Are you thinking about renting or buying property in Nicosia?
Nicosia (also known as Lefkosia) is the last divided capital in Europe, with half of the city under Turkish occupation. The city is located in the centre of the Meditteranean island, Cyprus. Nicosia serves as a hub for various opportunities and a rich cultural scene within the country. So, why choose to reside in Nicosia?
Advantages of living in Nicosia
There are many advantages to reap from living in or around the capital of the island. Some of the main ones include:
Opportunities
Many new employment and life opportunities saturate the capital city of Cyprus. In recent years, multiple national and international businesses have opened brand-new office spaces in Nicosia. The capital provides the amenities needed to run large and small corporations while maintaining low rent, sale and tax rates.
Culture
The society in Nicosia is booming with new and old cultural events and establishments of all sorts. From the arts to sports, the city has a little bit of everything for everyone to enjoy. (museums, galleries, theatres, churches, markets, libraries, sports centres) See more
Location
Nicosia benefits from being located only a 1-hour drive away from the closest beaches and mountains on the island. Many villages (e.g. Spilia, Alona, Askas, Xyliatos, Kakopetria, Kalopanayiotis) also surround the city with rich history and culture ready to discover. These assets provide a duality in lifestyle to citizens who get viable employment in the city and enjoy time off at nearby holiday getaways.
Additionally, the capital’s proximity to Larnaca airport is only 50km away for easy access.
Property rent prices
The rate of property rental prices in Nicosia is marginally lower than many other European capital cities and even other cities in Cyprus, such as Limassol.
Education
Nicosia is home to many public and private schools for students of all ages. Furthermore, the city has newly developed higher education institutes, such as the University of Nicosia, the island’s largest and most established university.
Green spaces
Parks and natural spaces are abundant in the district of Nicosia. They hold a well-needed spot for the physical and mental wellbeing of citizens who enjoy leisurely strolls, cycling, and dog walking, among other activities. The presence of greenery, rivers, and wildlife provide a refreshing break from the hustle of urban life.
Some examples of parks in the district include Nicosia Municipal Park, Athalassa National Park, Acropolis Park, Grammiko Park.
Not a tourist hub
Unlike other destinations on the island, tourists do not flood to the capital in the annual summer season. The inland capital city represents a modern and vibrant working environment rather than a holiday destination for party-goers. As a result, by living there, you avoid the influx of seasonal tourists while still having access to closeby vacation spots on your own accord.
Furthermore, the real estate and housing in the city tend to be better-equipped for year-long living by having features such as central heating and proper protection from the rain.
Low crime rates
General crime rates across all of Cyprus, including Nicosia, are marginally lower than larger countries in the rest of the world.
Areas within Nicosia
According to the Statistical Service of Cyprus (2015), the district of Nicosia has 12 municipalities and 162 official communities. Listed here are some of the main areas:
Strovolos
Strovolos is in the centre of the city and the second most populated municipality in Cyprus.
Engomi
Engomi is home to Makedonitissa, named after the Holy Monastery of Panagia Makedonitissas. Engomi has a shopping mall of its own and holds the embassies of Egypt, France, the United States and Russia.
Aglantzia
Aglantzia (also known as Aglandjia), established in medieval times, is the city’s highest suburb. The municipality has many green spaces, including Athalassa forest park and over 45 parks and green spaces.
Latsia
Latsia is located on the southern outskirts of the capital. It hosts the Mall of Cyprus, IKEA, the GSP stadium, and the Nicosia General Hospital.
Lakatamia
Lakatamia (also known as Lakatameia) is the third-largest municipality in Nicosia and fifth-largest in Cyprus. The town was originally two smaller villages until they joined together to form a sizeable suburb.
Agios Dometios
Agios Dometios is located west of central Nicosia. The municipality borders the checkpoint where people cross between the Greek-Cypriot and Turkish-occupied sides of Cyprus.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the Nicosia district has a lot to offer as the vibrant capital city of the island. Cyprus may be a small country, but the developed quality of life and culture does not fall short. Living in Nicosia provides the easy-going lifestyle of Cyprus while also having promising opportunities for employment and growth. The perks of living in the capital city include proximity to beaches, mountains, airports and cosy villages, as well as low property rental rates. Furthermore, citizens of Nicosia benefit from good educational institutes, various parks in the city, and low crime rates.
Each suburb in Nicosia has its specifics in history and amenities, but the city as a whole is a relatively small and tight-knit community.
Use Estate Searcher to find your ideal property in Cyprus today!