Cost of Living in Cyprus

The Republic of Cyprus is the third largest islandic country on the Mediterranean Sea, with Nicosia as its capital. Based on its geography, it’s in Asia, but by virtue of politics, it is regarded as an European country, and thus, a member nation of the European Union. Over time it has become, one of the favourite study-abroad destinations because of its increasing quality of education, easy admission requirements, and low cost of living compared to other countries in Europe.

It is home to many foreign Nationals, hence culturally diverse. The standard of living is high, with top notch security, and great health care provision. It is a very beautiful country, with a gorgeous landscape and conducive environment which makes for great studying, and a lifestyle upgrade. Currently, over 60,000 students representing over 130 countries study in one of Cyprus’ 12 main universities.

Studying in Cyprus

Cyprus is so particular about the quality of education they provide, so much so that they spend a large percentage of their Gross Domestic Profit, GDp on improving their education sector. This is evident in the graduates they train, the quality of facilities used in training them, as well as the methods employed in their training.

It’s no wonder that so many students flock there, even those from developed countries as they are able to study for cheaper, and earn high quality degrees. They have so many partnerships, and collaborations with other countries to ensure their quality of education is standard, and that the degree(s) you acquire can you be used anywhere in the world.

Just like all other places, the cost of study is dependent on the school, course of study, and level. On an average, the cost of undergraduate study in a public university is €3000-5500, and €5000-12000 for Masters. PHD studies cost about €2000-10000. Studying Pharmacy in Cyprus is considerably more expensive than other courses, with it costing over €4500 per year. The admission requirements are also straightforward and undemanding. Expect private universities to cost a little more.

There are two semesters per year: autumn semester, from September to December, and spring semester, from January to April, with all courses are taught in English. After your application has been received, and all your documents looked through, the university if satisfied will grant you a conditional offer letter. You are then required to pay your fees, after which a visa will be issued and you can commence travel preparations.

If work and study is something you’re interested in, then you’ll be glad to know international students are allowed to work for up to 20 hours per week, once they have stayed for over six months in the country. When school isn’t in session, the hours could go as high as 38 hours. You must however have proof of studentship.

Living in Cyprus

This is one of the best places to live in Europe as you’re guaranteed high standard of living at affordable costs. This is because the Republic of Cyrus banks on tourism and education to earn, so they constantly better things so more people can be accommodated. Living costs are always dependent on a person and their lifestyle, but overall, the prices are fair.

Things to look into are accommodation, transportation, food, utilities, and perhaps, one or two tourist visits to enjoy the ambience provided by this beautiful country. So, on an average, you’ll spend anywhere from €300 to €700 monthly, if you don’t go all out on tours or getaways meant to explore the country.

Feeding, transportation, and accommodation options are diverse, so you’re bound to find something that’s fair enough for you. Health Insurance is compulsory, but only provided to permanent residents. If you’re staying temporarily, either as an EU or Non-EU national, you’ll be provided with state healthcare, and ineligible to apply for a medical card.

If you’re ever in an emergency, you could call 112 which is the Universal number, or 199 to reach the ambulance, police and fire service.

Accommodation

Where you choose to live always determines how much money you’d need, but rest assured that whatever you choose, you’ll be getting a fair price for quality housing. The closer you’re to the cities, especially those with shopping centres, the more you have to pay for rent, and vice versa. Limassol is the most expensive city to live in, while Paphos is the cheapest, followed by Larnaca. The capital city of Nicosia is similar to Limassol when it comes to cost of living.

Student Accommodation: there is available accommodation for students both on and off campus. Off-campus accommodation can be shared, with you paying your monthly rent upfront. You’re also expected to cater for your electricity and water costs. If you’d be staying on campus, then you can choose either a single room, or a double room and share with a fellow student. The necessary facilities will be provided to ensure your comfort.

On an average, these are the accommodation costs –

One bedroom in City centre: €580

One bedroom outside City centre: €450

Two-bedroom apartment (furnished): £590-700

Two-bedroom apartment (unfurnished): £550-630

Three bedrooms in City centre: €1000

Three bedrooms outside City centre: €800

Transportation

Transportation in Cyprus is limited to taxies, buses and ferries, as the rail system hasn’t functioned in so long.

The buses are divided into: rural – running in small villages and connecting people to the towns; inter-urban – connecting people between towns; and urban – running in the big cities. You can purchase a weekly or monthly pass at the ticket office. Travelling by bus is so affordable, as it’s free for children below 6, and at half price for you as a student of a Cyprus university. Monthly pass is about €40, with a one-way ticket costing about €1.50.

The taxis are metered, with normal tarrif at about €5, while per km costs about €1. You can always book your taxi in advance, or right there on the streets. Just like the buses, these private and shared taxis can be grouped into rural (only ones without meters), inter-urban, and urban taxis.

If you own a private car, it affords you ease of movement. Petrol price is very fair at about €1.3. There are also airport shuffle services which come in handy when you need to navigate to/from the airport.

Food

Food is generally cheap, and mostly the same everywhere. Be it restaurant dining, or grocery shopping for your own cooking, you can bet that the prices are very pocket friendly.

Restaurant

Affordability is a huge point here, along with a variety of cuisines and drinks. You could eat at a regular restaurant for about €15, or share a meal with a friend at a mid restaurant for €40. There are so many bars and restaurants to ensure you have an option that fits. You could get a Big Mac for €6, beers at €2.5-3 per pint, nice wines at €2.3 per glass, etc.

Grocery Shopping

Eating out on a regular isn’t feasible, so grocery shopping is a great idea to save costs. Some examples include:

50cl water bottle: €0.70

Dozen eggs: €2.50-2.70

1 liter milk: €1.30-1.35

Loaf of bread: €1.40-1.43

Per kg,

Rice: €1.44-1.60

Local cheese: €7.80

Bananas: €1.35

Potatoes: €0.80

Oranges: €1.25

Chicken breast: €7-7.50

Beef meat: €8.95

Apples: €1.80

Tomatoes: €1.90

Onions: €0.75-0.85

Other Expenditures

Utility bills (electricity, water, gas,etc): €120

Monthly internet connection bill: €40-50

Rate per mobile call: £0.10

Monthly gym membership: €50

Cinema ticket one seat: 9 Euros

This post has been written to prepare you for your expenditures in Cyprus. The prices are fair and so much more affordable compared to many countries in Europe. We wish you the best of luck as you apply, and get ready to move to Cyprus.