What are the real living expenses in Cyprus in 2023?

General characteristics of expenditures in Cyprus

Life in Cyprus is characterized by relatively low costs for everyday needs compared to several Western European countries and major Russian cities. However, it should be noted that in Limassol, the second largest city on the island, the cost of living is significantly higher than in other towns. This city is not only an important economic and cultural center but also a popular tourist destination.

Impact of the financial crisis

The Cypriot economy was hit hard during the financial crisis of 2013, leaving a noticeable impact on the living standards of the local population. Following the introduction of various EU measures and wage cuts, many residents were faced with increased expenses. In the current economic climate, Cyprus remains attractive mainly to citizens of countries with a high standard of living.

Price fluctuations

Price fluctuations in Cyprus also depend on where you shop. For example, in resort towns such as Limassol, Larnaca, Paphos and Ayia Napa, prices differ markedly from those in other parts of the country. Nicosia, the capital of Cyprus, on the contrary, does not arouse interest among foreign tourists due to the lack of beaches and the presence of division into two sections. Prices here are also comparable to those seen in major Russian cities.

Limassol: cost of living

Limassol, being the most popular destination among Russians, but also the most expensive city in Cyprus. According to a study conducted by Insider Magazine in 2021, the main factor contributing to the high cost of living was high rents and housing prices. Excluding housing costs, the average monthly cost for a family of four in Limassol is about:

• 2620 eurosin Limassol
• 2617 eurosin Nicosia
• 2410 eurosin Larnaca
• 2090 eurosin Paphos

Expenditure analysis

During the study, the following expense items were analyzed:

• restaurant expenses
• shopping in supermarkets
• utility bills
• transportation costs
• expenses on sports and entertainment
• school and kindergarten education

Prices for groceries

As for food prices, they are not particularly cheap compared to other countries in the European Union. The prices of food products depend on the location of the stores, their proximity to tourist areas, and the season. For example, food in popular resort areas is more expensive than in places that are far from them.

Conclusion

Thus, the cost of living in Cyprus is influenced by a variety of factors, and the level of expenses can vary depending on the region and the lifestyle of the local population.

General information about prices in Cyprus

In Cypriot supermarkets, shoppers are greeted with a variety of high-quality products, which is always a delight. Many note that pork is relatively inexpensive on the island, costing around 2.5 euros per kilogram. However, prices for seafood are generally significantly higher. Prices for fruits and vegetables vary depending on the season and the amount of the harvest.

Staple foods

• A liter of milk is about 1.5 euros;
• Bread – from 1 euro;
• A dozen eggs costs about 3 euros.
• Cheese – from 3 to 12 euros per kilogram;
• Vegetables and fruits (apples, oranges, tomatoes, potatoes) - 1-2 euros per kilogram;
• A bottle of water (1.5 liters) – about 0.5 euros;
• A kilogram of rice costs about 2 euros;
• Imported beer (0.33 L) – 1.5 euros;
• Local beer (half a liter) – 1 euro;
• Local wines (Aphrodite, Othello, Thisby) are about 5 euros a bottle;
• A pack of Marlboro cigarettes costs about 4.5 euros, while local cigarettes are 2.7 euros.

Alcoholic beverages in restaurants

When it comes to alcoholic beverages in a restaurant or bar, a half-liter bottle of beer (both locally produced and imported) is usually priced at €2.5. A glass of wine will cost €2.2, and a quality local brandy can be purchased for around €2.5. Expect the bill for lunch for two, including main course, side dish, dessert and wine, to be around €40-50.

Clothing and entertainment

When it comes to fashionable clothing and entertainment, it's easy to find products from both popular and elite brands in Cyprus. Here are some approximate prices for certain items:

• A regular sweater – 25 euros;
• Shorts - 15 euros;
• Jeans are about 70 euros;
• A summer dress – about 35 euros;
• Sneakers - about 70 euros.

To find better deals, you can visit Ledra pedestrian street in the old part of Nicosia. Designer items are better sought on Makarios Avenue, which is also located in Nicosia.

Sports clubs and leisure activities

Prices for gym memberships start at around 50 euros per month. An annual subscription to the club's services can range from 550 to 640 euros. Access to the pool, sauna, steam room, and jacuzzi can cost between 75-85 euros per person per month or about 650-790 euros per year. If you need a membership that covers all the fitness club services, including group classes, free trial workouts with instructors, access to the gym, as well as the sauna and pool, you will have to pay between 80 to 95 euros per month.

• The cost of renting a tennis court for an hour is about 11 euros.
• Movie tickets cost 8 euros.

Mobile communication and the internet

The cost of local mobile services is 0.09 euros per minute, and unlimited internet will cost at least 30 euros per month.

Housing rental

Regarding rental housing, the average cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is about 500 euros per month. Those planning to rent a two-bedroom apartment in Limassol long-term should expect monthly expenses starting from 600 euros.

Rental properties in Paphos and Limassol

In Paphos, the rental price for similar apartments starts at 400 euros per month, while the long-term rental of a three-bedroom house with a private pool often starts at 800 euros. Prices for short-term accommodation in Cyprus's resort areas range from 30 to 150 euros per day, depending on factors such as the area, living comfort, and distance to the beach.

For example, during the high season, renting a two-bedroom apartment in Paphos costs around 90 euros, while in Limassol, prices range from 100 to 110 euros per night. When it comes to villas located right by the sea in Limassol, their rental will cost between 200 and 250 euros per day.

The property management system in Cyprus

The Cypriot real estate management system has its important features compared to other European countries, including the absence of an annual property tax.

Adaptation to driving in Cyprus

In Cyprus, you can quickly adapt to the driving peculiarities, but it's important to get used to shifting gears with your left hand. We strongly recommend considering renting a car with an automatic transmission.

Car rental prices

Prices for rental vehicles on the island are varied:

• The cost of renting cars with manual transmission starts at approximately15 eurosa day.
• Renting a car with an automatic transmission will cost around25-35 euros.
• If you want to rent an SUV, be prepared for a price of around60 eurosin 24 hours.
• Cabriolets start from90 eurosand may exceed that amount.

Education in Cyprus

As for the education system in Cyprus, this island occupies43rd placeamong188 countriesaccording to the annual education level index published by the UN. At the same time, the republic stands out on10th positionin terms of national investments in the education sector.

Preschool education

Pre-school education is not compulsory but is available for children up to the age of five. Different types of kindergartens can be found in Cyprus:

• state;
• community-based (operating on parental contributions);
• private.

Private kindergartens where instruction is conducted in English start at200 to 300 eurosper month. In Limassol, there is also a Russian kindergarten, the cost of which is about150-200 eurosper month, including four meals a day and stationery.

School education

School education in Cyprus is offered in both free public and private institutions. Private schools can be found in major cities such as Paphos, Nicosia, Limassol, and Larnaca; however, curricula and the quality of education can vary significantly.

Tuition at popular international schools ranges from4000 to 7000 eurosper year, and for high school students, the cost can reach13000 eurosInterestingly, approximately20%Students in these educational institutions speak Russian.

Universities in Cyprus

Cyprus stands out in education.7 universitiesfrom which4 privateand3 state-ownedMost universities are concentrated in Nicosia, where there are5 educational institutionsFor foreign students, higher education is even paid in public universities.

The prices for education vary depending on the institution and program, starting from3000 to 8000 eurosper year. It is also important to consider additional expenses for textbooks and materials, which can amount to400 to 500 eurosper year.

Medical care

Focusing on the field of medicine, Cyprus stands out among other European Union countries as the cost of medical services is generally lower. It is important to note that in the republic, only primary medical education can be obtained, which is why many local doctors undergo internships and practice in medical institutions abroad.

The prices for medical services are comparable to those in major Russian cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg. For example:

• The consultation with the doctor will cost50 euros.
• A day in the hospital can cost from150 to 200 euros.
• The treatment of one tooth varies from100 to 200 euros.

Additionally, it should be noted that emergency medical assistance is provided to all citizens and tourists free of charge, which makes Cyprus a more attractive destination for travelers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, considering the economic situation in Cyprus and the cost of living in various aspects of life, I realize that this may cause some disappointment for those dreaming of a carefree life on this picturesque island. Despite the beauty of nature and the climatic advantages, everyday expenses here can be significantly higher than expected.

That's why it's important to consider all the nuances, such as location, the specifics of resort areas, and the overall economic conditions in the country.

Economic upheavals

Cyprus has experienced significant economic upheavals, which have affected the standard of living. Being here, especially in popular cities like Limassol and Nicosia, can be quite expensive, particularly when considering the costs of rent and groceries. Moreover, while prices for certain goods are higher,product qualitycan pleasantly surprise.

• The rental prices in Limassol are significantly higher than in other cities.
• The food products in supermarkets are of high quality.
• Many products can be found cheaper in less touristy areas.

Recommendations for moving

For those considering Cyprus as a permanent place of residence, I recommend carefully examining various aspects of expenses and listening to local advice. Ultimately,planningAnd preliminary research will help better prepare for life in Cyprus, so that this island becomes not just a vacation spot, but a cozy home.

Final thoughts

I hope that my article has provided useful information, and I wish everyone who is planning to visit or move to this magical island good luck in your plans and endeavors. Remember that health and happiness are the highest values that cannot be measured in monetary terms. I wish you good luck in your travels and ventures!