Burglaries up 10% in 2024 – Household Crime Statistics

Home Burglary Trends in Ireland

Recent Ireland Crime Statistics (2023-2024)

In the year leading up to Q3 2024, the CSO recorded a total of 9,981 burglary incidents, marking a 10% increase compared to the previous year. This rise is part of a broader trend of increased crime rates in categories, including theft and fraud. PhoneWatch conducted a recent survey with Bounce Insights*** whereby 50% of homeowners outlined that they’re more concerned about a break-in in their home now compared to 12 months ago.

How Do Ireland Crime Rates Compare to Previous Years?

While the recent 10% increase is alarming, it's essential to consider it within a broader context of trends in home burglary statistics. During the COVID-19 pandemic, burglary rates saw a significant decline, largely due to public health restrictions and increased time spent at home. As these restrictions have eased, a rebound in such crimes was anticipated. Thankfully this didn’t happen, and burglary and crime rates remained lower than pre-COVID-19 levels, however the past two years indicate burglaries are once again on the increase.

Which Areas Have the Highest Home Burglary Rates?

The surge in burglary crime rates isn't uniform across Ireland. The data outlines that 21 of the 28 Gardaí divisions have experienced an increase in burglaries within this period. With the combined Roscommon and Longford Gardaí division enduring the highest rate of increase in the country at 56% (277 burglaries), Tipperary increased by 50% (371 burglaries), Westmeath by 35% (272 burglaries), Wicklow increased by 33% (301 burglaries) and Limerick by 27% (571burglaries).

The CSO report did also outline positive decreases in burglaries within some Gardaí divisions, as the Mayo division cited the highest decrease in burglaries at -19% (137 burglaries), Wexford and Dublin Eastern divisions had the joint second highest decrease at -5% (292 and 361 burglaries respectively) and Kildare had a decrease of -2% (465 burglaries).

Seasonal Crime Patterns (Winter vs. Summer Burglaries)

Seasonal variations play a significant role in household crime statistics. Longer nights 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. Considering crime rates in Ireland 2024 and the relative months in 2023, there were 13% more burglaries in the quarters with winter months versus the quarters with summer months.

Keep your home safe during the Winter by following our winter home security tips

Home Security Measures & Burglary Prevention

Homeowners have an individual responsibility to protect their loved ones and home and thus create safer communities. By reviewing your current home security and following these effectives steps, you will help reduce crime rates and lower the rate of home burglary statistics in Ireland.

• Get a monitored alarm: Install a monitored alarm system to ensure your safety around the clock, both when you’re home and when you’re not. PhoneWatch also detects smoke-related emergencies. Having a monitored home alarm will keep you protected 24/7 whether you’re at home and away. PhoneWatch’s monitored alarm system also monitors against smoke incidents. In a recent survey conducted with Bounce Insights, 41% of homeowners said they’d feel safer with a monitored alarm.
• Neighbour assistance: Ask a neighbour to take in you post and bins while you’re away, so that it looks as if you are home.
• Maintain your garden: Keep your lawns cut and shrubs pruned, so it looks freshly done, especially if you’re going on holidays.
• Lock windows and doors: Always lock your doors and shut windows when you aren’t home. Never leave spare keys under the mat.
• Social media updates: If you are posting holiday pictures on social media, do so when you’re back home.

What Security Systems Reduce Crime?

Investing in robust security systems has proven effective in deterring burglars and combatting high crime rates, especially Dublin crime rates and other large cities with a higher population density. Alarm systems, especially those monitored by professional security companies, can significantly reduce the likelihood of a break-in. Visible security cameras and motion-sensor lighting also act as deterrents, making homes less attractive targets.

Smart Home Security Trends in 2025

The integration of smart technology into home security has gained momentum in 2025. Homeowners are aware of the benefits of security cameras, especially video doorbell cameras. Also improvements in integrated security systems that can be controlled remotely via a smartphone alarm app, with convenient featured such as scheduled alarm arming, has proven popular. These advancements offer real-time alerts and enhanced control, providing peace of mind and improved safety.

Community Efforts & Garda Initiatives

Community engagement plays a vital role in reducing Ireland 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the latest Ireland crime statistics for homes?

According to the latest Ireland crime statistics from the Central Statistics Office (CSO), burglaries have risen sharply across Ireland. Burglary crime rates have increased by 10% in the quarter leading up to Q3 2024, compared to the same period the previous year. The data outlines that 21 of the 28 Gardaí divisions have experienced an increase in burglaries within this period.

Which areas in Ireland have the highest burglary rates?

The top three areas with the highest burglary rates are:

1. Roscommon and Longford Gardaí division had a 56% increase in burglaries with 277 burglaries.
2. Tipperary Gardaí division increased by 50%, with 371 burglaries.
3. Westmeath Gardaí division increased by 35% with 272 burglaries.

Has home crime increased or decreased in recent years?

Crime has increased by 10% nationally in the 12 months up to Q3 2024. This rise can be attributed to multiple factors, including the easing of pandemic restrictions, economic challenges, and possibly reduced homeowner vigilance.

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 security 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.

Staying informed and proactive is key to ensuring the safety and security of your home and community. We all need to work together to reduce household crime statistics throughout Ireland.

_{*Analysis period: the last 12 months- Q4 2023 - Q3 2024 refers to October 2023 to September 2024}

_{** Analysis period: the previous 12 months- Q4 2022 - Q3 2023 refers to October 2022 to September 2023}

_{***A survey on home security was conducted by Bounce Insights on behalf of PhoneWatch with 500 participants in January 2025.}