Cost of Living in Cyprus 2026: What You'll Actually Spend

Online cost-of-living calculators give you an average. What you need is the number for the lifestyle you are planning, in the city where you are planning to live it. Here is the honest picture for Paphos and Limassol.

For most everyday expenses, Cyprus is materially cheaper than the UK. The gap is widest on rent, restaurants, and healthcare. It is narrower on imported goods, electronics, and cars.

Rent: The Biggest Variable

Paphos remains noticeably cheaper than Limassol and has a large, well-established British and European expat community. Limassol is Cyprus's financial and business hub, with rents reflecting demand from the corporate and fintech sectors. Both cities have a good range of rental property across all budget levels.

Everyday Spending

Local supermarkets are well priced. Dining out at a local taverna is affordable. Utilities are low in winter but air conditioning from June to September pushes electricity costs up significantly. A car is essential outside Nicosia as public transport is limited.

GESY healthcare is funded by a contribution percentage on your income. For most expats this is a low annual cost that covers access to GPs, specialists, hospitals and emergency care.

What Costs More Than the UK

New cars carry a registration tax in Cyprus. Electronics and branded goods are priced at or above UK levels. Private English-language school fees are lower than comparable UK private schools but are still a meaningful cost for families. Broadband is reliable but slightly more expensive than the UK average.

The Tax Difference

The cost-of-living saving is real. But for most people moving to Cyprus, the bigger financial change is on tax. Cyprus corporate tax is 15%. Non-dom status gives 0% on dividend and interest income for up to 17 years. There is no capital gains tax on shares. For anyone drawing income from a company or investments, the annual saving often outweighs all living cost differences combined.