Commercial real estate in Ireland is heating up and if you’re looking to make a smart investment in 2025, now is the time to act. But where exactly is the growth happening? Whether you’re a seasoned investor or just entering the market, understanding the commercial property hotspots can give you a competitive edge. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the booming regions, emerging trends, and why these locations are catching investor attention across the country.

Dublin: Still the Capital of Commercial Growth

It’s no surprise that Dublin remains at the heart of Ireland’s commercial property boom. The city has long been a magnet for multinational companies, particularly in tech, finance, and pharmaceuticals. Office space continues to command strong demand, especially in Docklands, Grand Canal, and Ballsbridge.

The post-pandemic hybrid work shift hasn’t slowed growth instead, it’s led to an evolution in commercial design, with modern, flexible spaces rising in popularity. Dublin’s infrastructure, access to international airports, and strong public transport links make it a top choice for both investors and tenants.

Retail and hospitality sectors are also bouncing back in prime city-centre zones, giving savvy buyers multiple angles to consider.

Cork: The Rebel City on the Rise

Over the past five years, Cork has quietly positioned itself as Ireland’s second commercial powerhouse. Investment in infrastructure such as the Docklands regeneration project, new transport routes, and expansion of Cork Airport has transformed the city into a compelling hub for business.

Life sciences, IT, and global pharmaceutical brands like Pfizer and Apple have all deepened their roots here. That has created steady demand for logistics spaces, R&D centres, and office blocks. Investors looking for slightly lower entry points than Dublin will find strong potential in Cork with consistent long-term growth.

Limerick: A Hotbed for Tech and Innovation

Thanks to its strategic location in the Midwest region, Limerick has evolved into a leading destination for commercial development. The presence of Shannon Airport, proximity to the Atlantic Economic Corridor, and lower operational costs have drawn in both local enterprises and international players.

The Limerick 2030 plan, which includes the €200 million Opera Site redevelopment, is set to inject fresh energy into the city’s core. Limerick is especially appealing for tech start-ups and education-linked enterprises due to the influence of the University of Limerick. It’s a city that’s building not just buildings, but also a new business identity.

Galway: A Balanced Investment Opportunity

For investors interested in a mix of culture, talent, and commercial vibrancy, Galway presents a unique proposition. The city benefits from a young, educated workforce, driven by NUI Galway and a lively start-up scene.

With increasing demand for co-working spaces, innovation hubs, and mixed-use developments, Galway offers great potential for forward-looking investors. Local government support and a strong focus on sustainability also align well with ESG-driven property portfolios.

Regional Towns: The Underdog Opportunities

While the major cities continue to dominate, there is growing investor interest in regional towns such as Waterford, Athlone, and Sligo. These areas are benefiting from government decentralisation efforts, local business incentives, and significantly lower property prices.

Retail parks, warehousing, and industrial units are in rising demand as e-commerce and regional logistics grow rapidly. Plus, remote and hybrid working models have decentralised business operations, increasing the need for commercial space outside urban cores.

Keep an eye on places where population growth and connectivity improvements intersect that’s where the next big boom could quietly begin.

Key Trends Driving the Boom

The landscape of commercial property investment is changing quickly. Here are some trends that are influencing where commercial real estate is booming:

• Sustainability and ESG: Properties with green certifications are attracting premium tenants and long-term leases.
• Hybrid workspaces: Demand for flexible office layouts is rising, especially in tech-driven sectors.
• Urban regeneration: Government and private investments in upgrading city centres are drawing both developers and investors.
• Logistics and warehousing: With e-commerce expanding, there’s high demand for last-mile delivery hubs and storage solutions.

These shifts aren’t just temporary they’re reshaping the market and creating lasting value opportunities for those who move early.

What Makes a Good Commercial Investment in Ireland?

Success in commercial property isn’t just about location it’s about timing, tenant demand, rental yields, and capital appreciation. Investors should assess:

• Proximity to transport links and business clusters
• Infrastructure development plans
• Local government investment initiatives
• Market trends in tenant preferences

Partnering with local platforms like FindQo.ie ensures you’re accessing the most current data, on-the-ground insights, and verified listings across Ireland.

Invest Where the Future Is Being Built

Ireland’s commercial property market is full of promise, with clear hotspots and emerging locations leading the way. From tech-driven cities like Dublin and Cork, to innovative hubs in Limerick and Galway, to underrated regional towns with high growth potential, the opportunities are vast.

Whether you’re diversifying your portfolio or entering the market for the first time, now is the time to act.