The reasonable cost of living in Malta is one of the archipelago's major drawcards. While it's true that Maltese salaries are significantly lower than in other parts of Europe, so is the cost of living, evening out into a comfortable and affordable lifestyle.
Valletta, the Maltese capital, and Sliema are popular with expats. They offer resorts, retail shops and modern housing and are generally more expensive and populated than other areas.
Cost of accommodation in Malta
It's possible to find a modern, furnished property with one to three bedrooms and a small garden and get better value for money in Malta than in major European destinations such as the UK. Utilities are also less expensive, and most rentals come furnished.
Expats should choose where they want to live carefully, as their decision can be the difference between affordable and expensive rental costs. Accommodation in smaller outlying towns is cheaper than in major cities. In larger cities, the city centre will have the highest rental costs, with prices decreasing the further away one moves from the centre. Newer property developments are also more expensive than older homes. That said, these will typically require less maintenance.
Cost of groceries in Malta
Local products are cheaper than imported brands, and supermarkets are more affordable than smaller grocery stores. Produce from roadside markets is inexpensive and fresh.
Cost of entertainment and eating out in Malta
Eating out in Malta is also cheaper than in much of Europe. Restaurants aimed at locals are moderately priced, while entertainment in tourist areas are less budget-friendly.
Cost of education in Malta
Public education in Malta is free, including transport and textbooks. The curriculum is modelled on the British education system, but the language of instruction is Maltese. As a result, many expats enrol their children in private or international schools. Parents moving for work who intend to enrol their children in an international school are advised to negotiate with their employer for education subsidies because the fees are exorbitant.
Cost of transport in Malta
Getting around in Malta is relatively easy and cheap thanks to the island's small size. Most expats find the bus and ferry system adequate for their travelling needs, using taxi services as an adjunct where necessary. Generally though, cars are a more expensive option due to taxes, insurance and petrol. Street parking is usually free of charge, but spaces are limited.
Cost of living in Malta chart
Prices may vary depending on product and service provider. The list below shows average prices for Valletta in October 2022.
Accommodation (monthly) |
|
One-bedroom apartment in city centre |
EUR 930 |
One-bedroom apartment outside of city centre |
EUR 800 |
Three-bedroom apartment in city centre |
EUR 2,500 |
Three-bedroom apartment outside of city centre |
EUR 1,400 |
Shopping |
|
Eggs (dozen) |
EUR 3 |
Milk (1 litre) |
EUR 1.14 |
Rice (1kg) |
EUR 2.73 |
Loaf of white bread |
EUR 1.56 |
Chicken breasts (1kg) |
EUR 10.96 |
Pack of cigarettes (Marlboro) |
EUR 5.09 |
Eating out |
|
Big Mac Meal |
EUR 8 |
Coca-Cola (330ml) |
EUR 2 |
Cappuccino |
EUR 3 |
Bottle of beer (local) |
EUR 3 |
Three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant |
EUR 80 |
Utilities |
|
Mobile-to-mobile call rate (per minute) |
EUR 0.27 |
Internet (uncapped ADSL or cable – average per month) |
EUR 44 |
Basic utilities (per month for small apartment) |
EUR 92 |
Transport |
|
Taxi rate (per kilometre) |
EUR 3.60 |
Bus/train fare in the city centre |
EUR 1.50 |
Petrol/gasoline (per litre) |
EUR 1.40 |
Further reading
►Learn more about managing your finances in Banking, Money and Taxes in Malta
Expat Experiences
"Housing became expensive in recent years with the expat and gaming companies boom. Groceries, transport, petrol, utilities (there is no heating in the houses, they use portable options or AC for the colder months), restaurants, entertainment and other commodities are the same as in Italy, Spain or other economically similar EU countries."
Learn more about the expat experience in Malta in our interview with Hungarian expat Marianna.
Are you an expat living in Malta?
Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Malta. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute.
Expat Health Insurance
Cigna Global
If you’re thinking about taking out private health insurance, our trusted partner Cigna Global is very aware of all the difficulties that expats can face when it comes to healthcare in a new location, so they have created a range of international health insurance plans specifically designed for expats, which you can tailor exactly to the needs and ensure access to quality care for you and your family.
Moving Companies
Moving Internationally?
Sirelo has a network of more than 500 international removal companies that can move your furniture and possessions to your new home. By filling in a form, you’ll get up to 5 quotes from recommended movers. This service is free of charge and will help you select an international moving company that suits your needs and budget.