The issue of affordable housing in Paphos has now reached crisis point. Mayor Fedonas Fedonos has once again highlighted that rents in the region have reached record levels while the supply of properties on the market is dwindling. This is particularly problematic for students and workers earning €1,000–1,500 per month.
Prices are rising and housing is becoming scarcer
According to Mr Fedonos, rents in Paphos have risen so much over the past two years that even those who can afford it have found it extremely difficult to find an apartment. It is not uncommon for former shops and basements to be illegally converted into living quarters. In such 'apartments', which do not meet normal conditions, 10–12 people are housed, each paying around €150 per month. As a result, the owners receive up to €1,500 per property, whereas under normal circumstances, they would not rent out a property for even €300.
Fedonos emphasised that the problem is systemic: even the 203-room student dormitory that opened in Paphos last year is fully occupied, and new accommodation is needed immediately.
Municipal projects and state strategy
To alleviate the crisis, the municipality has begun converting vacant buildings in the city centre into inexpensive hostels and dormitories. In the coming days, 22 rooms are set to be made available to rent, with this number set to increase to 40 by the end of the year. The cost of accommodation is €150 per month, including utilities and internet access.
However, as the mayor noted, local measures alone will not solve the problem. To stabilise the situation, it is necessary to build at least 500 student dormitories on a large scale and to develop a state social housing programme accessible to low-income workers.
Forecast: demand will grow
The situation is further complicated by the fact that Cyprus remains an attractive destination for foreign students, IT specialists and tourism workers. According to experts, demand for rentals in Paphos will continue to grow in 2025, inevitably pushing prices even higher.
The mayor expressed concern that, without urgent joint action by the state and the municipality, young people and skilled workers would be forced to leave the city or commute daily from remote areas, which would have a negative impact on the region's economy.