Cyprus is becoming increasingly concentrated in its urban centres, with the countryside steadily abandoned. Urbanisation in Cyprus continues to intensify, as highlighted by the 2021 census figures, which remain relevant today: population ageing, deserted villages, and widening inequality in development.
Overconcentration in cities: pressure on infrastructure
Speaking on Sigma’s Mesimeri kai Kati, Constantinos Konstantis, President of ETEK, stressed that the concentration of activity in cities is putting immense pressure on infrastructure, worsening traffic congestion, and sending property prices soaring. Meanwhile, rural areas face the decline of farming and livestock, desertification, and heightened wildfire risks.
To reverse the trend, he highlighted the need for equal access to healthcare, education, and employment. He proposed lower taxation for businesses in rural areas, support for youth entrepreneurship, and housing policies that would encourage people to stay in or move to villages.
Housing market a ‘broken dream’
Marinos Kineyirou, President of the Council for the Registration of Real Estate Agents, pointed to young people’s frustration over rents and the soaring cost of living in cities. He argued that in Cyprus urbanisation continues unchecked while the state fails to take meaningful action. Instead, legislative barriers prevent landowners in villages from developing their plots, forcing them towards cities, where even renting a modest two-bedroom flat has become a luxury.
At the same time, rural services are shrinking. Schools are closing, infrastructure is deteriorating, and recurring wildfires make owning a country or holiday home increasingly precarious. Many houses remain abandoned, with no state support to revive them.
Detached homes giving way to flats
According to the Statistical Service, Cypriots traditionally prefer detached homes as their main form of housing. However, the sharp rise in construction costs is pushing more people towards apartments, a shift that brings new challenges.
Mr Konstantinou suggested encouraging local energy communities, with each village running its own solar park. He also stressed the need to upgrade digital connectivity, road networks, and public transport.
Incentives needed for rural areas
Mr Kineyirou concluded by saying that the investment and development relaxations currently granted in cities should also be extended to rural areas, to support landowners and provide real incentives for development and countryside revival.
Also read: Housing for young people a priority, President affirms
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