In recent years, finding housing for students in Cyprus has become one of the most pressing issues. According to the Cyprus Federation of Student Unions (POFEN), the cost of apartments and rooms in university towns has continued to rise while the number of dormitory spaces has remained extremely limited.
The shortage of dormitories and construction plans
State universities mainly provide housing for first-year students. The University of Cyprus in Nicosia has only 208 rooms, while the Technological Education Institute of Paphos (TEPAK) in Limassol has 250. The Archdiocese provides an additional 250 beds. In Paphos, local students can only count on 150 spots. However, this is clearly insufficient, especially considering the growth in the number of programs of study and the influx of students.
According to POFEN head Constantinos Karceras, new dormitories are under construction in Limassol and Nicosia. This offers hope for positive change. However, we will have to wait 1.5 to 2 years for the new dorm rooms to be ready. For instance, the first 300 new rooms in Limassol are scheduled for completion in October 2026. Meanwhile, the number of programs and students at local universities is constantly increasing.
How much will student housing cost in 2025?
Until the new TEPAK dormitories in Limassol are completed, students who meet certain socio-economic criteria are paid a rental subsidy of €250 per month. Additionally, the local diocese provides free meals daily, and scholarships are available for those in need.
The rest must rent apartments from private landlords. Currently, the monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Limassol ranges from €600 to €880; a two-bedroom apartment ranges from €1,100 to €1,300; and a three-bedroom apartment ranges up to €1,500. In Paphos, prices are slightly lower, reaching up to €700 for a one-bedroom and up to €1,000 for a two-bedroom.
In Nicosia, near the University of Cyprus, the rent for a one-bedroom apartment is up to €700, a studio is around €650, and a two-bedroom is around €750. In the Engomi area, where private universities are located, prices are significantly higher. A room in a dormitory costs up to €800 per month, utilities included. Private apartments cost the same, but utilities are not included.
Students look for accommodations and share expenses
To make searching easier, POFEN runs a special Facebook group where people post ads for available apartments and opportunities to move in with others. Over the past two years, this service has helped more than 500 students find affordable housing. Experience shows that senior students are more likely to find apartments for around €400 per month, while first-year students face the greatest difficulties.
If prices continue to rise, students will increasingly look for housing outside major cities in the coming years. Universities will then need to speed up construction of new dormitories to provide affordable housing for all.