29 January 2026
By Roger Kennedy
roger@TheCork.ie
Remote and hybrid work models have been on the rise for quite some time, and they have definitely transformed the office rental market worldwide. Many businesses decided to rethink how they use their headquarters, either expanding, downsizing, or transforming them to meet new needs. The cost of office space in Ireland has been on the rise for some time now, making it a challenge to find the right place at the right price, especially for young businesses and startups. Still, the presence of an actual bureau in Dublin is a sign of prestige and credibility that both clients and employees appreciate, so finding a quality location is key for many entrepreneurs. For businesses looking to open a new location, it’s essential to keep a vigilant eye on office rental in Dublin so they don’t miss their opportunity. Here, the market moves fast, and the best spots fill up quickly.
Why Office Costs Are Rising
We’ve been observing a surge in rental prices across most major European cities, and Ireland is no exception. Demand is growing faster than supply in many urban centers, especially in the capital, giving the landlords an excuse to raise rents. International interest and a surge of newcomers, combined with a shortage of new developments in the key area of Dublin, led to the results we see today. According to Forbes’ analysis of real estate trends, a new global trend is spreading, in which landlords prioritise tenant quality and long-term leases over quantity and quick turnover. This results in higher prices for individuals and smaller businesses alike. For those companies, careful planning and budgeting are crucial, as blindly chasing a prestigious-looking address could quickly strain their resources.
Balancing Remote with Physical Space
The pandemic really reshaped how we view office jobs worldwide. Remote work existed before 2019, for sure, but not to the extent we see today, and this shift was a real game-changer for our very definition of the word “office.” Many firms are no longer seeking a full-time use of space for all employees, opting instead for a more flexible arrangement. Combining remote work with scheduled office days, coworking partnerships, and all this can reduce costs while keeping the benefits of a real-life base. Still, having a physical office remains indispensable in many industries, particularly those that rely on personal client contact and thrive on collaboration and team cohesion. Deciding how much space you’ll actually need as a company entering the Irish market is crucial to your budget and the future of the entire business. Also, pay attention to other things, like how much conference space do you need? Maybe a quiet focus area is essential? Client-facing reception that would represent the whole company? All these factors should be taken into consideration before you make the final choice.
The Value of Strategic Presence
Despite rising costs, having your own office space as a company, especially in business hubs like Dublin, remains a too-good-to-pass-up opportunity. It definitely helps with credibility, client trust, and collaboration opportunities, and it provides an additional vantage point for potential future employees, many of whom prefer a dedicated workspace rather than always working from home. The key to finding the right place for your business’s needs (and budget) is understanding your team’s needs and carefully planning, so you can choose the best space for your company without draining all your resources in year one. With the right approach and good research, you’ll surely find the property that fits your needs. Just remember to keep your finger on the pulse, so that you don’t miss out on some amazing opportunity!