Prices in Cyprus in 2024

Prices in Cyprus in 2024 remain one of the key factors influencing the choice of the country for living, working, and vacationing. The island attracts both tourists and those considering relocation or long-term stays. From the cost of food and transportation to real estate and utility prices, all these elements play a crucial role in understanding the standard of living in Cyprus. This review will explore the cost of living on the island across various aspects, such as groceries, transport, clothing, real estate, education, medical services, utilities, and travel.

Grocery Prices

In 2024, food prices in Cyprus may vary depending on the type of product, place of purchase, and season. For example, fruits and vegetables can be significantly cheaper in season, especially if they are local products. In fact, local fruits and vegetables are cheaper to buy at farmer’s markets.

In supermarkets, apples, for instance, cost around €2.5 per kilogram, bananas range from €1.5 to €2, and oranges are priced between €1.8 and €2.3 per kilogram. Potatoes cost approximately €1–€1.2 per kilogram, while tomatoes are around €2.3–€2.5 per kilogram. During the season, prices for local products, such as citrus fruits, can be noticeably lower.

Meat and fish are available in both supermarkets and markets. Chicken fillet costs around €6–€8 per kilogram, pork is priced at €7–€9, and beef ranges from €9 to €12 per kilogram. Fish, especially sea varieties, are popular among both locals and tourists. For example, sea bass or dorado costs between €8 and €14 per kilogram.

Dairy products are also widely available and affordable. A liter of milk costs about €1.5–€1.6, and eggs (12 pieces) are priced at €3–€4. The traditional Cypriot cheese, halloumi, is a favorite dish on the island, and its price varies from €8 to €12 per kilogram.

Bread and grains are staples in the daily diet. A 500-gram loaf of bread costs about €1.5–€2. Rice is priced at around €1.5–€2.5 per kilogram.

Alcoholic beverages in Cyprus are somewhat more expensive compared to Eastern Europe. A 0.5-liter bottle of local beer costs around €1.1–€1.5, imported beer is about €2 for 0.33 liters. A bottle of mid-range wine costs between €6 and €10, while the local vodka (Zivania) is about €10–€12 per bottle.

Several large supermarket chains operate in Cyprus, where you can buy groceries. One of the most popular chains is “Alphamega,” which is present in major cities. It offers both local and imported products, as well as a wide range of goods. The “Lidl” chain is also widespread on the island and offers more affordable products, especially during seasonal promotions and discounts. “Sklavenitis” and “Metro” are other popular chains among locals. Prices in these supermarkets vary, but you can find both budget and premium products.

Transportation Costs

Prices vary depending on the type of transport you use. The main modes of transport are buses, taxis, and personal vehicles. The island does not have a railway system, nor is there a metro.

Public Transport

Buses are the main form of public transport connecting major cities and regions in Cyprus. Ticket prices are moderate:

• A single bus ticket costs about €2.
• A monthly bus pass is around €40.

Bus services are well-developed in cities like Limassol, Larnaca, Nicosia, and Paphos. However, in rural areas and smaller towns, bus services are less frequent.

Taxis

Taxis are also popular among tourists and locals in Cyprus. However, taxis are more expensive than buses:

• The starting fare for a taxi is around €5.
• The cost per kilometer is about €2.
• Waiting time (e.g., if you need to make a stop) costs around €30 per hour.

Taxis are available in most major cities and tourist areas, though prices may vary depending on the time of day and demand.

Car Rentals

Car rental in Cyprus is a popular mode of transportation among tourists. It allows for freedom of movement around the island and the opportunity to explore its attractions. The average cost of renting a mid-range car, such as a Volkswagen Golf or Toyota Corolla, ranges from €20 to €35 per day. To rent a car, you must have an international driver’s license and follow the left-hand driving system in place in Cyprus.

Fuel Costs

Gasoline in Cyprus costs approximately €1.4–€1.6 per liter, which is comparable to prices in mainland Europe. This makes car rental an affordable option for most tourists and residents.

Thus, transportation in Cyprus is relatively affordable, especially public transport. However, for those planning to travel extensively around the island, renting a car can be a good solution.

Clothing Prices

Clothing prices in Cyprus in 2024 are generally comparable to prices in other European countries. Clothing and footwear are sold both in international chain stores and local boutiques.

Approximate prices for clothing:

• Jeans (Levis or similar): around €85–€110. These brands can be found in large shopping centers and specialized stores.
• Summer dress in chain stores (Zara, H&M, and others): around €50–€65.
• Mid-range sneakers (e.g., Adidas): around €85–€120.
• Men’s leather business shoes: from €100 to €130.

Local shops also offer affordable casual wear, and mid-range brands are popular in tourist areas. During sales periods, significant discounts can be found, especially in chain stores.

There are also outlet stores in Cyprus where you can purchase branded items at reduced prices, as well as markets offering more budget-friendly clothing options.

Utility Costs

Utility costs in Cyprus in 2024 include payments for electricity, water, gas (for heating in winter and gas stoves in kitchens), internet, and mobile services. The average monthly expenses for utilities for an 85 m² apartment are about €90–€170, depending on the season and consumption levels.

Main utility expenses:

• Electricity and water for a mid-sized apartment: around €100–€180 per month. In the summer, when air conditioning is frequently used, electricity bills may be higher, while in winter, heating costs can increase.
• Internet (unlimited, 100 Mbps or higher): around €30–€35 per month.
• Mobile service (with a plan that includes calls and mobile internet): from €10 per month.

Utility bills make up about 7% of the total monthly housing expenses, which is relatively affordable compared to other European countries.

Real Estate Prices

Real estate prices in Cyprus in 2024 vary depending on the city, area, and type of property. On average, apartment prices in central areas are higher than in the outskirts.

Renting Property

• A one-bedroom apartment in the city center or near the sea costs around €800–€1600 per month. For instance, rent in Limassol is more expensive than in Larnaca or Paphos.
• A one-bedroom apartment outside the city center or away from the sea will cost €600–€1000 per month.
• A three-bedroom apartment in the city center or near the sea can cost €1500–€2500 per month, depending on location and apartment conditions.

Purchasing Property

• The cost per square meter in the city center is around €2000–€3000, depending on the city. Limassol and Nicosia are considered the most expensive for purchasing property.
• The cost per square meter on the outskirts ranges from €1400 to €1900. For example, in Larnaca and Paphos, properties on the outskirts will be cheaper than in Limassol.

The real estate market in Cyprus in 2024 is active, especially in tourist and coastal areas, where there is high demand for apartments and villas.

Education Costs

Education costs in Cyprus in 2024 vary depending on the type of institution, level of education, and its prestige. There are several main categories to consider: kindergartens, schools, and higher education.

Kindergartens and preschools

Private kindergartens and preschools in Cyprus are highly popular among both local and foreign families. The cost varies depending on the preschool and location:

• Full-day care in a private kindergarten costs around €500–€700 per month.
• In more expensive private kindergartens, the fees can reach up to €1,000 per month.

Schools

Public Greek schools in Cyprus are free for all children, including foreigners, but many expats prefer private Russian-speaking or English schools. The average prices for private education are:

• Monthly tuition fees in a private Russian-speaking school are around €450–€600.
• Annual tuition fees at a private English school can range from €5,500 to €15,500, depending on the school and its level of prestige.

Higher Education

Cyprus attracts students from all over the world due to the affordability of higher education and the availability of English-language programs. Public universities offer relatively low tuition fees for both residents and foreign students:

• Tuition at public universities for EU citizens may cost around €3,500–€4,000 per year.
• For students from non-EU countries, tuition fees can range from €5,000 to €10,000 per year, depending on the program and university.
• Private universities and institutes may charge up to €10,000–€15,000 per year for specialized programs such as an MBA or medical education.

Additional Costs

In addition to tuition fees, students should consider expenses for study materials, transportation, and accommodation. On average, students need about €900–€1,500 per month for living expenses, including rent, food, and other daily necessities.

Healthcare Costs

Healthcare services in Cyprus are provided by both public and private clinics. Prices in private institutions can be quite high, but the quality of care meets European standards.

• A visit to a general practitioner costs around €50 per consultation. Such services are often provided quickly, with little waiting time.
• Dental services are also popular, though they may not always be covered by standard health insurance. For example, a tooth filling costs from €50, and tooth extraction ranges from €70 to €300, depending on the complexity of the procedure.
• More complex procedures, such as dental implants, can cost around €800, including materials and the dentist’s work.
• If hospitalization is required, a day in a private clinic without medication costs around €150–€200. For example, childbirth in a private clinic may cost €2,000–€3,000, including a few days of stay.

Beauty and Wellness Services

The cost of beauty and wellness services can vary depending on the level of the salon and the city, but in general, they are comparable to European prices.

• A haircut and styling at a hair salon cost around €30. Hair coloring prices start at €50.
• Specialized services such as eyebrow shaping cost approximately €30, while professional makeup starts at €50.
• For facial and body treatments, a 60-minute massage costs between €40 and €70. In prestigious spa salons, prices may be higher.

Travel Costs

Travel prices from Cyprus in 2024 depend on the destination, time of year, and type of transportation. The main routes that residents and tourists choose for travel from the island include Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. The primary modes of transport are flights, cruises, and ferries.

Flights

Cyprus has two international airports, in Larnaca and Paphos. Air travel is the main mode of transport for tourists and locals, and airfare can vary depending on the destination and season.

• Flights to Europe: Tickets for a direct flight from Larnaca to Athens start from €20 one way, while flights to London can cost from €40.
• Flights to the Middle East: Trips to cities like Tel Aviv or Dubai may range from €30 to €150 one way.
• Intercontinental Flights: Flights to the USA or Asia are significantly more expensive, with one-way tickets starting from €300 or more, depending on the time of year.

Airfare is highly dependent on the season: prices usually increase during the summer and holiday periods.

Sea Travel

For those who enjoy sea travel, Cyprus offers ferries and cruises departing to nearby countries and cities:

• Ferries: Ferry services between Cyprus and Greece (Port of Piraeus) or Israel offer a convenient way to travel by sea. Tickets for the ferry from Limassol to Piraeus cost around €100–€150 per person one way.
• Cruises: Regular cruises depart from Limassol, sailing around the Mediterranean with stops in Greece, Turkey, Italy, and other countries. The cost of such cruises starts from €500 for several days.

Traveling from Cyprus is an affordable way to explore neighboring countries, especially if you plan your trips in advance and take advantage of discounts on flights and cruises.

Living in Cyprus in 2024 remains affordable, though prices can vary depending on location and specific needs. Food and utility costs are moderate, but real estate rental can be more expensive, especially in popular tourist areas. However, the island offers a variety of options for living and leisure, making it attractive to those seeking comfort and quality of life. Whether for travel or relocation, planning your expenses can help you manage your budget efficiently.