Burglary Statistics Ireland 2025: What the CSO Data Shows

National Picture: A 13% Decline

The 13% drop in burglaries statistics in Ireland in 2025 represents a notable reversal after the upward trajectory documented in the 2024 CSO data. For the first time since 2021, the national trend is moving in the right direction as Ireland crime statistics 2025 citied a welcome decline.

However, context matters. At 8,469 incidents, Ireland still recorded an average of over 23 burglaries every single day in 2025. The decline is encouraging, but it does not signal that burglary risk has disappeared. It signals that collective efforts, through Garda resources, community vigilance and strong home security measures and technology are having an impact in many areas.

The challenge now is sustaining that momentum while addressing the divisions where the problem is getting worse.

Regional Breakdown: Where Burglaries Fell and Where They Rose

The national average masks significant regional variation. Of the 28 Garda divisions detailed in the CSO burglary statistics in Ireland, 22 recorded a decline, one remained flat, and five saw burglaries increase. From a combined Garda division perspective, the burglary rate in the 6 Garda divisions in Dublin was flat.

Divisions with the Biggest Improvements

Rural and western divisions dominate the improvement list. Roscommon / Longford's 61% reduction is the standout figure, representing a dramatic turnaround for an area that has historically struggled with rural crime.

Divisions Where Burglaries Increased

These five divisions conflict with the national trend entirely. Dublin Eastern's 24% increase is particularly notable given its proximity to the capital and the volume of households affected. Homeowners in Wexford, Wicklow, Kerry and Dublin Western Garda divisions are also facing elevated risk in home burglaries despite the positive national picture.

For a broader view of how these figures fit into longer-term patterns, the Ireland crime statistics overview provides useful decade-level context.

What the CSO Burglary Statistics Mean for Irish Homeowners

A national decline does not translate to a risk reduction in burglary rate in Ireland. If you live in Dublin Eastern, Wexford, Wicklow, Kerry or Dublin Western Garda division perimeters your local burglary rate increased in 2025. The national trend offers no protection to individual households in those areas.

Even in divisions that saw significant improvements, the underlying risk factors remain. Rural isolation, for example, still increases Garda response times when a break-in does occur. A 61% drop in Roscommon / Longford is welcome, but a burglary in a remote location still poses the same challenges it always has.

Previous research has consistently identified the 5pm to 11pm window as the highest-risk period for residential break-ins. That pattern has not changed.

What has remained constant across all the data is the effectiveness of monitored home security. A professionally monitored alarm remains the most reliable deterrent, regardless of whether local rates are rising or falling. PhoneWatch's 24/7 monitoring service responds to alerts in an average of 15 seconds, ensuring that help is dispatched before intruders have time to act.

A 13% national drop is progress. But with 8,469 households still affected, the case for protection remains as strong as ever and each individual homeowner needs to be vigilant and review their home security measures.

Top Home Security Tips from PhoneWatch

PhoneWatch advises to follow these 5 simple home security measures.

• Always lock doors and windows, even when at home.
• Lighting up your home gives the appearance of occupancy even when you’re away. Most home security systems come with smart plugs, that can be put on timers or turned on instantly when needed.
• Keep valuables out of sight, avoid leaving expensive items visible through windows.
• Secure sheds and side gates, as tools can be used to gain entry.
• Avoid posting travel plans on social media, which can signal an empty home.
• Consider a monitored alarm system, which provides immediate response and peace of mind. If you have an alarm, arm it day and night whether you’re at home or away.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many burglaries were there in Ireland in 2025?

There were 8,469 home burglaries in Ireland in 2025, a 13% decrease from the 9,748 recorded in 2024, according to the CSO.

Are burglaries going up or down in Ireland?

Burglaries fell by 13% nationally in 2025, with 22 of 28 Garda divisions recording a decline. However, five divisions recorded increases, including Dublin Eastern (+24%), Wexford (+18%), Wicklow (+17%) Kerry (+8%) and Dublin Western (+5%).

Which areas of Ireland have the highest burglary rates in 2025?

Based on the CSO Q4 2025 data, the Dublin Eastern, Wexford, and Wicklow Garda divisions recorded the largest year-on-year increases in burglaries in 2025.

Which Garda divisions had the biggest drop in burglaries in 2025?

The Roscommon / Longford Garda division recorded the largest decrease at 61%, followed by Mayo at 44%, Sligo / Leitrim at 40%, and Limerick at 38%.

What is the best protection against burglary in Ireland?

A professionally monitored home alarm is consistently the most effective deterrent. PhoneWatch monitors over 120,000 Irish homes 24/7 with an average alarm response time of 15 seconds.