Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the Ireland Property Pack
Yes, the analysis of Dublin's property market is included in our pack
Buying an apartment in Dublin as a foreigner can feel overwhelming, especially when you're trying to figure out the real costs beyond just the listing price.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about Dublin apartment prices in 2026, from studio flats to three-bedroom units, plus all the hidden costs like stamp duty, legal fees, and ongoing expenses.
We constantly update this blog post to reflect the latest market data and official sources, so you always have current information.
And if you're planning to buy a property in this place, you may want to download our pack covering the real estate market in Dublin.
Insights
- Dublin apartment buyers should budget around 2% to 3.5% of the purchase price for closing costs on top of their deposit, with stamp duty at 1% being the largest single expense for properties under 1 million euros.
- First-time buyers in Dublin can access mortgages with just 10% down payment, while second-time buyers typically need 20%, making entry significantly easier for newcomers to the market.
- The price gap between new-build and resale apartments in Dublin runs between 10% and 20%, driven by construction costs that create a floor price of around 520,000 to 540,000 euros for new two-bedroom units.
- Dublin's most affordable areas like Ballyfermot (Dublin 10) and Finglas (Dublin 11) can offer apartments at half the price of premium postcodes like Dublin 4 or Dublin 2.
- Annual service charges for Dublin apartments typically range from 1,800 to 3,600 euros, with newer buildings featuring lifts and amenities sitting at the higher end of that range.
- Dublin apartment prices per square meter can vary from 4,000 euros in outer suburbs to over 11,000 euros in prime coastal and city-center locations.
- Foreigners buying Dublin property often face stricter lending requirements, with banks commonly asking for 20% to 30% deposits even when rules technically allow less.
- Local Property Tax in Dublin typically costs apartment owners between 300 and 700 euros per year, calculated based on official valuation bands set by Revenue.
How much do apartments really cost in Dublin in 2026?
What's the average and median apartment price in Dublin in 2026?
As of January 2026, the median apartment price in Dublin sits at around 430,000 euros (approximately 465,000 USD or 440,000 EUR), while the average apartment price is closer to 470,000 euros (roughly 510,000 USD or 480,000 EUR) due to high-end properties pulling the number up.
When it comes to price per square meter, Dublin apartments typically cost around 6,500 euros per square meter (about 7,000 USD or 600 euros per square foot), though this figure shifts dramatically depending on where you buy.
Most standard apartments in Dublin fall within a price range of 350,000 to 600,000 euros (roughly 380,000 to 650,000 USD), which covers the bulk of what first-time buyers and regular purchasers encounter in the market.
How much is a studio apartment in Dublin in 2026?
As of January 2026, a typical studio apartment in Dublin costs around 350,000 euros (approximately 380,000 USD or 358,000 EUR), though this varies based on location and building quality.
Entry-level and mid-range studio apartments in Dublin generally fall between 280,000 and 380,000 euros (300,000 to 410,000 USD), while high-end or luxury studios in prime areas like Dublin 2 or Dublin 4 can reach 450,000 euros or more (490,000 USD).
Studio apartments in Dublin typically measure between 25 and 40 square meters, with newer developments tending toward the larger end of that range to meet updated building standards.
How much is a one-bedroom apartment in Dublin in 2026?
As of January 2026, a typical one-bedroom apartment in Dublin costs around 420,000 euros (approximately 455,000 USD or 430,000 EUR), representing the most common entry point for solo buyers and couples.
Entry-level to mid-range one-bedroom apartments in Dublin range from 300,000 to 450,000 euros (325,000 to 490,000 USD), while high-end one-bedroom units in sought-after postcodes like Dublin 4 can exceed 500,000 euros (540,000 USD).
One-bedroom apartments in Dublin typically measure between 40 and 55 square meters, with newer builds generally offering slightly more space to comply with current minimum standards.
How much is a two-bedroom apartment in Dublin in 2026?
As of January 2026, a typical two-bedroom apartment in Dublin costs around 520,000 euros (approximately 565,000 USD or 530,000 EUR), making this the most competitive segment because it appeals to couples, small families, and sharers alike.
Entry-level to mid-range two-bedroom apartments in Dublin range from 400,000 to 550,000 euros (435,000 to 600,000 USD), while high-end or luxury two-bedroom units can easily exceed 700,000 euros (760,000 USD) in prime locations.
By the way, you will find much more detailed price ranges for apartments in our property pack covering the property market in Dublin.
How much is a three-bedroom apartment in Dublin in 2026?
As of January 2026, a typical three-bedroom apartment in Dublin costs around 700,000 euros (approximately 760,000 USD or 715,000 EUR), reflecting both their scarcity and the fact that many sit in newer, larger developments.
Entry-level to mid-range three-bedroom apartments in Dublin range from 550,000 to 750,000 euros (600,000 to 815,000 USD), while high-end or luxury three-bedroom units in premium locations can exceed 1,000,000 euros (1,085,000 USD).
Three-bedroom apartments in Dublin typically measure between 85 and 120 square meters, with newer schemes often including additional features like balconies or terraces that push sizes toward the higher end.
What's the price gap between new and resale apartments in Dublin in 2026?
As of January 2026, new-build apartments in Dublin typically cost 10% to 20% more than comparable resale units, and this premium can be even higher in prime areas or for turnkey developments.
New-build apartments in Dublin average around 7,500 to 8,500 euros per square meter (8,100 to 9,200 USD or roughly 700 to 790 euros per square foot), reflecting the high construction costs that create a price floor developers cannot go below.
Resale apartments in Dublin average around 5,500 to 7,000 euros per square meter (6,000 to 7,600 USD or roughly 510 to 650 euros per square foot), offering better value for buyers willing to accept older finishes or layouts.
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Can I afford to buy in Dublin in 2026?
What's the typical total budget (all-in) to buy an apartment in Dublin in 2026?
As of January 2026, the typical all-in budget to buy a standard apartment in Dublin runs between 480,000 and 550,000 euros (520,000 to 600,000 USD or 490,000 to 560,000 EUR), including the purchase price plus all closing costs and your deposit.
Beyond the purchase price, your all-in budget in Dublin needs to cover stamp duty (1% up to 1 million euros), legal fees and outlays (2,500 to 4,500 euros), Land Registry fees, survey and valuation costs, and any mortgage-related fees your lender charges.
We go deeper and try to understand what costs can be avoided or minimized (and how) in our Dublin property pack.
You can also read our dedicated blog article to understand what you can at different budget levels in Dublin.
What down payment is typical to buy in Dublin in 2026?
As of January 2026, first-time buyers in Dublin typically need a 10% down payment (around 43,000 euros or 46,500 USD for a median apartment), while second-time buyers usually need 20% (around 86,000 euros or 93,000 USD).
The minimum down payment required by most Irish banks follows Central Bank rules: 10% for first-time buyers (90% loan-to-value) and 20% for subsequent buyers (80% loan-to-value).
To secure favorable mortgage terms in Dublin, especially as a foreigner with a complex income profile, lenders often expect 20% to 30% down even if the official rules allow less, so planning for a larger deposit is smart.
You can also read our latest update about mortgage and interest rates in Ireland.
We made this infographic to show you how property prices in Ireland compare to other big cities across the region. It breaks down the average price per square meter in city centers, so you can see how cities stack up. It’s an easy way to spot where you might get the best value for your money. We hope you like it.
Which neighborhoods are cheapest or priciest in Dublin in 2026?
How much does the price per m² for apartments vary by neighborhood in Dublin in 2026?
As of January 2026, the price per square meter for Dublin apartments ranges from around 4,000 euros (4,350 USD) in outer suburbs to over 11,000 euros (12,000 USD) in prime coastal and city-center locations.
In the most affordable Dublin neighborhoods like Ballyfermot (Dublin 10), Finglas (Dublin 11), and Clondalkin (Dublin 22), apartments typically cost between 4,000 and 5,500 euros per square meter (4,350 to 6,000 USD).
In the most expensive Dublin neighborhoods like Dublin 4 (Ballsbridge, Donnybrook), Dublin 2 (city center), and coastal areas like Dalkey, apartments can cost between 8,000 and 11,000 euros per square meter (8,700 to 12,000 USD).
By the way, we've written a blog article detailing what are the current best areas to invest in property in Dublin.
What neighborhoods are best for first-time buyers on a budget in Dublin in 2026?
As of January 2026, the top three neighborhoods for first-time buyers on a budget in Dublin are Ballyfermot (Dublin 10), Finglas (Dublin 11), and Tallaght (Dublin 24), where apartment prices run significantly below the citywide median.
In these budget-friendly Dublin neighborhoods, typical apartment prices range from 200,000 to 350,000 euros (217,000 to 380,000 USD), which is often half what you would pay in premium postcodes.
These areas offer good public transport connections (Luas and bus links), local amenities like shopping centers, and improving infrastructure, making them practical choices for buyers who prioritize value.
The main trade-off is that these Dublin neighborhoods are further from the city center and may have less polished streetscapes or fewer trendy restaurants and cafes compared to inner-city postcodes.
Which neighborhoods have the fastest-rising apartment prices in Dublin in 2026?
As of January 2026, the Dublin neighborhoods with the fastest-rising apartment prices include Dublin 8 (Portobello, The Liberties), Dublin 12/Dublin 14 (Crumlin, Rathmines spillover), and Dublin 18 (Sandyford, Cherrywood area).
These fast-appreciating Dublin neighborhoods have seen estimated year-over-year price increases of 8% to 12%, outpacing the citywide average as buyers get priced out of premium cores and seek better value nearby.
The main driver behind rapid price growth in these areas is a combination of new infrastructure (like Luas extensions), new-build developments resetting local price anchors, and spillover demand from buyers priced out of Dublin 6 and Dublin 4.
You can also read our latest update about property price forecasts in Dublin.
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What extra costs will I pay on top of the apartment price in Dublin in 2026?
What are all the buyer closing costs when you buy an apartment in Dublin?
For a typical 450,000 euro apartment purchase in Dublin, total buyer closing costs run between 9,000 and 16,000 euros (9,800 to 17,400 USD), covering everything beyond your deposit.
The main categories of closing costs for Dublin apartment buyers include stamp duty, solicitor fees and legal outlays, Land Registry fees, survey and valuation costs, and any mortgage arrangement fees.
Stamp duty is typically the largest single closing cost for buyers in Dublin, charged at 1% of the purchase price for properties up to 1 million euros, which means 4,500 euros on a 450,000 euro apartment.
Some closing costs in Dublin are negotiable, particularly solicitor fees (which vary by firm) and mortgage broker fees (if you use one), while stamp duty and Land Registry fees are fixed by law.
On average, how much are buyer closing costs as a percentage of the purchase price for an apartment in Dublin?
Buyers should budget around 2% to 3.5% of the purchase price for closing costs when buying an apartment in Dublin, on top of their deposit amount.
The realistic range covering most standard Dublin apartment transactions is 2% at the low end (straightforward purchase with competitive solicitor fees) to 3.5% at the high end (complex transactions with comprehensive surveys).
We actually cover all these costs and strategies to minimize them in our pack about the real estate market in Dublin.
We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Ireland versus those in neighboring countries. It provides a clear view of how this country positions itself as a real estate investment destination, which might interest you if you’re planning to invest there.
What are the ongoing monthly and yearly costs of an apartment in Dublin in 2026?
What are typical HOA fees in Dublin right now?
In Dublin, what other countries call HOA fees are known as annual service charges, paid to the Owners' Management Company (OMC), and they typically range from 1,800 to 3,600 euros per year (1,950 to 3,900 USD or 150 to 300 euros per month).
Basic older apartment buildings in Dublin sit toward the lower end around 1,800 euros per year, while buildings with lifts, concierge services, gyms, or extensive common areas can reach 3,600 euros or more, with occasional special levies on top if the sinking fund needs replenishing.
What utilities should I budget monthly in Dublin right now?
For a typical apartment in Dublin, the total monthly utility cost runs between 190 and 390 euros (205 to 425 USD), covering electricity, gas (if applicable), and broadband.
Depending on apartment size, insulation quality, and usage habits, monthly utilities in Dublin can range from 190 euros for a well-insulated small apartment to 390 euros or more for a larger unit with older heating systems.
The typical monthly utility budget in Dublin includes electricity (90 to 180 euros), gas heating (60 to 140 euros if your building uses gas), and broadband (40 to 70 euros depending on provider and speed).
Electricity tends to be the most expensive ongoing utility for Dublin apartment owners, especially in buildings without gas connections where electric heating drives up consumption significantly.
How much is property tax on apartments in Dublin?
The typical annual property tax (called Local Property Tax or LPT) for an apartment in Dublin runs between 300 and 700 euros (325 to 760 USD), depending on the property's valuation band.
LPT in Dublin is calculated based on the market value of your property as of the official valuation date, with Revenue publishing bands and corresponding rates that determine your annual charge.
For most mainstream Dublin apartments priced between 400,000 and 600,000 euros, annual LPT falls within the 300 to 700 euro range, with higher-value properties paying proportionally more.
If you want to go into more details, we also have a blog article detailing all the property taxes and fees in Dublin.
What's the yearly building maintenance cost in Dublin?
For most Dublin apartment owners, the yearly building maintenance cost is bundled into your annual service charge, typically ranging from 1,800 to 3,600 euros (1,950 to 3,900 USD) as mentioned earlier.
Older buildings with aging infrastructure may face higher effective maintenance costs through special levies, while newer buildings generally have lower immediate maintenance needs but higher baseline service charges.
Building maintenance costs in Dublin typically cover routine repairs, common area upkeep, building insurance, management company fees, and sinking fund contributions for major future works like roof repairs or lift replacements.
In Dublin apartments, building maintenance costs are almost always included within your annual service charge rather than billed separately, so your OMC fee is essentially your total building maintenance commitment.
How much does home insurance cost in Dublin?
For apartment owners in Dublin, annual contents insurance typically costs between 200 and 450 euros (215 to 490 USD), with the building structure usually covered by the Owners' Management Company's block policy.
Depending on cover level, contents value, and any optional extras like accidental damage, Dublin apartment contents insurance can range from 200 euros for basic cover to 450 euros or more for comprehensive protection.
Contents insurance is not legally mandatory for apartment owners in Dublin, but most mortgage lenders require it as a condition of your loan, and building insurance (arranged by the OMC) is typically mandatory for all owners.
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What sources have we used to write this blog article?
Whether it's in our blog articles or the market analyses included in our property pack about Dublin, we always rely on the strongest methodology we can ... and we don't throw out numbers at random.
We also aim to be fully transparent, so below we've listed the authoritative sources we used, and explained how we used them and the methods behind our estimates.
| Source | Why it's authoritative | How we used it |
|---|---|---|
| CSO Residential Property Price Index | Ireland's official statistics office and the standard benchmark for price movements. | We used it to anchor Dublin price inflation and time-adjust older data points to January 2026. We also cross-checked portal data against this official source. |
| CSO RPPI October 2025 Release | The latest official inflation reading with consistent methodology. | We used Dublin's 12-month changes as a conservative carry-forward when estimating early 2026 prices from mid-2025 data. |
| CSO Property Prices by Eircode | Official transaction-linked data sliced geographically. | We used it to identify which Dublin areas are structurally expensive versus affordable. We used Eircode medians as reality checks on neighborhood examples. |
| Daft.ie House Price Report Q2 2025 | Ireland's best-known property portal with a widely-cited methodology. | We used it for apartment-specific list-price patterns by Dublin postcode. We then adjusted those figures forward to January 2026 using official inflation signals. |
| Daft.ie House Price Report Q4 2025 | The most recent Daft summary explaining 2025 annual trends. | We used it to calibrate how fast list prices rose through 2025. We used that to avoid over or undershooting when projecting to January 2026. |
| MyHome.ie Property Report Q4 2025 | A major Irish portal with consistent public methodology. | We used it as an independent cross-check on late 2025 conditions. We used it to confirm our early 2026 estimates match a tight but slightly cooling market. |
| Central Bank of Ireland Mortgage Measures | The banking regulator setting core mortgage rules. | We used it to state baseline deposit and income constraints. We used those rules to estimate typical down payments in Dublin in early 2026. |
| data.gov.ie Mortgage Lending Data | Official open-data portal with transparent datasets. | We used it as a cross-check that real lending outcomes match the regulatory framework. We kept deposit assumptions realistic for first-time versus repeat buyers. |
| Revenue Stamp Duty eBrief 2025 | The tax authority stating updated residential stamp duty rates. | We used it to compute the biggest single closing cost for Dublin apartments. We used the thresholds to build all-in budget examples. |
| Citizens Information Stamp Duty | Government-supported service summarizing rules in plain English. | We used it to double-check how stamp duty applies for typical owner-occupier purchases. We used it as a reader-friendly layer on top of Revenue's technical note. |
| Revenue Local Property Tax Bands | The official tax schedule for LPT. | We used it to outline how property tax is calculated. We built reasonable annual LPT ranges for common Dublin apartment price points. |
| Citizens Information LPT | Explains who pays LPT and valuation date timing. | We used it to explain LPT liability timing in 2026. We ensured our ongoing costs section matches how the tax is actually administered. |
| Tailte Eireann Land Registry Fees | The state body running the land registry with published fee schedules. | We used it to estimate registration-related costs alongside legal fees. We used it as the authoritative source for paperwork-related closing costs. |
| SEAI Electricity and Gas Prices | Ireland's national energy authority using official regulation datasets. | We used it to anchor realistic per-kWh energy price levels. We translated those into monthly utility budget ranges for Dublin apartments. |
| Eurostat Household Electricity Prices | EU's official statistics body with harmonized cross-country data. | We used it as a second-source check on electricity price levels and direction. We kept utility assumptions consistent with EU-wide measured prices. |
| SCSI Apartment Delivery Costs 2025 | The chartered surveyors' body with a major reference on apartment economics. | We used it to estimate the new-build cost floor for Dublin apartments. We used it to explain why new often carries a meaningful premium over resale. |
| SCSI Apartments and Service Charges | Professional body guidance on what service charges cover. | We used it to explain service charge structures and owner obligations. We validated typical fee ranges across different Dublin building types. |
We created this infographic to give you a simple idea of how much it costs to buy property in different parts of Ireland. As you can see, it breaks down price ranges and property types for popular cities in the country. We hope this makes it easier to explore your options and understand the market.
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