Living in Cyprus- What to expect as a UK Expat

Life in Cyprus – A deep dive.
If you’re thinking about living in Cyprus as a UK national, you’re not alone. Every year, thousands of Brits swap grey skies for golden beaches, affordable living, and a more relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle.
In this article we will delve into what its really like living in Cyprus in 2025
If you’re still just playing with the idea – our complete guide to moving to Cyprus – is the perfect place to start your relocation journey.

🌤 The Lifestyle
Cyprus offers a laid-back pace of life, deeply rooted in family values and community. You’ll find everything from seaside cafes and open-air markets to quiet rural villages and buzzing city life in Nicosia, Limassol, and Larnaca.
English is widely spoken, especially in areas with large expat populations — but picking up some basic Greek phrases is a sign of respect and helps you feel more at home.
💰 Cost of Living in Cyprus
Compared to the UK, Cyprus is generally more affordable. You can expect lower rent, cheaper groceries, and more budget-friendly meals out. However, imported goods, electronics, and branded items can come at a higher cost.
Utility bills are moderate, though air conditioning in the summer can increase your electricity usage.
Keen to read more about the cost of living in Cyprus? We have a dedicated blog post.
🏠 Renting Property in Cyprus
Renting is straightforward, and long-term lets are available furnished or unfurnished. Expect higher prices in expat-heavy cities like Limassol, but great value in smaller towns and villages.
To make things even easier for you, we’ve published a dedicated blog post on HOW to go about renting in Cyprus
Most landlords request 1–2 months’ deposit, and contracts are often flexible.
You can browse listings on Bazaraki or get local insights from Cyprus Property News.
🏥 Healthcare
Cyprus has a strong healthcare system. Expats are eligible to use GESY, the national healthcare scheme, or opt for private health insurance through providers like Cigna Global.
Many choose a combination — using public services for routine care and private clinics for quicker access or English-speaking specialists.
🚗 Getting Around
Driving in Cyprus is straightforward for Brits — they drive on the left, and your UK licence is valid. Public transport is limited outside of the main cities, so most expats choose to buy or lease a car.
You can check the RAC’s driving in Cyprus guide for tips on road rules, insurance, and local traffic customs.
📦 Making the Move
Since Brexit, moving to Cyprus from the UK involves a few more steps — but nothing overwhelming with the right help.
You’ll need:
- A Transfer of Residence (ToR) form
- A detailed inventory of your belongings
- Proof of accommodation
- Customs declarations for personal items
At EuromoveDirect, we assist with all of this — plus packing, storage, and on-the-ground delivery.
🧳 Final Thoughts
Living in Cyprus offers a balance of sunshine, simplicity, and security. Whether you’re retiring, relocating for work, or simply craving change, Cyprus delivers. With good infrastructure, a strong UK expat community, and slower living — it’s easy to feel at home here.
If you’re thinking about making the move, get a free quote or explore our full removals to Cyprus service to learn more.
If you’ve got any more general questions check out our FAQ’s or just get in touch.
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