Student apartment prices in all Cypriot cities have surged, with the shortage of university dorm beds becoming increasingly evident, according to the Cyprus News Agency (CNA) and representatives of the Pancyprian Federation of Student Unions (POFEN).

Currently, the University of Cyprus offers 208 beds in Aglantzia, while in Limassol, the Cyprus University of Technology (CUT) provides 250 beds. An additional 250 beds in Limassol are operated by the Archbishopric, part of which are also available to students from the private Frederick University. In Paphos, 150 beds are allocated for CUT students.

However, POFEN representatives note that these beds primarily cater to first-year students, who are given priority.

Accommodation Shortages and Rising Demand

POFEN President Konstantinos Karseras stated that the supply of apartments in Limassol remains lower than demand, especially after the pandemic.

Regarding the construction of new dormitories in Nicosia and Limassol by public universities, he said that while these projects are underway and offer “optimism for the future,” the current situation is disappointing.

“We monitor the dormitory projects at both the University of Cyprus and CUT,” Karseras said, expressing concern over delays following the cancellation of a tender at the University of Cyprus. “We see no light on the horizon regarding when they will be ready. We send letters, request explanations, and the university rector informs us of developments — but so far, the picture is discouraging.”

In contrast, he noted that construction at CUT is progressing better, with the first 300 beds expected to be ready by October 2026. Still, he voiced concern that the planning for the new Limassol dorms was based on 2020 data — since then, CUT has introduced three new study programmes, adding about 100 new students per year, a figure projected to reach 400 over time.

Current Rents and Temporary Measures

In Limassol, a subsidised dorm room costs €350 per month. Until the new dorms are completed, CUT offers a €2,500 rent subsidy for 10 months to students meeting socio-economic criteria, following consultations with the student community. Additionally, the Metropolis of Limassol provides one free meal daily.

Both the University of Cyprus and CUT also run student welfare associations that grant annual scholarships to eligible students.

According to CUT’s website, until the new dorms are ready, 250 beds are available in rented buildings. Current rents are:

• Studios – €300

• One-bedroom apartments – €350

• Two-bedroom apartments – €500

• Three-bedroom apartments – €600

In Paphos, a cooperation agreement between the Municipality of Paphos and CUT provides 150 studios. Of these, 100 are subsidised at €350 (based on socio-economic criteria), and 50 are non-subsidised at €550 per month.

Private Rental Market and Networking Initiatives

In Limassol, the Facebook page “CUT Private Apartments Network” was launched to map available apartments and help students find flatmates. CUT issues an annual announcement inviting landlords to list their properties.

“Over the past two years, this network has helped more than 500 students,” Karseras said, praising the initiative and calling for similar actions at the University of Cyprus and abroad.

Through the network, senior-year students — who can search year-round — sometimes find apartments for as little as €400. However, first-year students face the greatest difficulties, which is why they are prioritised for dorm rooms.

A CNA review of listings on the network shows current Limassol rents:

• One-bedroom apartments: €600–€880

• Two-bedroom apartments: €1,100–€1,300

• Three-bedroom apartments: €1,300–€1,500

In Paphos:

• One-bedroom: €600–€700

• Two-bedroom: €750–€1,000

• Three-bedroom: €1,100–€1,500

Nicosia and Engomi Market Overview

For Nicosia, CNA spoke with POFEN member Antonis Partou, who said that near the University of Cyprus in Aglantzia, rents are:

• One-bedroom apartments: €500–€700

• Studios: €500–€650

• Two-bedroom apartments: €650–€750

While availability exists, he noted that more two-bedroom apartments would be welcome, as students prefer them for cost-sharing. He also mentioned new apartment buildings under construction close to the university, expected to offer 350 additional studios and one-bedroom units.

The University of Cyprus currently offers 208 beds at €180 per month, with priority for first-year students. Student unions, in cooperation with the university’s Housing Office, are also trying to secure discounted beds in private dorms for students meeting certain criteria.

Engomi and Private University Housing

POFEN member Andreas Grigoriou discussed housing in Engomi for private university students, where dorm rooms cost €700–€800, including utilities. Due to the high number of international students, availability is limited.

Nearby private rentals for one-bedroom apartments cost €700–€800, not including utility bills.