Northern Ireland is emerging as the UK’s top property investment destination, with new figures showing a mix of high rental yields, affordable property prices, and strong lifestyle appeal.

According to Northern Irish estate agent John Minnis, Belfast is expected to deliver the best rental yield in the region at 6.1%, followed by Derry/Londonderry at 4.3% and Newry at 2.7% – outpacing many major UK cities.

Research, as part of the John Minnis investment guide, also shows that the average house price in Northern Ireland is £176,131, compared to £316,000 in England – a huge 44.26% price gap. Even when compared to Wales (£225,000) and Scotland (£189,000), Northern Ireland remains the most affordable UK region to buy property.

This affordability extends to rental markets too. A two-bedroom apartment in Belfast city centre averages £930 per month, compared to £1,850 in London and £1,280 in Manchester. For landlords, this combination of low purchase cost and healthy rental income means stronger returns.

Agency founder John Minnis says: “Investors are looking for the sweet spot where affordability meets growth potential – and Northern Ireland is delivering exactly that. 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.”

Hotspots Driving the Market

Belfast – Northern Ireland’s capital is undergoing rapid transformation, with over £1 billion in regeneration projects, a thriving tech scene, and a student population exceeding 40,000 driving rental demand. The Titanic Quarter, Cathedral Quarter, and University Quarter remain particularly in demand.

Derry/Londonderry – The UK City of Culture 2013 continues to grow as a cultural and tourism hub, with riverside redevelopment and increased cross-border trade boosting its economy. Rental yields remain strong thanks to its university and expanding healthcare sector.

Newry – Strategically positioned between Belfast and Dublin, Newry is becoming a commuter and logistics hotspot. Infrastructure investment and retail expansion are supporting steady rental demand.

Other up-and-coming areas include:

• Lisburn – Fast-growing commuter town with new housing developments.

• Bangor – Coastal appeal with strong demand from retirees and remote workers.

• Coleraine – Proximity to the Causeway Coast boosts holiday-let potential.

Minnis says it’s not just investors driving the surge — relocation is on the rise. The region’s lower cost of living (12% below the UK average, according to ONS data), high quality of life, and sense of community are major draws.

• Community spirit: 84% of residents report feeling “closely connected” to their local area (Northern Ireland Life and Times Survey).

• Outdoor lifestyle: Over 70% of the population live within 30 minutes of the coast.

• Work-life balance: Average commute times are among the shortest in the UK, at just 22 minutes.

• Growing economy: NI’s private sector has grown 8% in the last five years, with strong growth in 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. 

“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. 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.”