Crime Statistics Ireland: A Decade of Home Burglary Trends

Whilst burglary statistics have risen modestly by 12% since the historic low of 8,588 recorded in 2021, PhoneWatch notes that this Covid-era figure represented an anomaly, with lockdowns and remote working meaning homes were occupied far more than usual. The recent increase in burglaries reflects a return to more normal patterns, with current levels still dramatically lower than the pre-2015.

This progress provides encouraging news as Ireland enters the winter months, a period when home break-ins traditionally spike. This is a reminder that all homeowners need to continue to be vigilant despite the long-term decline. Our data shows monitored homes are up to four times less likely to be burgled*, that’s a meaningful difference for families seeking peace of mind.

Breakdown of Crime Rates Statistics by Year 

2024

In 2024, Ireland recorded 9,632 home break-ins, marking a slight increase of 1% from the previous year. While the overall trend remains low compared to earlier years, this uptake signals the need for continued vigilance. The rise has reignited discussions around home invasion in Ireland and the need for homeowners to put stronger home security measures in place.

2023

Burglary statistics in 2023 outline 9,567 burglaries, showing another 1% increase from 2022. This subtle rise suggests that while the downward trend has slowed, the public remains concerned about home burglaries.  

2022  

In 2022, Ireland saw 9,459 burglaries, a noticeable increase of 10% from the previous year.  

2021  

Burglary figures dropped to 8,588 in 2021, the lowest burglary figure in the decade. This sharp 21% decline is attributed to pandemic-related restrictions. This reduced risk of burglaries.  

2020 

 In 2020, burglaries fell to 10,886, a 35% burglary rate reduction from the previous year, continuing the downward trajectory. Lockdowns and limited mobility contributed to this drop.  

2019  

Ireland recorded 16,750 burglaries in 2019, a slight 1% decrease from 2018. The steady decline reflects growing awareness and investment in security measures like home alarms.  

2018 

 Burglary cases in 2018 totalled 16,960, continuing the downward trend. Public campaigns promoting home safety and neighbourhood watch programs helped reduce incidents. 

2017 

 In 2017, burglaries rose slightly to 19,209, a 3% increase from the previous year. This increase highlighted vulnerabilities in certain areas and sparked renewed interest in the necessity of strengthening home security mechanisms.  

2016  

Burglary numbers dropped sharply to 18,585 in 2016, a 29% decrease from 2015.  

2015 

 Ireland saw 26,322 burglaries in 2015, down 5% from the previous year. The decrease signalled early success in crime prevention strategies. 

2014 

 With 27,710 burglaries reported in 2014, this year marked the highest point in the decade. The prevalence of house break-ins led to increased public demand for home security systems and greater awareness throughout the country for homeowners to take action. 

Eoin Dunne, Managing Director of PhoneWatch, commented on the crime rates in Ireland: “It’s encouraging to see that burglary rates in Ireland have halved over the past decade which is a clear sign that increased vigilance and better home security are making a difference. While there has been a modest rise since the pandemic low point in 2021, the overall picture is one of real progress. Ireland continues to perform better than most European countries in terms of burglary rates and that’s likely down to a combination of strong alarm adoption and something you can’t measure as easily - a real sense of community. We have fantastic neighbourhood networks, active local groups, and people who look out for each other, all of which help deter criminal activity.

Still, the risk hasn’t gone away. We’ve seen nearly 150,000 burglaries in the last ten years, roughly one in every 12 homes, and winter is always the most active season. That’s why we’re urging homeowners to take preventative steps. Reinforce doors and windows, set your alarm every time you leave, and consider a monitored system. Our data shows monitored homes are up to four times less likely to be burgled*, that’s a meaningful difference for families seeking peace of mind.”

Most Common Areas for Home Burglaries in Ireland 

Burglars are opportunists and they are aware of the 5 most common signs that lets them know that nobody is home. The best way to protect you and your family from home break-ins, is to regularly review home safety tips. In order to fully safeguard your home 24/7 and have remote access to check in, you should get a monitored home security system. 

There are no specific rural or urban areas that are more prone to burglaries but for the ten-year analysis of the CSO data, the combined Cavan and Monaghan Garda Division experienced the lowest decrease in burglaries from 2014 to 2024 at -19%, which is still a positive trend that rates have reduced. Next is the Clare Garda Division and the Tipperary Garda Division, whereby the decrease rate is promising, with both citing at -44%.

The Garda Division with the highest decrease in burglaries over the ten years is Dublin Eastern Garda Division at –79%, closed followed by Waterford and Cork West Garda Divisions both at -78%. Review the below and see where your county ranks in decreases in rates across the country. 

Ireland's burglary rate remains low by European standards. At 180 burglaries per 100,000 population, Ireland's rate is 34% below the European average of 277. According to World Population Review’s analysis of burglary in 2022, countries like Sweden, Luxembourg, Austria and Denmark report higher burglary rates per 100,000 inhabitants, while Ireland's rates are closer to the EU average. The below chart shows the top twenty countries in Europe with the highest burglary rates. The contrast with the UK is even starker with England and Wales experiencing 379 burglaries per 100,000 people, more than double Ireland's rate. 

This relative safety may be linked to Ireland's high alarm ownership. Half of Irish households have some form of a home alarm system, with 18% using professionally monitored systems, three times the European average of 6.3%. PhoneWatch's data shows that homes with monitored alarms are up to four times less likely to be targeted, suggesting that Ireland's strong security culture is helping keep burglary rates lower than neighbouring countries. 

Seasonal Home Break-in Security Tips 

Seasonal variations play a significant role in household crime statistics in Ireland. The longer, dark evenings during winter months provide more cover for potential intruders, leading to predominantly higher household crime statistics. However, burglary crime rates in summer months often see a spike due to homeowners being away on holidays, leaving homes unattended with minimum security measures in place.  But not to the same extent as in winter.  

Summer 

In summer homeowners should implement these simple summer home security tips to ensure they can have a worry-free holiday.  

Winter 

According to research with Bounce Insights in January 2025, 49% of homeowners feel less safe in winter and 64% at nighttime.  Data from PhoneWatch's Alarm Receiving Centre reveals consistent patterns in how burglars operate. The front door remains the most common entry point, whilst 2am to 4am represents the peak window for break-ins. These trends underscore the importance of visible deterrents, reinforced locks, and monitored alarm systems, particularly during vulnerable overnight hours when families are asleep. These useful safety tips help give you peace of mind. 

• Lock windows and doors: Always lock your doors and shut windows when you aren’t home. Never leave spare keys under the mat. 

• Light up: Keep a light on when you’re away, to make it look as if you’re home, or better still if you have smart plugs, use them. 

• Safeguard your valuables: Never leave valuables in plain sight, securely store them away in your home. 

• Neighbour assistance: Ask a neighbour to take in your post and bins while you are away so that it looks as if you are home. 

• Get a monitored alarm: Having a monitored home alarm will keep you protected 24/7 whether you are at home or away. PhoneWatch’s system also monitors against smoke incidents. Arm it and check for updates via the app from anywhere in the world. 

• Outdoor security:  Outdoor security cameras provide real-time monitoring and alerts, helping deter intruders and keep your home safe. With features like motion detection and high-definition video, you can stay informed about any activity around your property. Installing a video doorbell can help deter break-ins and improve home security in areas with higher crime rates. 
  
  

Home Security Measures & Crime Prevention 

Community Efforts & Garda Initiatives 

Community engagement plays a vital role in reducing Ireland's crime rates. Neighbourhood watch programs, in collaboration with local Gardaí, have been effective in fostering vigilance and prompt reporting of suspicious activities. Additionally, Gardaí have increased patrols in high-risk areas, which all helps reduce burglary crime rates. 

Conclusion 

Monitored alarms reduce burglary risk by over 75% according to PhoneWatch’s Alarm Receiving Centre data. To learn more about the best home security options to protect your home and family, click here to get a quote. 

For more information about crime statistics in Ireland, review our burglary report. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the latest Ireland crime statistics for homes?

According to our ten-year analysis (2014 - 2024) burglaries have decreased from 27,690 in 2014 to 9,728 in 2024, which is a decrease of over 50%.  However, after hitting a historic low of 8,588 in 2021, burglaries have risen by more than 12% in the three years since.

Which areas in Ireland have the highest burglary rates?

From our ten-year analysis of crime statistics in Ireland, all Gardaí divisions experienced a decline in burglary rates. The three divisions with the lowest rate of decline are the combined Cavan / Monaghan Garda Division at -19%,  Tipperary Garda division and Clare Garda Division both at -44%. 

How can homeowners reduce burglary risks?

Homeowners can adopt several measures to mitigate burglary risks:

1. Install a monitored alarm system: Professional monitoring ensures immediate response to any security incidents.
2. Use high-quality locks on doors and windows and keep them closed.
3. If you’re away on holidays and expecting parcels and bin collections, ask your neighbour to take them in.

To learn more about home security, check out our home safety tips article. 

How can I check crime rates in my area?

To assess crime rates in your locality, you can:

• Visit the CSO Website: The Central Statistics Office provides detailed and up-to-date crime statistics by Gardaí division.
• Contact Local Gardaí Station: Engaging with your local Gardaí station can offer insights into recent crime trends and preventive measures specific to your area.
• Participate in Community Meetings: Local community groups often discuss crime trends and useful safety strategies.

Is crime up or down in Ireland?  

Home break-ins have increased over each year for the last three years from 2022 to 2024. This rise can be attributed to multiple factors, including the easing of pandemic restrictions, economic challenges, and possibly reduced homeowner vigilance. 

What is the safest county in Ireland? 

There is no county deemed as the safest county as crime statistics in Ireland outlines that burglaries can occur in any part of any county if adequate security measures aren’t implemented. According to a ten-year analysis, the Garda division with the highest rate of burglary reduction from 2014 to 2024, was the Dublin Eastern Garda division at -79%, Waterford and Cork West Garda divisions both with a -78% reduction in burglaries.

*You're 4 times less likely to be burgled with a PhoneWatch alarm compared to the average national burglary rate.