29 Great Reasons to Move to Cyprus

Why are so many expats choosing to live or retire on the beautiful Mediterranean island of Cyprus? Read below to find out the key reasons.

Cyprus is a stunning country with a thriving expat community. But, the big question is – what is it that has drawn so many people to relocate to this beautiful island nation? Here we look at just a few of the many reasons to move to Cyprus.

The third-largest island in the Mediterranean, Cyprus is located south of Turkey and to the southeast of Greece. It lies at the intersection between Africa, Asia, and Europe — and it has a way of pulling even the most distracted traveler fully into the present. A friend who had spent most of the connecting flight cycling through real money slots online didn’t last ten minutes on the tarmac at Larnaca before closing the app entirely, undone by the quality of the light alone. Cyprus offers some of the most stunning scenery you will find anywhere, including miles and miles of the most fantastic beaches, alongside unique cultural traditions and a wealth of exciting places to visit.

When it comes to moving abroad, expats from all over the world consider Cyprus to be one of the most desirable locations. There is a well-established, substantial UK expat community living there.

Whether you have been to Cyprus on holiday and have been captivated by the country and its people, or you have heard that it is the ideal place to move to, you probably have some questions in the back of your mind about why you should be giving a move to Cyprus some serious consideration.

Read on to discover just some of the reasons why you should move to Cyprus. If you need any assistance with removals to Cyprus, make sure to contact PSS.

1. The fantastic Cypriot weather

The reason so many people flock to the Mediterranean on holiday is the excellent climate, so it stands to reason that this would be a major draw for anyone considering moving there. The island of Cyprus is a good place to live, blessed with long summers and short mild winters.

In fact, you can expect to see the sunshine around 10 hours a day. This beautiful weather offers people plenty of opportunities to get out and enjoy their surroundings.

Rain occurs mainly in winter, with summer being generally dry. But you can still find snow if you head to the Troodos Mountains in the central part of the island.

2. The laidback lifestyle and pace of life

While the pace of life in the UK can be somewhat frantic and rushed, the same cannot be said of Cyprus, where the pace of life is far more laid back. The Mediterranean culture is very strong in this particular area, and the locals take advantage of the opportunities to take life at a slower pace.

Family and quality time together are highly valued, and many stores close early to support this lifestyle. This relaxed pace also influences daily life, where there’s often little sense of urgency. While this may feel unfamiliar at first, it’s a rhythm you’ll quickly grow accustomed to as you settle into island life.

3. Few crowds and plenty of space

If you are moving to escape the hustle and bustle of the big cities, then Cyprus’s somewhat sparse population can be a real draw.

The total population of Cyprus is around 850,000, and with around three-quarters of those inhabitants living in the five main residential areas, it’s easy to see that despite the small size of the island, there is, in fact, quite a lot of room.

4. English is widely spoken

It may be surprising to learn that the majority of people in Cyprus speak English. Language barriers are often the main concern for people when thinking about moving abroad. Prior to Cyprus gaining independence in 1960, it was a British Colony for over 80 years, so most of the people who live there speak English.

In fact, English is routinely used in every aspect of society on the island at quite high conversational levels. Having said all that, learning some of the local Greek language will certainly get you on the right side of your neighbours.

5. Fantastic standards of education

The quality of education on the island is extremely high, and there are several international schools. There are, of course, the fees to take into consideration as these schools are privately run. However, the high levels of academic excellence more than speak for themselves.

Your children will not only have the advantage of a good education but also the benefit of growing up in an international culture. This is a cost that many expat families are happy to look at when considering relocation.

6. Plenty of fresh air with low pollution levels

As awareness of pollution and its impact on health continues to grow, relocating to a region or country with lower pollution levels is becoming an increasingly common priority.

Cyprus has very little heavy industry, meaning its air, land, and water are largely free from industrial pollutants. The air tends to feel cleaner, and individuals with respiratory conditions such as asthma may even notice an improvement in their symptoms. That said, Cyprus does occasionally experience dust storms, primarily during the spring months.

7. A peaceful society with low crime rates

Cyprus is a very safe country with one of the lowest crime rates in Europe. This is a huge draw for professionals and young families looking for a safer country to relocate to.

Whilst some crimes do go unreported, these are of the petty theft variety between neighbours and are dealt with relatively amicably without the need to involve the police. Reported incidents of violent crime are very low on the island.

8. The low cost of living

Compared to the UK and other locations in Europe, the cost of living on Cyprus is much lower.

So, those who move to Cyprus, especially if they have sold property in the UK in order to move, can expect to enjoy an excellent standard of living on a somewhat modest budget, whilst still being able to save for the future.

9. Advantageous tax rates

Income tax rates in Cyprus are low in comparison to those of other European countries. In addition, there is limited capital gains tax, low corporate tax and no inheritance tax. This is excellent news for anyone hoping to relocate no matter whether to work or for retirement.

10. Many employment and work opportunities

These low tax rates mean that in recent years several larger international companies have chosen to make Cyprus a base for their business. This has provided a healthy number of new job opportunities for those expats relocating to Cyprus.

The business-friendly environment and large expat community mean that many expats have started thriving businesses in diverse industries such as construction, plumbing, and tourism.

11. Quality public healthcare

The public healthcare services in Cyprus are excellent, meeting and often exceeding international standards. Permanent residents can access free basic medical care via the National Healthcare System, and emergency treatment in public hospitals is free to all.

12. Excellent private healthcare

As one of the best private healthcare sectors in Europe, Cyprus is a popular healthcare destination. The majority of those who work in the private healthcare sector speak fluent English. They have either studied, lived or worked in the UK.

13. Transportation infrastructure

Whilst there is no railway system in Cyprus, there is a new and modern public bus transport system that connects rural areas to all the cities. It is an easy way to access the entire island. The mainland is linked to the island by harbours and airports.

14. People drive on the left side of the road

Due to its UK heritage, Cyprus is right-hand drive (on the left side of the road) with familiar traffic rules and road signs, which makes it easy for UK migrants to adjust to the road conditions. Also, shipping your car from the UK to Cyprus is a simple and cost-effective process, with many expats doing so every year.

15. Stunning beaches

Cyprus is home to some stunning beaches, and thanks to the work-life balance that is so important to Cypriots, there is plenty of time set aside to enjoy what the area has to offer. Of course, the short distance from home plays a huge factor in this as well.

So no matter whether it’s the golden sands of Fig Tree Bay, the magical sea coves at Coral Bay or the vivid turquoise waters of Blue Lagoon Akamas, you’ll always be spoilt for choice.

16. First-rate communication network

There is an excellent telecommunication and internet structure in Cyprus, and with the recent influx of international businesses relocating to the island, this is only set to get better. You can therefore access fast broadband in most parts of the island.

17. Property Prices

Property prices in Cyprus are very reasonable, and the government is offering incentives to people who buy real estate. These buyers can get residency, which means that the property market in Cyprus has really picked up in the last couple of years.

You had better not delay as many people are catching onto the benefits of living in Cyprus!

18. Tasty local produce

The Cypriots indulge in a typical Mediterranean diet. Local markets are a popular sight all over the island, offering a fantastic variety of fresh, local produce. Being an island, Cyprus also boasts plenty of fresh fish, and ingredients are generally seasonal, fresh, and very healthy—take a look at some examples here on Instagram.

19. Child-friendly

The Cypriots are very family-oriented, and, as such, the island, on the whole, is very family-friendly. While you may not always find children’s menus in restaurants, Cypriots will go out of their way to make children feel welcome in any setting.

20. It’s easy to make the move!

With so many people choosing to move from the UK to Cyprus every year, it’s good to know that there are so many cost-effective services in place to make the move easier. No matter whether it’s financial advice, property purchasing, car shipping, house removals or shipping your belongings to Cyprus, it’s good to know that you’ll be assisted every step of the way.

21. Incredible history

Cyprus has a rich and incredibly diverse history, which can be traced back thousands of years. With the oldest known settlements dating back to between 6000 and 9000 years ago, the island has so much to teach.

Cyprus has been owned by many other countries over the years, and more recently was a colony of the British Empire. These are all events that have added to its rich tapestry and make it a country worth exploring.

22. Tomb of the Kings

This UNESCO World Heritage Site, just a few kilometres north of Paphos harbour, offers a unique look at some of the most stunning ancient architecture the island has to offer. Interestingly enough, no kings were ever buried at this large necropolis.

23. Stunning natural scenery

Boasting so many rural areas, the island of Cyprus offers some truly spectacular natural scenery for those who are willing to explore in order to find it. You can explore various hiking outdoor activities such as Aphrodite Trail, Adonis Nature Trail and Artemis Nature Trail.

24. Large expat community

Moving to another country can be challenging, and it’s not uncommon to struggle at first when adjusting to a completely different lifestyle.

Being part of an expat community can make a big difference in easing those early hurdles. Connecting with others who have already been through the process means you’ll have guidance, support, and someone to point you in the right direction.

There are also plenty of Cyprus-specific websites and online communities that can help you settle in, such as the popular We Love Cyprus Facebook group, where you can ask questions, share experiences, and get local tips from fellow expats and locals alike. Visit We Love Cyprus on Facebook.

25. An abundance of water sport opportunities

Surrounded by water, Cyprus is a great place to take up water sports. There are so many to choose from, and so many truly spectacular locations that you really will be spoilt for choice.

Popular options include scuba diving, windsurfing, jet skiing, banana & tube rides, wakeboarding and more.

26. One of the longest life expectancies in Europe

Life expectancy in Cyprus is very good, with men and women ranking third and fifth, respectively, in comparison to people in other EU countries. What’s more, it’s increased by 3 years in the last decade and is still getting better.

Whether it is the laid-back attitude to life, the lower levels of pollution or the ready availability of all that fresh in-season fruit and vegetables, quality of healthcare – or even a combination of all of these, we are not sure, but it’s good to know that if you move to Cyprus you’ll likely live longer to enjoy it!

27. Living in a popular holiday destination

While you might miss your family back in the UK, moving to such a popular holiday destination means that they should find it relatively easy to come and visit you. And Cyprus certainly is a destination worth visiting, so you may find yourself very popular when the holiday season comes around!

28. Rental properties are inexpensive

If you are not looking to buy a property, then don’t worry, the rental market in Cyprus is very healthy, and properties are overall inexpensive. Of course, if you are looking for something in the more populated touristy areas, then you will be looking at much higher rentals.

29. Familiar British Touches Can Help You Feel at Home

Moving abroad doesn’t mean leaving all your home comforts behind. In Cyprus, there are many British influences that can help ease the transition and make settling in a little bit easier.

From familiar high-street shops and traditional British pubs to restaurants serving Sunday roasts and even fish and chip shops, there are plenty of places where British expats can enjoy a taste of home.

You can also find British food products in several supermarkets and stores across the island. Metro, Lidl, Papantoniou, Alphamega, and Alpha Sigma Supermarkets are great places to shop for familiar groceries. Even Jumbo occasionally stocks British snacks and seasonal treats.

These touches of familiarity can be especially comforting in your early days on the island, helping you feel more at ease as you adjust to your new lifestyle.

Looking for a great spot to try? Check out the best-rated British restaurants in Paphos

 

Are you ready to make the move?

So, there you go. Cyprus is a truly incredible destination for those who are looking to move and could certainly be far more than a holiday destination for any family, retired couple or even young professional looking for a completely different outlook on life.

If the stresses of life are getting to you, then the laid-back lifestyle of this stunning island could be just what you need. And with a well-established expat community on hand to guide you through the early complexities of a completely different lifestyle, there will be nothing to stop you settling in.

For more information about moving to Cyprus, visit our removals to Cyprus page, which will answer all your questions about the removals process.

If you would like a quote for moving to Cyprus or have any questions, then get in touch with us here at PSS International Removals, and we’ll be happy to help.