"Investors are looking for the sweet spot where affordability meets growth potential – and Northern Ireland is delivering exactly that"
- John Minnis - John Minnis estate agents
Northern Ireland is positioning itself as one of the UK’s strongest property investment markets, combining high rental yields, comparatively low property prices, and strong lifestyle appeal.
Figures from Northern Ireland-based estate agent John Minnis show Belfast is forecast to deliver the highest rental yield in the region at around 6.1%, followed by Derry/Londonderry at 4.3% and Newry at 2.7%. These figures outpace many larger UK cities.
Research in the John Minnis investment guide also indicates that the average house price in Northern Ireland is £176,131. This compares with £316,000 in England, representing a price gap of 44.26%. Even against Wales (£225,000) and Scotland (£189,000), Northern Ireland remains the most affordable UK region for property buyers.
Rental affordability follows a similar pattern. A two-bedroom apartment in Belfast city centre averages £930 per month, compared with £1,850 in London and £1,280 in Manchester. For landlords, the combination of lower purchase costs and healthy rental income supports stronger returns.
"Investors are looking for the sweet spot where affordability meets growth potential – and Northern Ireland is delivering exactly that," said John Minnis, founder of John Minnis estate agents. "You can buy a quality home here for less than half the price of one in England, but still achieve yields that rival or beat the rest of the UK."
Market hotspots
Belfast – The capital is undergoing over £1 billion in regeneration projects, supported by a growing tech sector and a student population of more than 40,000. The Titanic Quarter, Cathedral Quarter, and University Quarter remain in high demand.
Derry/Londonderry – The UK City of Culture 2013 has developed as a cultural and tourism centre, with riverside redevelopment and cross-border trade driving its economy. Rental yields remain supported by the local university and healthcare sector.
Newry – Positioned between Belfast and Dublin, the city is attracting commuters and logistics firms. Infrastructure upgrades and retail growth are helping sustain rental demand.
Lisburn – A fast-growing commuter town benefiting from new housing developments.
Bangor – Coastal location with appeal for retirees and remote workers.
Coleraine – Close to the Causeway Coast, attracting demand for holiday lets.
Lifestyle appeal driving relocations
The rise in property investment is accompanied by more people choosing to move to Northern Ireland. The region’s cost of living is around 12% below the UK average, according to ONS data, and it offers a mix of lifestyle advantages:
Community connection – 84% of residents report feeling ‘closely connected’ to their local area, according to the Northern Ireland Life and Times Survey.
Proximity to coast – Over 70% of the population lives within 30 minutes of the shoreline.
Shorter commutes – Average journey times are among the shortest in the UK at 22 minutes.
Economic growth – The private sector has grown 8% in five years, led by IT, advanced manufacturing, and tourism.
"The combination of low interest rates, increased access to financial resources and the growing desire for long-term wealth has converged at a time when the housing market offers promising returns for investors," Minnis commented. "Additionally, many young adults are facing challenges entering the traditional housing market due to soaring home prices, prompting them to pivot to investment properties as a more feasible alternative."
"For families, Northern Ireland offers something rare – affordability without compromise,’ he added. "You can have a spacious home, access to great schools, a short commute, and world-class scenery all in one place. It’s no surprise more people are making the move here."
