Wondering how much it costs to live as a student in North Cyprus? This guide covers rent, food, transport, and more to help you budget smartly and live affordably as an international student.
🎓 Living on a Budget: Real Cost of Student Life in North Cyprus (2025 Guide)
Studying in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) is becoming increasingly popular, especially for international students looking for affordable education and a Mediterranean lifestyle. But how much does it actually cost to live here as a student?
If you’re planning to move to North Cyprus for your studies, here’s a realistic breakdown of the monthly cost of living, along with budgeting tips to help you enjoy student life without breaking the bank.
📌 1. Accommodation Costs
One of your biggest expenses will be housing, but luckily, North Cyprus offers many affordable options:
- Shared student apartment: €150–€250/month
- Private studio (near campus): €250–€400/month
- University dormitories: €100–€300/month (depending on room type and amenities)
Tip: Sharing an apartment with friends or classmates can cut your costs by 30–40%.
🍽️ 2. Food and Groceries
Eating out is budget-friendly in North Cyprus, but cooking at home is even cheaper.
- Groceries (monthly): €100–€150
- Fast food meal: €3–€5
- Restaurant meal: €7–€12
- Coffee/tea at a café: €1.5–€3
Many universities also offer canteens with daily meals at reduced prices, usually around €2–€3 per meal.
🚌 3. Transportation
Students often walk or use minibuses (called dolmuş) which are cheap and accessible.
- Monthly transport budget: €10–€20
- Local bus ride: €0.50–€1
- Taxi (short ride): €3–€7
Some students rent scooters or bicycles if they live far from campus.
💻 4. Internet, Phone & Utilities
These services are typically lower in cost than mainland Europe.
- Mobile plan (with data): €7–€15/month
- Home internet (shared): €10–€20/month
- Electricity, water, gas (shared flat): €20–€40/month
🎓 5. Other Monthly Expenses
- Study materials: €10–€20
- Clothes, self-care, etc.: €20–€50
- Leisure (cinema, cafes, gym): €20–€60
- Visa/permit renewals (annual): ~€50–€80
✅ Total Estimated Monthly Budget for Students (2025)
| Category | Estimated Cost (EUR) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | €150–€400 |
| Food & Groceries | €100–€150 |
| Transport | €10–€20 |
| Utilities & Internet | €30–€60 |
| Personal & Study Needs | €30–€100 |
| Total | €320–€730/month |
💡 Budgeting Tips for Students in North Cyprus
- Cook at home to save on food
- Split rent with roommates
- Look for university-sponsored events—they’re often free
- Use student ID discounts on transport and in some shops
- Buy used textbooks or download digital copies
🌍 Why North Cyprus is Great for Budget-Conscious Students
North Cyprus offers the rare mix of low living costs, quality education, and a safe, relaxed lifestyle. Students from Turkey, Africa, the Middle East, and Europe come here not just for affordability, but for a unique experience in a culturally diverse and scenic environment.
If you’re looking for affordable, quality education without the stress of big-city expenses, North Cyprus might just be your ideal study destination. northcyprusinvesting.com, Investra.io