Over 60% of under-35s considering social housing, report shows

Michael Bolton

Research has shown that 61 per cent of people under 35 are considering social housing in a bid to secure a home amid ongoing housing pressures.

This is up nine per cent in this age group.

PTSB's annual Reflecting Ireland Housing and Homeownership 2026 report shows 55 per cent of the same cohort looking at long-term renting as a way to secure a home.

52 per cent of people in the age group believe they will never own a home.

One in four renters, who previously had not considered social housing, is now open to it.

Almost half of mortgage holders (47 per cent) are considering switching mortgage providers, up five percentage points since last year.

When buying a property, 69 per cent viewed the price as the key factor, while having a garden (26 per cent), energy efficiency (24 per cent) and proximity to family (23 per cent) continue to influence decision-making.

Saving for a deposit remains the most difficult stage, with 47 per cent saying it is difficult, although perceptions have improved somewhat compared with 58 per cent last year.

Family support is playing an increasingly important role, with around half of first-time buyers (49 per cent) expecting assistance through gifts, loans or inheritance.