Retirement for North Cyprus

Many who eventually move to live in North Cyprus initially arrive for a holiday and quickly realize that the island is the perfect retirement destination.  A growing number of Scandinavians, particularly Swedes and Norwegians, have been moving to Northern Cyprus in recent years. Around 1,000 to 2,000 Scandinavians are living on the island, many of whom are attracted by affordable real estate and the warm climate. There are now over 10,000 British, European, and other international ex-pat residents living happily alongside the approximately 300,000 resident Turkish-speaking population.

Private healthcare and hospital facilities in Northern Cyprus are truly state-of-the-art, with modern centers such as the Near East University Hospital and its Medical School offering world-class equipment and treatment opportunities. Increasingly, visitors are traveling to the TRNC to benefit from significantly lower costs for private healthcare and surgeries, often finding the healthcare quality here surpasses that of their home countries.

Property investment in Northern Cyprus,
Property investment projects in Northern Cyprus.

While retirees in Northern Cyprus should consider private medical insurance, specialist consultations are remarkably affordable—typically around £25-30 per visit—making a “pay-as-you-go” approach a viable option for many. Additionally, prescription and over-the-counter medications are often much cheaper compared to other countries.

For retirees seeking European-standard healthcare and an active lifestyle, Northern Cyprus offers an abundance of leisure activities, with no shortage of options for enjoyment and adventure. A notable example is Peggy McAlpine, a world-famous British centenarian and former TRNC resident, who made headlines by setting a Guinness World Record for paragliding at the age of 104, soaring from the 2,400-foot peak of the Besparmak (Five Finger) Mountains down to the coast.

For those who prefer land or water-based activities, the brand-new Korineum Golf & Beach Resort is a major highlight. It features a meticulously maintained 18-hole golf course with breathtaking mountain and sea views. Its challenging design is often favored over the courses in Southern Cyprus, including the renowned Aphrodite Hills course. Water enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy in Northern Cyprus—the traditional Kyrenia Harbour, the Delta Marina at New Kyrenia Harbour, and the modern Karpaz Gate Marina—as well as numerous diving and water sports clubs.

For those who enjoy socializing, Northern Cyprus offers a vibrant expat community with various English-speaking societies hosting a range of events such as dances, talks, and fundraising gatherings. Expats can also immerse themselves in the local scene, enjoying new bookshops, cafés, and weekend markets, where they can relax and unwind with a cup of tea—or something stronger—while basking in the Mediterranean sunshine.

Korineum Golf & Beach Resort (Cyprus)
Korineum Golf & Beach Resort in Northern Cyprus.

For those concerned about staying connected to their home countries, Northern Cyprus provides convenient access to several Consulate offices in North Nicosia (Lefkoşa), including the British Consulate, where services like passport renewals and official advice for expat residents are readily available. While North Cyprus is officially a Muslim country, it is known for its welcoming attitude toward people of all faiths. Churchgoers will be pleased to discover the beautiful St. Andrew’s Church in Kyrenia, which holds regular Sunday services led by an Episcopal vicar based at the nearby Hermitage.

New arrivals can also take advantage of the British Residents Society, which holds weekly “clinics” at its Kyrenia office, where experienced expats offer advice and support. Membership in the society can provide newcomers with valuable guidance and a sense of community as they settle into life in Northern Cyprus.

One of the most compelling reasons people choose to retire in Northern Cyprus is the affordable cost of luxury property, especially when compared to other Mediterranean destinations, including the south coast of Turkey. Unlike markets in places like Spain, property prices in Northern Cyprus have remained stable and were largely unaffected by the global financial crash. While property values have increased over the last two years, Northern Cyprus continues to offer excellent value for money.

It’s still possible to find a two-bedroom resale apartment in Kyrenia or Iskele with full title deeds starting from £80,000, with three-bedroom apartments available from around £130,000. Townhouses typically start at £150,000, while bungalows or villas with pools begin at approximately £200,000. Naturally, the location and quality of the property can significantly influence the price, but Northern Cyprus remains one of the most affordable Mediterranean retirement destinations for those seeking luxury living at lower costs.

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