Cyprus Property Market Update: May 2026 Sales Overview

The Cyprus real estate sector continues its steady climb in May 2026, building on a year marked by consistent growth. According to data from the Department of Lands and Surveys, May saw 1,723 new property sale contracts registered—a 5% increase from May 2025.

Cypriots Lead Domestic Sales, Regional Variations Emerge

Local buyers remain the backbone of the market, driving 62.7% of the month’s transactions with 1,081 sales. Compared to the same month last year, this reflects a healthy 6% increase. However, district-level patterns reveal a more nuanced picture. Sales in Nicosia and Famagusta declined by 13% and 37% respectively, while Paphos witnessed a standout 34% surge, reaching 147 transactions. Limassol and Larnaca also recorded respectable 8% growth, with 368 and 256 sales respectively.

Robust Uptick in EU Buyer Activity, Especially in Coastal Areas

European Union nationals showcased the strongest month-over-month growth among buyer groups. May’s EU buyer contracts jumped 31%, totaling 241 deals compared to 184 a year earlier. Paphos remains a hotspot for EU investors, with an 83% year-over-year increase to 88 sales, while Famagusta and Larnaca flourished with 82% and 50% growth respectively. Nicosia saw minimal gains, and Limassol was the only district with a decline (-18% to 56 sales).

Non-EU Buyer Demand Steady Despite Minor Monthly Dip

Non-EU buyers contributed 401 property purchases in May, a slight 1% dip from 405 the previous year. The fall was most pronounced in Nicosia (-27%) and to a lesser degree Limassol (-6%) and Paphos (-3%). Conversely, Larnaca and Famagusta attracted increased foreign interest with rises of 13% and 10%, respectively. Year-to-date figures confirm a strong rebound for non-EU purchasers across all districts, highlighting their vital role in Cyprus’ property market.

Foreign Buyers Continue to Dominate Key Districts

Paphos stands out as the top region influenced by overseas buyers, where combined EU and non-EU transactions outnumber those of local buyers more than twofold. This dynamic underscores Cyprus’ ongoing appeal for international investors and lifestyle buyers, providing resilience amid global economic uncertainties.

Overall, May’s data points to a balanced and dynamic Cyprus property market driven by steady domestic demand alongside sustained enthusiasm from foreign investors. Those interested in exploring currently available options can browse Cheap Houses and Villas for Sale Cyprus or explore Affordable Apartments across Cyprus to capitalize on emerging opportunities.