Ireland’s Music Industry Worth €1 Billion Annually, New IMRO Report Reveals

Author: Irish Central
Share

Ireland’s music industry contributes over €1 billion to the national economy each year and supports more than 13,400 jobs, according to the newly released 2025 IMRO Ireland: Music Report. Compiled by CORE Research and launched on July 8th, the report underscores the deep cultural and economic value of music in Irish life — with the average adult spending nearly €1,000 annually on music-related products and services.

Live music leads the way, accounting for €786 million in consumer spending, while streaming services drew €375 million in 2024 alone.

However, the report also highlights growing concerns over career sustainability in the sector. Fewer than half of music professionals hold full-time roles, and many rely on secondary income. It calls for stronger government supports, including:

  • Fair AI regulation aligned with the EU AI Act

  • Reforms to Section 481 to include music in cultural incentives

  • Expanded funding and tax reliefs for grassroots venues and Irish music in audiovisual content

  • Permanent implementation of the Basic Income for the Arts scheme


Alan Kelly TD said the findings “highlight the extraordinary cultural and economic value of music in Ireland,” while IMRO Chairperson Eleanor McEvoy emphasized that “passion alone cannot sustain a career in music” — calling for urgent action to support the industry in the face of financial instability and emerging threats like AI.


Explore the full report and learn what Ireland can do to secure a vibrant and sustainable future for its music creators.



Discover What's Happening

Association and Institutes Awards 2025

June 12th, 2025

Royal Marine Hotel, Dun Laoghaire

Business Sustainability Updates, Straight to Your Inbox

Explore our newsletters

Join our Newsletter to receive the latest industry trends, expert tips, and exclusive insights delivered straight to your inbox!