A NEW study has revealed the best and worst counties in Ireland to start a business – and Donegal has ranked fifth on the list.

The research, carried out by business utility consultants Procure.ie, analysed the availability of commercial properties to rent and buy, average salaries, disposable income per person, and the number of jobs advertised in each county per 100,000 people.

Each factor was standardised into an overall Total Index Score to identify the most promising counties for entrepreneurs.

Donegal placed fifth in the rankings, with an index score of 255.00.

The county performed particularly well for high availability of commercial properties to buy suggesting that Donegal provides strong opportunities for new businesses.

Across Ireland, Roscommon took the top spot with the highest overall score of 310.61, boosted by strong property availability and low barriers to entry. It was followed by Mayo (306.92) and Tipperary (285.60).

At the other end of the scale, Wicklow, Laois, Offaly, Meath, and Kildare were found to be the most challenging locations to start a business, due to higher wage pressures, limited property supply, and lower relative disposable incomes.

John Small from Procure.ie said:

“Starting a business is an exciting challenge, but many new entrepreneurs underestimate the impact that location can have on long-term success.

“Our research shows that counties like Roscommon and Mayo offer a strong mix of affordability, opportunity, and consumer spending power, key ingredients for business growth.”