Since Covid (and more recently, the UK government’s tax changes) Cyprus has moved onto the radar of many more Britons.
Retirees are drawn to its laid-back pace and reassuringly Anglo-friendly culture, but the island’s tax benefits have also come into sharper focus, especially the 5% tax on pensions for retirees.
With quality of lifestyle an increasing priority, many Britons have been looking towards Cyprus – particularly the western part of the island, known as the Paphos region.
In fact, of the five most-searched-for Cypriot locations on aplaceinthesun.com, four of them – Chloraka, Coral Bay, Sea Caves and Droushia – are in the Paphos district, showing the extent of its enduring appeal.
What Makes Paphos So Popular?
Paphos district has Paphos town as its capital - a growing hub increasingly popular with both retirees and young families. It’s relatively flat, and while its beaches may not be the island’s best, it’s widely regarded as the best region for golf, with four courses: Aphrodite Hills, Elea Golf Club, Minthis (formerly Tsada), and Secret Valley.
Paphos is well connected, with an airport offering direct, year-round flights to the UK. It’s also home to four international schools and three universities. For example, senior fees at ASPIRE Private British School are about a third of the average for UK independent schools.
Recent years have brought major infrastructure upgrades. The harbour and port have been modernised with new seafront promenades, and the beachfront area in Kato Paphos has also been upgraded. The old part of town, including Kennedy Square and the former police station, is undergoing a 15-month revamp. The local bus system is improving, and the airport is undergoing a 27-month upgrade to boost capacity by 30% to handle 5 million passengers annually - driven in part by Cyprus’s record tourism year in 2024.
Where (and What) to Buy
As mentioned, current interest is strong in Chloraka, Coral Bay, Sea Caves, Kissonerga and Droushia, but we can also add Paphos town, Kato Paphos, Tala and the Akamas Peninsula, including the charming village of Polis.
Across the Paphos market, British buyers continue to dominate the resale sector. Typical purchases range from €200,000 to €350,000 for a two- or three-bedroom home, or around €140,000–€170,000 for a two-bedroom townhouse.
Kato Paphos, the historic heart of the city, is popular for those wanting a central location. It blends modern amenities with ancient charm and is close to the beach. Known for its picturesque harbour, ancient ruins, and vibrant atmosphere, it offers apartments starting from around €100,000.
For authentic Cypriot villages just outside of town, Peyia and Tala are popular – and there’s the
five-star Aphrodite Hills resort nearby.
Aphrodite Hills has arguably Cyprus’s most successful resort over the long term, where luxury villas (starting at around €800,000) sit between world-class golf, spa and equestrian facilities. Apartments there cost from around €140,000.
Minthis (in Tsada area) and Eléa Estates are other high-end gated communities with large contemporary villas to be found for around €2m.
Peyia (sometimes spelt Pegeia) on the steep hills near Coral Bay, overlooks the picturesque Akamas peninsula and although it has some exclusive properties (the singer Shakira is reported to own one on the Cap St. Georges resort) there’s a big choice of affordable properties – despite rising prices. Four years ago, you might have paid €50,000 for a one-bedroom apartment but now you are looking at around €65,000 as the entry level; or for a three-bed property for €175,000.
In the tranquil village of Tala your money doesn’t go quite as far – and there are fewer homes for sale – find a good one-bed apartment for €149,000 or a three-bed villa for around €300,000.
Coral Bay with its Blue Flag beaches is another popular resort area, with two-bed townhouses from around €85,000.
Droushia is ideal for those seeking a slower pace of life and a traditional Cypriot village atmosphere, with easy access to Akamas.
Heading further north, Polis and Latchi sit beside the unspoilt Akamas Peninsula, an exceptionally beautiful nature reserve. The pretty town of Polis on Chrysochous Bay has some of the best beaches on the island, in secluded bays with crystal-clear waters, and a great café culture, especially at Latchi, the attractive harbour of Polis with an extended marina.
Ready to Explore?
Start your journey by exploring properties for sale in Cyprus, or get expert guidance in our Buying Guide to Cyprus.
