Belfast vs Derry/Londonderry for Property Investment
Derry/Londonderry leads on gross yield at 7.5%, while Derry/Londonderry has the lower entry price at £125,000. Here is how the two markets compare on yield, price, deposit and tenant demand.
Belfast vs Derry/Londonderry at a glance
| Metric | Belfast | Derry/Londonderry |
|---|---|---|
| Average gross yield | 6.8% | 7.5% |
| Average property price | £175,000 | £125,000 |
| Implied monthly rent | £992 | £781 |
| 25% deposit | £43,750 | £31,250 |
| Stamp duty (additional property) | £8,750 | £6,250 |
| Population | 345,000 | 85,000 |
| Region | Northern Ireland | Northern Ireland |
| Investor rating | Good | Good |
Belfast
Typical stock is a mix of terraces, ex-council semis and a growing number of apartment conversions closer to the centre. Tenant demand is underpinned by public-sector employers including hospitals and councils, local employment in services, healthcare and logistics, supported by a population of around 345,000. On the average £175,000 purchase, a 6.8% gross yield implies roughly £992 per calendar month in rent — a useful sanity check when you are reviewing a listing. Capital city with tech sector growth and regeneration.
- Strong fitStandard buy-to-let
- WorkableHMO / rent by the room
- Strong fitFirst-time landlord
Derry/Londonderry
Stock is dominated by Victorian and inter-war terraces, with two- and three-bed houses making up most of what comes to market. Tenant demand is underpinned by local employment in services, healthcare and logistics, supported by a population of around 85,000. On the average £125,000 purchase, a 7.5% gross yield implies roughly £781 per calendar month in rent — a useful sanity check when you are reviewing a listing. Affordable entry with strong rental yields.
- Strong fitStandard buy-to-let
- Consider carefullyHMO / rent by the room
- Strong fitFirst-time landlord
Which is the better investment?
If monthly cash flow is your priority, Derry/Londonderry is the stronger option on paper at 7.5% gross. If you want the lower capital commitment, Derry/Londonderry needs around £31,250 as a 25% deposit. Averages only take you so far, though — run the actual listing through PropertyROI before you offer.
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