College students scramble for affordable housing

Universities in the Republic of Cyprus are in the hunt for off-campus affordable housing solutions in a tough post-pandemic market, following reports that many students are resorting to nearby abodes both north and south of the divide line.

Local media recently reported on Greek Cypriots crossing into the north for financial reasons, such as filling up on gas and shopping due to high prices in the south.

But information shared with the media, along with Cyprus Police data on crossings, also pointed to college students in west Nicosia resorting to housing solutions in the north where they can rent apartments at a fraction of the cost in the south.

Similar housing issues have been reported in Paphos where college students from Greece and rural areas had a hard time finding affordable housing, with many ending up being put up in hotels affiliated with higher education institutions.

Neapolis University Pafos officials also pointed to reluctance on the part of students to move into the three dormitories on campus due to distance education applied by the institution during the pandemic, according to the Cyprus News Agency.

Similar issues were also reported in Limassol where university officials issued an appeal to families to host students for a €200 fee that would not include food expenses.

“Do a good deed that will make a difference! Live in the joy of community service! Help a student study in our town! Host a student, change a life!” said a statement from TEPAK in Limassol, where one bedroom near the technical university could go as high as €800.

Knews understands some students are deferring their upcoming semester registrations due to lack of housing.