Finding student accommodation in Cyprus is becoming a difficult equation, as the continuous growth of the student community, the limited availability of organized dormitories and high rents intensify the pressure on students and families.
The president of the Real Estate Agent Registration Council, Marinos Kineyirou, told KYPE that demand is steadily increasing, especially in the period before the start of each academic year, underlining that the timely search for housing is now crucial.
As he mentioned, the areas around universities continue to be among the most active rental markets, with students facing increased competition not only from each other, but also from workers, families and foreigners who move to Cyprus for work.
Limassol remains the most expensive market
The greatest pressures are recorded in Limassol, where rental costs remain among the highest in Cyprus.
According to Mr. Kyneyirou, a one-bedroom apartment can reach up to €1,500 per month, while for two bedrooms the price reaches €2,000. In three-bedroom apartments, the cost can go up to €2,700.
In Nicosia, prices for a one-bedroom apartment range from €600 to €900, while two-bedroom apartments are around 20% – 30% more expensive. For three bedrooms, the maximum price is around €1,700.
Larnaca and Paphos are about the same as Nicosia for one- and two-bedroom apartments. In contrast, in Paralimni, where the student market is smaller, a one-bedroom apartment does not exceed €700, while for two bedrooms the maximum price is estimated at around €900.
"Good and cheaper houses close quickly"
The increased demand is also linked to the expansion of the student community. According to the data cited by the president of the Real Estate Agents Registration Council, enrollments in Higher Education amounted to 57,889 in the academic year 2023 – 2024, increased by 9.4% compared to the previous year.
The limited supply of organized dormitories pushes many students to either look for housing further away from universities, or to choose cohabitation in order to limit costs.
"Early search is very important. The cheapest and best houses close quickly, especially before the academic year begins," said Mr. Kynaigerou.
CUT: Goal guaranteed room for freshmen
CUT is attempting to significantly increase its housing capacity in Limassol and Paphos.
The head of the Studies and Student Welfare Service, Vassilis Protopapas, stated that the goal is to have a guaranteed room within the next one to two years for all first-year students who wish to do so, as well as for those who face financial difficulties.
The university also has a budget of €800,000 per year for rent allowances, while in Limassol and Paphos the plan foresees a total capacity of about 900 rooms.
University of Cyprus: Planning for 900 new beds
The University of Cyprus currently has 208 rooms, which are distributed according to socio-economic criteria and are offered at a rent of approximately €150 per month, including basic bills.
At the same time, there are plans for about 900 new beds. According to the head of the Studies and Student Welfare Service, Kleanthis Pissaridis, the project has been divided into two phases, with the aim of the first 500 beds being available in about three years, if the necessary state approvals are secured.
