Mayo sees 26 percent increase in new home construction over past two years

New housing commencement data released by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage reveals a significant uptick in residential construction across County Mayo, with more than 1,100 new homes breaking ground over the past two years.

The figures, published alongside December 2025 national data, show that 1,152 housing units were commenced in Mayo during 2024 and 2025 combined—representing a 26% increase compared to the 916 units started in the previous two-year period of 2022-2023.

The December data also highlighted a national increase in new home starts, with 3,065 units commenced across Ireland last month—double the November figure of 1,533 units. Nationally, 16,412 units were commenced throughout 2025.

In Mayo specifically, 347 new homes were commenced in 2025, a decline from 2024's higher total. Officials attributed the 2024 spike to Government initiatives including a development levy waiver and an Úisce Éireann rebate, which accelerated several projects toward commencement.

Taking a longer view, Mayo has seen 2,490 housing units commenced over the past five years, contributing to a national total of 176,206 units started between 2021 and 2025.

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Browne TD welcomed the increased construction activity in the western county.

"I am determined to back ambition for Mayo and delivering the homes we need across the county," Minister Browne said. "This serious jump in the delivery of new home starts in Mayo during the last two years is encouraging and signals further growing confidence in the construction sector."

The minister emphasized that the increase reflects activity across all housing types, not just state-backed social and affordable housing projects.

"This isn't just about state backed delivery of social and affordable homes, this is about the activation of our private sector and seeing homes of all types for individuals and families," he said.

Minister Browne pointed to the recently launched Housing Action Plan as evidence of continued Government commitment, noting it includes record financial investment alongside measures to improve infrastructure delivery including water, electricity, and roads.

"As we continue to implement the action plan with huge urgency, I expect to see commencements rise year on year in Mayo," the minister added.

The commencement figures represent homes where construction has officially begun, serving as an indicator of future housing supply in the county.