Strong occupancy rates in both Carrigaline and Midleton

The national commercial vacancy rate climbed to 14.6% in June 2025, the highest level ever recorded, according to the latest GeoDirectory Commercial Vacancy Rates Report. That translates to more than 30,800 empty business premises nationwide.

Cork, however, continues to perform better than most. The county’s vacancy rate stood at 12.5% — lower than the national average but still up slightly from last year. The increase was just 0.1 percentage points compared to June 2024.

Some towns in Cork are struggling more than others. Cobh and Youghal recorded vacancy rates of 19.1%, well above the national average, while Carrigaline had the lowest in the county at just 5.1% — one of the best rates in the country.

Midleton and Carrigaline also stand out for their strong occupancy rates, with 18.4% and 17.3% of units in use by the health sector.

Limerick had the highest rate in the province at 17.9%, while Kerry performed best at 12.2%.

Nationally, vacancy remains highest in the west. Sligo recorded the highest rate in the country at 20.8%, followed by Donegal (20.3%) and Galway (18.7%). By contrast, Meath had the lowest vacancy rate at 10%, with Wexford (10.6%) among the strongest performers. Dublin’s rate stood at 13.9%, still below the national average but edging upwards.

GeoDirectory CEO Dara Keogh said the figures underline a major shift in Ireland’s business landscape. “There are now over 30,800 commercial units lying vacant, a reminder that our commercial landscape as well as consumer behaviour is shifting.”

Annette Hughes, Director at EY Economic Advisory, added that the trend shows the scale of challenges businesses face despite Ireland’s strong economy. “Vacancy rates are rising even as residential vacancy rates fall to historic lows. Cost pressures and changing shopping habits continue to impact the sector in different ways depending on location.”

For Cork, the picture is mixed — overall vacancy rates remain healthier than most counties, but certain towns are showing warning signs as they struggle to keep business premises filled.