Galway Rent Crisis: Unsustainable Costs
Galway’s rental market is in crisis! news Directory 3 reports that average monthly rents have skyrocketed to €2,304, a 12.6% increase in just one year, forcing residents into desperate situations. Teh Residential Tenancies Board (RTB) is investigating “concerning trends,” but for Galway locals, the reality is stark: some are living in caravans and temporary housing due to the unsustainable costs. From families struggling to find suitable homes, to the struggles of retirees and young people, the impact is widespread. The stories of jane Windey,Kathryn Reynolds,and Sharon Goldie paint a vivid picture of the challenges. Discover what’s next as the RTB aims for solutions.
Galway Rental Crisis: Residents Struggle as Rents Soar
Galway is grappling with a severe rental crisis, as soaring costs force residents into desperate situations. The average monthly rent in Galway city has reached €2,304, marking a 12.6% increase in the last year, according to recent reports.
The Residential Tenancies Board (RTB) has taken notice, warning of “concerning trends” of rental inflation in Galway. The board plans to investigate the issue, engaging with renters, landlords, and other stakeholders to understand the factors driving up prices.
For manny, the high cost of rent has made finding suitable housing nearly unfeasible. Jane Windey, such as, has been living in a caravan for almost two years. “I’m really struggling to find anywhere that I can afford,” Windey said,noting the difficulty of finding pet-friendly accommodations. she added,”You’re looking at a single room [in Galway] for €600 to €700 a month.That’s just not lasting for me.”
kathryn Reynolds, who returned to Galway from Spain in 2020, has experienced the escalating costs firsthand. “When I came back in 2020, I was paying €800 [per month],” Reynolds said. She recounted instances of landlords attempting to raise rents considerably, forcing her to seek support from the RTB.Currently, she pays €700 for a room in a shared house.
Karen Golden, CEO of Galway Simon, highlighted the dramatic increase in rental costs. “In Galway city between 2020 and 2025 we have seen a 75% increase [in monthly rent],” Golden said. “There are very few people whose net household income has increased by 75%.”
The crisis extends beyond Galway city. Sharon Goldie and her son have been living in temporary accommodation in Loughrea for the past five years after their landlord in Galway city sold their property. “My son is autistic. he just deserves better,” Goldie said, explaining the negative impact the lack of space has had on her son’s mental health.
Don Colleran, an auctioneer in Eyre square, emphasized that the rental crisis affects all generations. He noted that even people nearing retirement are struggling to find affordable housing. “We have a crisis at all ends,” Colleran said,pointing to the challenges faced by first-time buyers and retirees alike.
Cáit Ní Ghiaináin, co-chair of the Galway branch of CATU, a tenants’ union, echoed thes concerns. “The situation is dire, and rents need to come down,” Ní Ghiaináin said, highlighting the struggles of young people working full-time on minimum wage.
Tracey, who moved to south Galway 15 years ago, has witnessed the rapid changes in the rental market. “When I first moved,I had the choice,” Tracey said. “Over the course of eight to 10 years things changed rapidly.” She expressed the uncertainty and stress of not knowing where she will be living in the future, a common sentiment among renters in Galway.
“I’ve been living in a caravan for almost two years. I’m really struggling to find anywhere that I can afford.”
jane Windey, Galway resident
What’s next
The RTB’s investigation into Galway’s rental market is expected to provide insights into the factors driving up costs and potential solutions. In the meantime, residents continue to grapple with the challenges of finding affordable housing in a competitive market.