Looking to buy or rent in Dublin this year? Whether you’re a first-time buyer, seasoned investor, or relocating tenant, knowing where to look is half the battle. Dublin is a city of contrasts—vibrant urban centres, leafy suburbs, coastal villages, and emerging commuter towns. Each area offers a unique lifestyle, price point, and investment opportunity.
In this 2025 local property guide, we break down the best places to buy or rent property in Dublin, based on liveability, transport, value, and community feel.
North Dublin: Affordable Gems with Rising Potential
Santry – Dublin 9
With excellent access to Dublin Airport and the M50, Santry has become one of North Dublin’s hottest locations for both buyers and renters. It’s home to modern developments, green spaces like Santry Park, and quick connections into the city centre via the Swords Road bus corridor.
Why buy or rent in Santry?
- Excellent rental demand
- Mix of new-build apartments and mature estates
- Strong return on investment
Clongriffin – Dublin 13
Just north of Baldoyle, Clongriffin is transforming into a well-planned urban hub. With the DART station right on its doorstep and retail space expanding, it’s an ideal location for first-time buyers and those looking for newer builds.
2025 Tip: New developments in Clongriffin are attracting young professionals and growing families.
South Dublin: Established, Desirable and Family-Friendly
Rathmines – Dublin 6
A long-time favourite for professionals and students alike, Rathmines combines Georgian charm with urban convenience. The area has a mix of period homes, modern apartments, and a thriving café culture.
Ideal for: Renters seeking a trendy lifestyle and homeowners wanting long-term growth potential.
Dundrum – Dublin 14
With one of Ireland’s largest shopping centres, Luas access, and excellent schools, Dundrum is a prime location for families. Prices remain high, but so does quality of life.
Expect: Competitive bidding on homes for sale, and high rental demand in modern developments.
Dublin City Centre: Urban Living at Its Peak
Dublin 1 – IFSC & North Docklands
If you’re after convenience, Dublin 1 offers city-centre living with investment appeal. The IFSC (International Financial Services Centre) is a hub for finance and tech industries, making it ideal for professionals who want to walk to work.
For buyers/investors: Apartments in this area tend to yield strong rental returns, especially with the tech sector growing steadily into 2025.
Smithfield & Stoneybatter – Dublin 7
These areas have seen huge regeneration over the last decade. Once undervalued, they’re now full of stylish apartments, creative spaces, and trendy food spots.
Bonus: The Luas Red Line runs through both, offering seamless travel into the city.
Coastal Dublin: Lifestyle + Views
Howth – Dublin 13
Looking for sea views and hiking trails just outside the city? Howth offers stunning coastal homes and a relaxed lifestyle. While prices here are higher than other northside areas, you’re buying into a premium lifestyle.
Best for: Those looking to escape city noise without losing access to it—perfect for high-end buyers or long-term renters.
Dún Laoghaire – South County Dublin
A historic harbour town with excellent DART links, Dún Laoghaire offers period houses, marina views, and a family-friendly atmosphere. It’s ideal for buyers with a mid-to-high budget who want a coastal vibe.
Up-and-Coming Areas: Where to Watch in 2025
Balbriggan – North County Dublin
This commuter town continues to grow thanks to improved transport links and affordability. With coastal access and major developments in the works, it’s one of the best-value areas for buyers in 2025.
Renters will love the lower prices and proximity to beaches. Investors should note its high rental yield potential.
Lucan – West Dublin
Known for its schools, parks, and solid infrastructure, Lucan is drawing attention from families priced out of central Dublin. The area continues to see high demand, especially for 3- and 4-bed homes.
2025 Insight: New housing schemes in Lucan are creating affordable opportunities for first-time buyers.
Dublin Areas at a Glance – 2025 Property Guide
| Area | Type | Best For | Property Type | Transport Links | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Santry (Dublin 9) | Suburban North | First-time buyers, commuters | Houses, apartments | Bus, M50 access | €300K – €450K |
| Clongriffin (Dublin 13) | Regenerating Northside | Investors, professionals | New developments, apartments | DART, bus | €275K – €400K |
| Rathmines (Dublin 6) | South City Fringe | Renters, urban lifestyle seekers | Period homes, apartments | Bus, walking distance to city | €400K – €700K |
| Dundrum (Dublin 14) | South Suburb | Families, long-term buyers | 3-4 bed homes, duplexes | Luas Green Line | €500K – €800K+ |
| Dublin 1 (IFSC) | Central Business Area | Professionals, investors | City apartments, studios | Luas Red Line, central stations | €350K – €600K |
| Stoneybatter / Smithfield | Historic Central | Young buyers, renters | Apartments, cottages | Luas, city centre access | €400K – €650K |
| Howth (Dublin 13) | Coastal North | High-end buyers, lifestyle seekers | Detached homes, sea-view houses | DART, coastal roads | €600K – €1.2M+ |
| Dún Laoghaire | Coastal South | Families, seafront living | Period homes, townhouses | DART, bus | €550K – €950K |
| Balbriggan | Commuter Town North | Value-seeking buyers, investors | Semi-detached, new builds | Train, M1 motorway | €250K – €375K |
| Lucan (West Dublin) | Suburban West | Families, first-time buyers | 3-4 bed homes | N4, frequent buses | €350K – €500K |
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Final Word: Dublin Has Something for Everyone in 2025
Whether you want city buzz, coastal calm, or suburban comfort, Dublin’s diverse property market offers the right fit for every lifestyle. From emerging commuter towns like Balbriggan, to thriving cultural quarters like Stoneybatter, the opportunities to buy or rent in Dublin in 2025 are stronger and more exciting than ever.
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