Best Places to Live in North Cyprus for Expats

North Cyprus is a Mediterranean gem, renowned for its stunning coastlines, high quality of life, and surprisingly affordable living costs. In recent years, it has gained increasing attention for the unique advantages it offers to expats, investors, and digital nomads alike.

If you’re moving to North Cyprus from Europe, or simply exploring what life could look like under the sun, and trying to find the best place to live in North Cyprus, we've got you covered.

Whether you’re planning retirement in North Cyprus, remote work, or raising a family, there are always important questions to consider when relocating abroad. Questions like “Is it safe to live in North Cyprus?” or “Which towns offer the most expat-friendly lifestyle?” are not only valid—they're essential. In this guide, we break down the most popular and welcoming areas for foreigners, so you can confidently decide where to start your next chapter.

Where to Live in North Cyprus as a Foreigner?

After careful consideration of living in North Cyprus, pros and cons, and identifying your priorities, you may have decided that this Mediterranean gem is the right place for your next chapter. Now that you have a clearer idea of what you want from your expat life in North Cyprus, the next step is choosing the right location to call home.

Whether you're seeking a peaceful coastal retreat, a family-friendly community, a vibrant town with expat conveniences, or the ideal retirement in North Cyprus, this beautiful island offers a variety of areas that cater to different lifestyles. Below are the best places to live in North Cyprus for foreigners, each with its own unique appeal.

Kyrenia (Girne)

Kyrenia, often called the Jewel of Cyprus, is a top destination in North Cyprus for tourists and expats. With its vibrant atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and historic sites like Kyrenia Castle, the city effortlessly blends charm and modern living. Its lively restaurants, cafés, and shops make it an appealing location for those buying property in North Cyprus or looking to settle down.

The city offers a range of real estate, from luxurious coastal villas to traditional Cypriot homes. Its growing international community, including digital nomads and retirees, is supported by co-working spaces and online expat groups, making it easy for newcomers to connect. This community-oriented lifestyle, with easy integration for both expats and locals who look out for each other, creates a safe and welcoming environment. This is one of the key reasons why the question, “Is North Cyprus a safe place to live?”, can be confidently answered with a resounding yes. In fact, North Cyprus stands as one of the safest destinations in the Mediterranean, offering peace of mind for those looking to settle in the region.

With a large British expat population and a booming tourism industry, English is widely spoken, which helps reduce language barriers, making Kyrenia one of the most popular cities in North Cyprus for foreigners. The cosmopolitan atmosphere, enriched by expats from Europe, the USA, and beyond, fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment, ideal for anyone looking to relocate. This strong international community is a major factor in making Kyrenia an excellent choice for expats living in North Cyprus, pros and cons being balanced and the most favorable as the advantages far outweigh the disadvantages here.

In the Kyrenia region, expat-friendly towns in North Cyprus like Çatalköy, Esentepe, and Lapta offer unique lifestyles and excellent real estate opportunities.

Located just east of Kyrenia, Çatalköy is a charming coastal village known for its blend of traditional Cypriot architecture and modern villas. Nestled at the foot of the Kyrenia Mountains, it offers stunning views, scenic walking trails, and easy access to Kyrenia’s town center. The area has seen recent development with international cafés, boutique shops, and a steadily growing expat community, making it a top choice for those looking to enjoy nature without giving up modern comforts.

Esentepe is a favorite among foreigners seeking a tranquil coastal living in North Cyprus. Known for its unspoiled beaches, peaceful atmosphere, and affordable property options, it is especially popular among retirees and those looking for summer homes in North Cyprus. The area is also home to the prestigious Korineum Golf & Beach Resort, making it a hub for golf lovers. A tight-knit international community here regularly organizes social and cultural events, adding to its strong community feel. Despite its calm setting, Esentepe is just a short drive from Kyrenia, providing the best of both worlds.

Set on the hills west of Kyrenia, Lapta offers cooler summers, panoramic views, and a quiet village lifestyle. As the town is one of the top safe areas to live in North Cyprus and offers a welcoming, expat-friendly environment, it’s becoming increasingly popular with those seeking a peaceful, secure lifestyle—making it ideal for families, expats, and holidaymakers alike. The area is just 10–15 minutes from Kyrenia’s bustling center, schools, restaurants, and marinas, offering both peace and connectivity. Lapta combines a traditional coastal village ambiance with modern housing complexes tailored for foreign buyers. It's also near the well-known Blue House, one of North Cyprus's top cultural attractions, adding another layer of appeal.

Famagusta (Gazimağusa)

Renowned for its deep historical roots, Famagusta is one of the most captivating cities in North Cyprus, blending ancient architecture with modern living. Surrounded by Venetian city walls and home to iconic landmarks such as Othello Castle, Gothic cathedrals, and a charming old town, Famagusta offers a unique cultural and historical experience. Unlike some coastal towns that feel seasonal or resort-like, Famagusta is a living city with an active year-round population, lively nightlife, and a thriving old town that’s not just for tourists.

What makes Famagusta especially appealing for expats living in North Cyprus is its balance of history, modern infrastructure, education opportunities and low cost of living in North Cyprus. The city hosts three major universities, including the prestigious Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU), attracting thousands of international students and expat families seeking bilingual education in both English and Turkish. This academic environment contributes to a strong international community, supported by international schools, expat social clubs, and multicultural organizations.

Famagusta also stands out as a commercial and trade hub in North Cyprus, home to the island’s largest port. This drives local employment and economic development, making the city not only culturally rich but also economically vibrant. These diverse opportunities — paired with its dynamic local economy and increasing interest from foreign buyers — make it an attractive location for real estate investment, North Cyprus Famagusta, thus, blends cultural richness with promising growth potential.

Several surrounding districts in Famagusta are especially popular with expats seeking a Mediterranean lifestyle. Among them, Yeni İskele (İskele & Boğaz) and Tatlısu are standout choices.

A favorite among British retirees and holiday home buyers, Yeni İskele combines natural beauty with cultural vibrancy. The area is known for its unspoiled beaches like Long Beach and Palm Beach, scenic seaside promenades, and family-friendly atmosphere. Events like the Grape Festival in August bring the community together and celebrate local heritage. With a wide range of new housing developments, beachfront properties, and expanding infrastructure, Yeni İskele is one of the top spots to buy North Cyprus real estate for foreigners, making it an increasingly attractive location for property investment and long-term living.

Located between Famagusta and Kyrenia, Tatlısu offers a peaceful, rural lifestyle ideal for those seeking tranquility and natural surroundings. Surrounded by olive groves, fields, and coastal views, this small village of around 6,000 people provides low-density housing and a close-knit community. While it offers a quiet retreat, Tatlısu is still less than an hour’s drive from Famagusta, giving residents easy access to urban amenities without sacrificing serenity. It’s a perfect choice for expats who want to embrace a slower pace of life close to nature.

İskele

Located on the route to the Karpaz Peninsula, İskele is increasingly becoming a favorite among expats living in North Cyprus. Formerly part of Famagusta, this rapidly developing district is now attracting growing international attention for both living and real estate investment in North Cyprus.

Famous for its unspoiled beaches and new luxury developments, İskele combines natural beauty with modern living. Compared to other parts of North Cyprus, cost of living here is notably more affordable — from property prices and utilities to dining and everyday expenses — making it an appealing choice for retirees, families, and investors alike.

The area also offers a wide range of leisure activities including cycling, and hiking in the nearby countryside and Karpaz Peninsula, as well as diving, snorkeling, and enjoying the region’s excellent local cuisine. İskele also acts as the gateway to the pristine Karpaz region, known for its untouched nature, wildlife (like the iconic wild donkeys), and traditional villages. Not far away, Golden Beach in Dipkarpaz remains one of the most stunning and serene beaches in North Cyprus.

Nicosia (Lefkoşa)

Nicosia, the vibrant capital of North Cyprus, is a cultural and administrative hub. As the largest city in the north, it hosts government offices, foreign embassies, consulates, and branches of international companies—making it the political, financial, and business center of the island.

While the city is mostly populated by locals, it also draws a significant number of international students and expat families thanks to its concentration of universities and quality education options. Its strong job market—particularly in finance, technology, education, and public administration—makes living in Nicosia attractive for professionals seeking career opportunities in North Cyprus. The city also boasts a rich cultural scene with theaters, art galleries, and live events.

For expats, North Nicosia’s Hamitköy and Dereboyu stand out as the best neighborhoods in North Cyprus for urban convenience, social vibrancy, and easy access to local amenities, making them prime locations for those seeking a dynamic lifestyle in the heart of the city.

Hamitköy is a quiet suburban neighborhood favored for its family-friendly atmosphere, proximity to international schools, and quick access to both central Nicosia and the buffer zone. It offers a balance of peaceful living and urban convenience.

Dereboyu Avenue, by contrast, is Nicosia’s main commercial and social artery. Running along the buffer zone near the old city walls, it's lined with cafes, restaurants, shops, and nightlife. Its lively, cosmopolitan vibe appeals to younger expats and professionals looking for a dynamic urban lifestyle in North Cyprus.

Which One of These Places in North Cyprus is Right For You?

With its sunny Mediterranean climate, welcoming expat communities, and cost of living that allows for a higher quality of life, North Cyprus offers an ideal setting for those seeking a fresh start abroad. Whether you’re dreaming of a laid-back seaside village, a dynamic city center, or a family-friendly town with room to grow, this region has something to suit every lifestyle and life stage.

From the peaceful charm of Tatlısu and Esentepe to the vibrant energy of Kyrenia and the cosmopolitan flair of Dereboyu, each area brings its own character and advantages. But no matter where you choose to settle, one thing remains constant—the sense of safety, community, and opportunity that draws people here year after year.

So, is North Cyprus a good place to live? For many expats who’ve already made the move, the answer is a resounding yes. It’s a place where your lifestyle can flourish without compromise—where you can slow down, reconnect, and truly feel at home.

Take your time to explore, connect with locals and fellow expats, and find the spot that speaks to you. Whether you’re relocating for retirement, remote work, or a new adventure altogether, North Cyprus may just be the place where your next chapter begins.

Ready to make it happen? Start exploring today, and you might soon find yourself calling this Mediterranean gem your new home.

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