What is it like to live in Cyprus as an expat?

Living in Cyprus (Republic of Cyprus)

The Republic is an officially recognized country, a member of the European Union.

It has a more dynamic economy, more inclusive facilities, and several double tax treaties with a range of countries around the world (including the UK). All this makes tax matters much simpler for individuals and businesses.

Living in Northern Cyprus (TRNC)

The main advantage of living in North Cyprus is getting all the benefits of a Mediterranean lifestyle at a very tempting price. In fact, in Northern Cyprus, your budget can be much more adequate than in other retirement destinations.

Given that the northern part of the island is only recognized by Turkey, it is not as economically strong as southern Cyprus and continues to suffer from sanctions. However, the cost of living and property in Northern Cyprus is much lower than in most European countries.

Many retirees abroad take advantage of this and settle in the northern part of Cyprus to increase their retirement income even more.

The northern part of the island is also undoubtedly the most beautiful part of Cyprus, with its dramatic Crusader castles, whitewashed colonial villages and miles of unspoiled and pristine sandy beaches.

Cost of living in Northern Cyprus

Northern Cyprus is definitely one of the least expensive countries to live in along the Mediterranean coast. It's a really good choice compared to the cost of living in the UK, although it's gradually increasing due to the influx of tourists and overseas residents. You will find that buying and renting property is much cheaper than anywhere else in the Mediterranean.

If you shop at local fruit and vegetable markets, you'll be surprised how much your purchases can add up. However, imported products are expensive because they can only be delivered through Turkey and are subject to heavy taxes.

Eating out is also cheap, especially if you can find small local pubs away from the tourist areas.

You can have almost any level of lifestyle you want on the island - depending on how much disposable income you have!

For example, if you have a Megabook, you can have everything from a personal gym to a cinema in your home – and of course the ubiquitous swimming pool, even in the garden, which you can spend at least 8 months of the year. Use it easily.

There are cinemas, clubs, cafes, an incredible array of restaurants catering for all tastes and all budgets for those living in North Cyprus. There are casinos, discos, associations and sports clubs, public gyms, spas and beach clubs.

In addition, since the average local salary is relatively modest, the cost of living well in the north can be easily within your reach.

You can access internationally trained doctors and dentists in North Cyprus by speaking English – and the private fees to see the best doctors are not too high.

You can educate your children in an international school - the cost of education for students in Cyprus is free. For example, Kyrenia English School is accredited according to the standard of British schools and courses.

In Cyprus you can also shop at a supermarket where the shelves are stocked with international products – or of course, you can save a lot of cash and shop at the weekly markets around the country.

You can sunbathe for free 9 months of the year, never get tired of blue skies and beaches. You will find that your Cypriot neighbors are more welcoming, and there are many expats who call North Cyprus home.