Is it worth investing in studios in Northern Cyprus?

• Actual Area and Square Footage
• Competition and Occupancy
• Comparison of Studios with Other Formats
• When a Studio Can Be a Justified Investment

Actual Area and Square Footage

Many beginner investors consider studios in Northern Cyprus as the first and affordable entry option into the market. However, the actual area of such properties is often smaller than stated. For example, a studio listed in the contract as 45 m² may in practice be only 35 m² due to measurement methods and common area considerations.

This directly affects tenant comfort and rental income, as rent is determined not only by location but also by the actual size of the property.

Competition and Occupancy

The studio market in Northern Cyprus is oversaturated. Most properties are purchased for rental purposes, creating high competition. As a result, owners often have to lower prices to maintain occupancy.

At the same time, demand for studios is limited: single tourists or couples without children often choose hotels with included services, while families prefer 1+1 or 2+1 apartments.

Comparison of Studios with Other Formats

The myth that two studios are more profitable than one 2+1 apartment is not always confirmed in practice. Larger apartments have higher occupancy and lower overall expenses — for furniture, utilities, and maintenance.

According to realtors’ estimates, the average annual return of studios in Northern Cyprus is about 4–5%, whereas 1+1 and 2+1 apartments yield up to 7–8%.

When a Studio Can Be a Justified Investment

A studio may be a reasonable choice if the investor:

• has a limited budget and wants to start with a minimal entry point;
• plans short-term rentals in a tourist complex;
• buys a property in a location with low supply (e.g., near the sea or a university).

In other cases, it is better to consider a 1+1 or 2+1 format, which provides more stable income and flexibility for resale.

A studio is not a magical artifact guaranteeing income. It is a compromise solution for a cautious start in investments.