US LGBTQ+ Couples Seek Homes in Ireland Post-Trump Re-election

The recent re-election of Donald Trump as President of the United States has prompted a significant increase in the number of LGBTQ+ couples from the US purchasing homes in Ireland. According to the Institute of Professional Auctioneers & Valuers (IPAV), this trend reflects heightened concerns among queer individuals regarding their civil rights under Trump’s leadership.

Genevieve McGuirk, chief executive of IPAV, noted that the uptick in interest from US buyers has been particularly noticeable in recent months. “Historically, we saw people from the US coming here because they had connections to Ireland,” she explained. “They were looking for holiday homes, but that has changed, particularly in the west.” McGuirk emphasized that the political climate in America has instilled a sense of unease among many potential buyers.

“People are nervous about their own money, nervous about going out and about their views,” she stated. While some buyers have familial ties to Ireland, many do not. The change in purchasing behavior reflects a broader search for safety and community.

Growing Demand for Safe Havens

The shift in buying patterns includes individuals like comedian Rosie O’Donnell, who relocated from the US just days before Trump’s inauguration in January 2025. This move represents a growing trend, as more LGBTQ+ individuals seek refuge in places they perceive as welcoming and secure.

Ronan Crinion, founder and managing director of MoveHome estate agents in Dublin, has observed a marked increase in his gay and lesbian clients. He reported that the number of clients has surged from “a trickle” last year to dozens in 2025. “They are looking for a safer haven, a welcoming community, which the LGBTQ+ community is in Ireland,” Crinion remarked.

Most of these buyers fall within the age range of 40 to 60, suggesting that this demographic is particularly motivated to seek new opportunities abroad. The appeal of Ireland’s inclusive society and supportive environment for LGBTQ+ individuals has become increasingly attractive in light of recent political events in the US.

Impact of Trump’s Policies

Trump’s administration has been marked by controversial positions on equality initiatives, including diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. In fact, he has faced accusations of verbally or politically attacking LGBTQ+ individuals at least 225 times before his second term began. This history of hostility has heightened fears among many in the community, prompting them to consider relocating.

The rising interest in Irish real estate by US LGBTQ+ couples not only highlights a shift in living preferences but also underscores the ongoing struggles faced by marginalized communities in the United States. As they seek to establish lives in environments that prioritize acceptance and safety, the demand for properties in Ireland is expected to continue growing.

This trend reflects more than just a real estate movement; it symbolizes the search for a place where individuals can live authentically without fear of discrimination. With the political landscape in the US evolving rapidly, the Emerald Isle stands as a beacon for many seeking solace and security in a complex world.