, other regions also offer strong potential:

• County Kerry, with its spectacular landscapes and the Ring of Kerry
• The Galway region, popular for its festivals and Gaelic culture
• County Cork, blending coastal attractions and historical heritage
• The Wild Atlantic Way coastline, increasingly popular with tourists seeking authenticity

Properties with sea views or located in picturesque villages are particularly sought after. Tastefully renovated traditional cottages can generate substantial income, especially during the summer season.

The rise of green tourism and wellness-focused stays also opens new perspectives. Isolated properties offering tranquility and connection with nature are experiencing growing success.

Preparing Your Investment

Before entering Ireland’s short-term rental market, it’s crucial to properly prepare your project:

• Conduct thorough market research to identify the most promising areas
• Accurately calculate potential profitability considering all costs (management, maintenance, taxes…)
• Research the specifics of the Irish real estate market and purchase procedures
• Develop a detailed business plan including occupancy rate and income objectives
• Budget for furniture and decoration, essential for standing out

It’s recommended to consult local professionals (real estate agents, lawyers, accountants) to ensure your project complies with Irish legislation and to optimize your investment.

Implementing an effective marketing strategy is also crucial for your rental’s success. This may include creating a dedicated website, using social media, and optimizing listings on major booking platforms.

Short-term rentals in Ireland represent an attractive opportunity for real estate investors. With growing tourist demand and high potential earnings, this market offers excellent profitability prospects. However, proper preparation and attention to regulatory developments are essential to ensure long-term project success.