Student housing prices across Cyprus have risen sharply, as demand far exceeds supply and public universities struggle to offer enough dormitory beds, according to the Pancyprian Federation of Student Unions (POFEN).
The University of Cyprus (UCY) currently provides 208 dormitory beds in Aglantzia, and TEPAK (Cyprus University of Technology) offers 250 in Limassol. An additional 250 beds in Limassol are owned by the Archbishopric, with a portion allocated to Frederick University students. Paphos hosts 150 beds for TEPAK students. However, these beds largely cater to first-year students, who are given priority due to the limited availability.
Limited dorms, soaring rent
POFEN President Konstantinos Karseras told CNA that rental supply in Limassol has dropped compared to growing demand, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic.
Despite construction projects for new student housing in both Nicosia and Limassol, Karseras said the current situation remains “disappointing”. Delays in UCY’s dormitory project have been a particular concern. A cancelled tender has raised questions about when the beds will be ready. “We’re sending letters and asking for explanations. So far, there’s no clear timeline,” he said.
In contrast, TEPAK’s housing expansion appears more promising. According to Karseras, 300 new dorm beds are expected by October 2026. However, these plans are based on 2020 data, and new academic programmes at TEPAK have since increased demand. “Three new programmes have added about 100 new students, expected to grow to 400,” he said.
Currently, TEPAK offers a rent subsidy of €2,500 for the academic year (10 months) to students with socioeconomic needs, and the Limassol Metropolis provides one free meal daily. Both UCY and TEPAK also run student welfare societies that offer annual scholarships.
Summary of key monthly rental rates across Cyprus
| City | Type | Monthly Rent (€) |
|---|---|---|
| Limassol | Studio (TEPAK dorm) | 300 |
| 1-bedroom (private) | 600–880 | |
| 2-bedroom (private) | 1,100–1,300 | |
| 3-bedroom (private) | 1,300–1,500 | |
| Paphos | Subsidised studio | 350 |
| Non-subsidised studio | 550 | |
| 1-bedroom (private) | 600–700 | |
| 2-bedroom (private) | 750–1,000 | |
| 3-bedroom (private) | 1,100–1,500 | |
| Nicosia | Studio (private) | 500–650 |
| 1-bedroom (private) | 500–700 | |
| 2-bedroom (private) | 650–750 | |
| UCY dorm bed | 180 | |
| Engomi | Dorm (private universities) | 700–800 (incl. utilities) |
| 1-bedroom (private) | 700–800 (excl. utilities) |
While new dormitory construction is underway, thousands of students remain affected by unaffordable housing, limited dorm capacity, and high private rental costs. POFEN is pushing for faster progress, better planning, and expanded student support, including more rent subsidies and wider availability of university partnerships with the private sector.
Until dorm capacity catches up, students — especially newcomers — will continue to face serious housing pressure during the academic year.
Adapted from: CNA
Feature photo source: TheMayor.EU
Also read: Building permits in Cyprus fall by 15.2% in 2025
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