Living in Cyprus – your complete guide
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Written by Julian Benson

11th August 2025

Young girl snorkeling with marine life underwater, in the clear warm ocean with rocky seabed. Travel picture with the woman snorkeler in the sea. Turquoise water and swimming tourist.

Living in Cyprus is about more than adjusting to a new climate – it’s about building a life that works day to day. Whether you’re relocating for work, retirement or simply a change of pace, making that life comfortable and fulfilling takes planning, curiosity and local insight.

This article brings together everything you need to understand the practical side of living in Cyprus. From healthcare and education to furnishing your home, learning the language and managing your move, these resources are here to support you as you settle in. Wherever you’re starting from, this is your place to begin.

Contents

A plate of grilled seafood with lemon and greens on a blue and white tablecloth, surrounded by trees, rustic decor, and a glimpse of the sea in Cyprus.

Are you read to start living in Cyprus and enjoying its daily delights?

Everyday living in Cyprus

Settling into everyday life takes more than unpacking your boxes. Understanding Cypriot culture can help you navigate local customs, build connections and feel more at home, while embracing the food of Cyprus is one of the most enjoyable ways to get to know your new surroundings.

Getting familiar with shopping in Cyprus will also make day-to-day routines easier – from markets and supermarkets to sourcing everyday essentials. If you’re planning to stay long term, learning the language in Cyprus can open doors both practically and socially, helping you feel more confident in local life.

Transport is another key part of adapting, and our guide to transport in Cyprus explains how to get around by car, bus or on foot. And while relocating can be a rewarding experience, it’s natural to have moments of doubt – our article on homesickness after moving to Cyprus offers support and strategies for finding your footing emotionally as you settle in.

Practicalities of setting up home

Once you’ve secured your property, the focus shifts to making it liveable. If you’re relocating from abroad, knowing how to move your belongings to Cyprus can help you plan shipping, customs and delivery with confidence, avoiding unexpected delays or costs.

When it comes to settling in, you’ll want your home to feel like your own. Our guide to how to furnish your home in Cyprus covers everything from where to buy furniture to how to furnish efficiently if you’re starting from scratch.

And for any work that needs doing – from minor repairs to full-scale renovations – it’s essential to find tradespeople in Cyprus you can trust. Understanding how the local industry works will help you avoid pitfalls and get the job done well.

If you’re planning to build a long-term life in Cyprus, understanding how to work in Cyprus is essential. From employment rights to registering for tax and social insurance, this guide explains what you need to know before starting a job or setting up a business.

For families, choosing the right school is a key part of planning the move. Whether you’re looking at local state schools or private international options, our guide to how to find schools in Cyprus will help you navigate the education system with confidence.

Healthcare is another important foundation. Our article on how to access healthcare in Cyprus outlines the difference between public and private care, how to register with the national health service and what to expect in terms of cost and coverage.

Leisure and lifestyle

Life in Cyprus isn’t just about settling in – it’s about enjoying what the island has to offer. Whether you’re drawn to the sea, the mountains or something more social, there’s no shortage of ways to stay active and connected. Our guide to sports and leisure activities in Cyprus explores everything from walking trails and watersports to local clubs and cultural pursuits, helping you make the most of your free time in your new home.

If you’re still weighing up your options, our guide to where to buy property in Cyprus explores the island’s most popular regions, from coastal resorts to quieter inland towns. When you’re ready to take the next step, our article on how to buy property in Cyprus walks you through the process – from legal checks to financial planning.

If you’d like tailored guidance for your move, you can book a free consultation with a property expert at any time.

Frequently asked questions about living in Cyprus

Is it easy to get around in Cyprus?

Yes, but it depends on where you live. Our guide to transport in Cyprus explains the pros and cons of driving, using public transport and walking, so you can plan accordingly.

How do I move my belongings to Cyprus from abroad?

Shipping personal items to Cyprus requires customs paperwork, timing and sometimes professional removals help. Find out more in our guide on how to move your belongings to Cyprus.

Can I work in Cyprus as a foreigner?

Yes – many expats live and work in Cyprus. Our article on how to work in Cyprus outlines everything from visas to employment rights and registering with the authorities.

How does healthcare work in Cyprus?

Healthcare in Cyprus is delivered through both public and private systems. To access the public system, you’ll usually need to register. Learn more in our guide on how to access healthcare in Cyprus.

Is it difficult to adjust to life in Cyprus?

Relocation always involves a period of adjustment. Learning about Cypriot culture, understanding local customs and managing homesickness after moving to Cyprus can help you feel settled sooner.

Can I send my child to a local school?

Yes – Cyprus offers both public and private education. Our guide to finding schools in Cyprus helps you understand the system and what to consider when choosing the right school.

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