Population of Cyprus

Today, we delve into the intriguing realm of Cyprus population, exploring the demographics and dynamics that shape the unique social landscape of this Mediterranean island.

Around A.D. 1000, Cyprus was home to an estimated 150,000 Greek-speaking inhabitants, a number that grew to 200,000 by 1500. However, the Turkish invasion in 1570 had a profound impact, reducing the population. Despite the subsequent influx of Turks, wars, and plagues took their toll, causing the population to dwindle to 110,000 by 1700. Over time, a gradual resurgence occurred, reaching 230,000 in 1925. By 1960, the census reported a significant increase with 577,615 inhabitants, rising to 640,000 in 1975. In 1998, the population reached 729,800, encompassing Greeks, Turks, and other communities, including English and Armenians. Key cities such as Nikosia, Limassol, Larnaka, and Pafos played pivotal roles in this demographic evolution, reflecting a complex interplay of historical events and influences. Famagusta, though currently under Turkish occupation, had a population of 39,000 in 1982.

As of 2023, Cyprus boasts a population of 1,260,138, reflecting a 0.69% rise from the preceding year. In 2022, the population stood at 1,251,488, marking a 0.59% increase from 2021. The population in 2021 reached 1,244,188, showcasing a 0.54% growth compared to 2020. In 2020, the population of Cyprus was 1,237,537, experiencing a 0.71% increase from 2019.

Based on recent reports from the Greek Cypriot press, the northern part of Cyprus is said to be home to a significant population, with approximately 50,000 Russians, 15,000 Iranians, and 140,000 citizens from the Republic of Turkey. These figures sum up to an estimated 583,586 individuals, according to official estimates.

Cyprus currently maintains a population density of 136 individuals per square kilometer (353 people per square mile). The population is experiencing a modest growth rate of 0.5% per year, indicating a gradual increase in the number of inhabitants.

The religious landscape in Cyprus is predominantly Eastern Orthodox, constituting 89.1% of the population. Roman Catholics make up 2.9%, while Protestant/Anglican adherents account for 2.0%. The Muslim community represents 1.8%, and Buddhists comprise 1.0%. Other religious affiliations, including Maronite, Armenian Christian, and Hindu, collectively make up 1.4%. A small percentage, 0.6%, identifies as having no religion or being atheist, and 1.1% is unspecified in terms of religious affiliation.

Approximately 1.8% of the population residing in the government-controlled areas of the Republic of Cyprus follows the Islamic faith, whereas Muslims make up around 25% of the entire island's population, encompassing both government-controlled areas and the illegally occupied regions in the north. The Ottoman General Lala Mustafa Pasha captured the island from the Venetians in 1570 A.D., leading to Turkish settlement between 1571 and 1878 A.D., primarily for administrative, military, and tax-related purposes. Turkish Cypriots predominantly adhere to the Sunni branch of Islam, with Sufism playing a significant role.

Historically, Muslims were dispersed throughout Cyprus, but since the Turkish invasion in 1974, they have predominantly resided in the northern part of the island. The Ahmadiyya community also has a presence in the north.

Cyprus is home to several notable Islamic shrines and landmarks, including the Arabahmet Mosque in Nicosia, constructed in the 16th century, and the Hala Sultan Tekke/Umm Haram Mosque in Larnaca, built in the 18th century.

Sunni Islam holds the predominant religious affiliation among the population, with approximately 99% adhering to this faith. Orthodox Christianity constitutes 0.5% of the population, while the remaining segment encompasses various Christian denominations and other religious groups.

The entire populace of Cyprus belongs to the Caucasian racial group.

Here is the top 10 list of cities in Cyprus based on population:

1. Nicosia (Lefkosía) - 330,000
2. Limassol (Lemesós) - 235,056
3. Larnaca (Lárnaka) - 84,900
4. Paphos (Páfos) - 63,600
5. Famagusta (Ammóchostos) - 40,920
6. Kyrenia (Kerýneia) - 33,207
7. Kato Polemidia (Káto Polemídia) - 22,369
8. Aradippou (Aradíppou) - 19,199
9. Latsia (Latsia) - 16,774
10. Paralimni (Paralímni) - 14,963

The majority of the population in Cyprus identifies as Greek, encompassing 98.8%. The remaining 1% consists of various ethnic groups, such as Maronite, Armenian, and Turkish-Cypriot. Additionally, 0.2% falls into the unspecified category.

The Indian community in Cyprus is estimated to be around 3,000 people.

Nearly 660,000 individuals on the controlled territory of the Republic of Cyprus identify as Greek.

Prior to the conflict in 1973, the northern part of the island was home to approximately 162,041 Greek Cypriots, while the southern part had around 72,000 Turkish Cypriots residing there.

The population range varies from 300,000 to over 650,000, with the higher estimate encompassing descendants of early twentieth-century muhacirs.

Russian Cypriots (Total Population: 18,000-50,000)

Ethnic composition in Northern Cyprus:

• Turks (99.2%)
• Greeks (0.2%)
• English (0.2%)
• Maronites (0.1%)
• Other (0.3%)