Average Income Over €84,000 for Irish Home Buyers in 2024 Amid Declining Sales

The median income for home buyers in Ireland has risen significantly, reaching over €84,000 in 2024, up from €80,100 in 2023 and €75,600 in 2022, highlighting the increasing financial burden on prospective buyers. Joint purchasers dominate the market, constituting just over 60% of buyers, with Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown showing the highest joint purchaser income at €157,100 and the highest median property prices, particularly in Pembroke, Dublin City. The number of homes purchased slightly declined to 48,780 in 2024, with notable regional shifts such as a 21% drop in Kildare and a 19% rise in Wicklow. Younger buyers, especially those under 35, face challenges as home ownership becomes increasingly elusive, with the median income for this group at €86,400. Price increases vary widely across counties, with Sligo experiencing the largest jump of 26%, followed by Limerick and Westmeath. Experts warn that for many, especially single buyers, owning a home is becoming a "pipe dream" due to rising costs and a shortage of available housing.