Ireland’s Rental Crisis: Airbnb Outnumbers Long-Term Lets Four to One

Ireland is facing a severe housing shortage, exacerbated by the proliferation of short-term rentals. A recent analysis reveals that there are four times as many properties listed on Airbnb as there are full-time private rentals available nationwide, intensifying the pressure on renters and contributing to rising housing costs.

The Scale of the Problem

According to a report by tenants’ advocacy charity Threshold, as of March 13, 2026, there are at least 8,600 Airbnbs compared to 2,100 full-time private rental properties across Ireland. This figure is likely conservative, potentially rising to 20,039 short-term lettings when including properties where the host only has one listing – which could be their primary residence.

The imbalance is particularly stark in rural areas, where the availability of long-term rentals is severely limited. Some counties have over 25 times more Airbnbs than homes available for long-term rent.

New Regulations and Planning Permissions

In response to the growing crisis, Ireland has implemented stricter regulations regarding short-term lettings. Since July 2025, the entire country has been designated a Rent Pressure Zone (RPZ), applying consistent rules nationwide.

Letting Your Primary Residence: If you reside in the property while renting it out, you can offer unlimited short-term lets (in stints of 1–14 days each) and rent up to four bedrooms with a maximum of four guests per room. However, you must notify your local council before commencing. If you are absent, you are limited to 90 rental days per year, with each stint also lasting 1–14 days, and annual notification to the local council is required.

Letting a Second Home: Owners of second homes generally require planning permission for a “change of use” to operate as short-term rentals.

Impact on the Rental Market

The surge in Airbnbs is diverting properties away from the long-term rental market, reducing supply and driving up prices. This makes it increasingly difficult for individuals and families to locate affordable housing, particularly in popular tourist destinations like County Kerry, and Killarney.

The situation is prompting calls for the government to accept urgent action to prevent homes from becoming solely short-term holiday lets and to increase the overall supply of rental properties.

Finding Accommodation in Ireland

Despite the challenges, various vacation rentals are available across Ireland. Airbnb offers a range of options, including cabins in Raven’s Rock, County Kerry, and rural retreats in Killarney.

Key Takeaways

• The number of Airbnbs in Ireland significantly outnumbers long-term rental properties (4:1).
• New regulations require planning permission for second homes used as short-term rentals.
• Restrictions apply to the number of days a primary residence can be rented out short-term.
• The proliferation of short-term rentals is exacerbating the housing crisis and driving up rental costs.