Cost of Living in Malta: Your Complete Expat Guide for 2025

Let's be honest – when you're thinking about moving to Malta, the first question that probably keeps you up at night is: "Can I actually afford to live there?"

You're not alone. Every week, we get messages from potential expats asking whether their salary will stretch far enough to enjoy Malta's sunny lifestyle without ending up eating instant noodles for dinner every night.

Here's the good news: Malta offers one of the more affordable European lifestyles if you know where to look and how to budget smartly. But like any Mediterranean island with a booming expat community, costs have been rising, and there are definitely some eye-watering price tags if you're not careful.

In this complete guide, we'll break down exactly what it costs to live in Malta as an expat in 2025, from the prime spots in Sliema to the quieter corners of Gozo. We'll also share insider tips from expats who've been there, done that, and learned how to make their euros go further.

The Big Picture: What Does It Really Cost to Live in Malta?

Before we dive into the details, let's get straight to the numbers you're probably looking for.

The bottom line: A single expat needs between €1,500-€2,500 per month to live comfortably in Malta, depending on your lifestyle and where you choose to live. A couple should budget €2,500-€3,500 monthly, while families with children typically need €3,500-€5,000.

Now, before you start panicking about those higher figures, remember that "comfortable" means different things to different people. Some of our expat friends live quite happily on €1,200 a month by sharing apartments and cooking at home, while others spend €4,000 monthly on a luxury lifestyle in St. Julian's with weekly dinners at high-end restaurants.

The key is understanding where your money goes and making informed choices about what matters most to you.

Housing: The Elephant in the Room (And Your Biggest Monthly Expense)

Let's start with the biggest chunk of your budget – housing. In Malta, like most desirable destinations, location is everything, and the price differences between areas can be staggering.

The Premium Zones: Sliema and St. Julian's

If you've been browsing rental listings in Sliema and St. Julian's, you've probably experienced a bit of sticker shock. These areas are Malta's Manhattan – convenient, vibrant, and expensive.

What you'll pay:

One-bedroom apartment: €900-€1,400 per month
Two-bedroom apartment: €1,400-€2,200 per month
Three-bedroom apartment: €2,000-€3,500 per month

"I was shocked when I first looked at Sliema prices," says Marco, an Italian software developer who moved to Malta in 2023. "But then I realized I was paying for convenience – I can walk to work, the beach, and all the best restaurants. When you factor in transport costs and time, it actually makes financial sense."

The Sweet Spot: Gzira, Msida, and Ta' Xbiex

These areas offer the best of both worlds – proximity to the action without the premium price tag. Many expats consider these the "Goldilocks zones" of Malta.

What you'll pay:

One-bedroom apartment: €700-€1,100 per month
Two-bedroom apartment: €1,100-€1,700 per month
Three-bedroom apartment: €1,600-€2,500 per month

Sarah, a British marketing manager, found her perfect setup in Gzira: "I pay €950 for a lovely one-bedroom with a balcony, and I'm a 10-minute walk from St. Julian's. Best decision I made was looking slightly outside the obvious areas."

The Value Champions: Central and Southern Malta

Areas like Mosta, Birkirkara, and the southern regions offer the most space for your money, though you'll need to factor in transport time to the main business districts.

What you'll pay:

One-bedroom apartment: €600-€900 per month
Two-bedroom apartment: €900-€1,400 per month
Three-bedroom apartment: €1,200-€2,000 per month

The Wild Card: Gozo

Malta's sister island offers stunning natural beauty and significantly lower costs, but you'll need to love the ferry lifestyle.

What you'll pay:

One-bedroom apartment: €500-€800 per month
Two-bedroom apartment: €700-€1,200 per month
Three-bedroom apartment: €1,000-€1,600 per month

"Gozo is paradise if you work remotely," explains David, a German tech consultant. "My two-bedroom apartment with sea views costs what a studio would in Sliema. The ferry is actually quite romantic – I use the 25-minute crossing to plan my day."

Housing Pro Tips from Malta Expats

1. Timing is everything: The best rental deals appear in October and November when the summer tourists leave.

2. Consider co-living: Many expats share apartments, especially in premium areas. Check Malta Expat Community Facebook groups for roommate opportunities.

3. Negotiate boldly: Unlike many countries, rental prices in Malta are often negotiable, especially for longer-term contracts.

4. Factor in the extras: Many rental prices don't include utilities, which can add €100-€200 monthly.

5. Look beyond the obvious: Areas like Pembroke, San Gwann, and Swieqi offer excellent value and are increasingly popular with expats.

Food and Dining: Mediterranean Flavors on Every Budget

Malta's food scene is a delightful mix of Mediterranean influences, British leftovers, and international flavors brought by the expat community. The good news? You can eat very well without breaking the bank.

Grocery Shopping: Smart Strategies for Every Budget

Monthly grocery budget for one person: €250-€400 Monthly grocery budget for a couple: €400-€600 Monthly grocery budget for a family of four: €600-€900

The secret to affordable grocery shopping in Malta is knowing where to shop and when. Here's your insider's guide:

Supermarket hierarchy (from budget to premium):

Lidl – Your best friend for basics and surprisingly good wine
Scotts – Local chain with competitive prices
Piscopo – Mid-range with good local produce
Greens – Higher-end but excellent quality
Welbee's – Premium imported goods

"I do a weekly shop at Lidl for staples and then hit the local markets for fresh produce," says Anna, a Polish teacher living in Valletta. "I spend maybe €60-70 per week and eat incredibly well."

Local Markets: Fresh and Affordable

Don't miss Malta's fantastic local markets for the freshest produce at unbeatable prices:

Marsaxlokk Fish Market (Sundays) – Fresh fish straight from the boats
Ta' Qali Crafts Village (weekends) – Local produce and artisanal goods
Valletta Farmers Market (Saturdays) – Organic and local specialties

Dining Out: From Budget Bites to Splurge-Worthy Experiences

Malta's restaurant scene caters to every budget, from €3 pastizzi to €50 fine dining experiences.

Casual dining budget breakdown:

Pastizzi (local snack): €0.50-€1.00
Lunch at a local café: €8-€15
Casual dinner for two: €30-€50
Mid-range restaurant (three courses): €50-€80
Fine dining experience: €80-€150

The key to eating well on a budget is mixing home cooking with strategic dining out. Many expats follow the "80/20 rule" – cooking at home 80% of the time and splurging on restaurants 20% of the time.

Hidden Food Costs to Watch Out For

1. Imported specialties: Your favorite brand of peanut butter might cost €8 in Malta when it's €3 back home.

2. Alcohol in restaurants: Wine markups can be steep – a bottle that costs €6 in the shop might be €25 in a restaurant.

3. Delivery fees: Food delivery apps are convenient but add €2-€5 per order in fees.

4. Tourist trap areas: That beachside café in St. Julian's might charge €8 for a sandwich that costs €4 elsewhere.

Expat Food Hacks That Save Money

"I joined a buying group where we order organic produce in bulk directly from Sicilian farmers," reveals Christina, a Canadian expat. "We get amazing tomatoes, olive oil, and cheese for half the supermarket price."

Other money-saving strategies include:

Cooking clubs: Some expat groups organize communal cooking sessions
Happy hour hunting: Many restaurants offer early dinner specials
Lunch deals: Business lunches often offer better value than dinners
BYOB restaurants: Some places let you bring your own wine for a small corkage fee

Transportation: Getting Around Without Breaking the Bank

Here's where Malta really shines for budget-conscious expats – getting around the island is both affordable and increasingly convenient.

Public Transport: Your Best Friend

Malta's public transport system is efficient, extensive, and incredibly affordable. In fact, it's so good that many expats never bother buying a car.

Public transport costs:

Single journey: €1.50 (winter) / €2.00 (summer)
7-day pass: €21
Monthly pass: €26
Annual pass: €312

"I've been living in Malta for two years and still don't have a car," says Ahmed, an Egyptian IT consultant. "The buses run frequently, and for €26 a month, I can get anywhere on the island. Plus, I can work on my laptop during the commute."

For those late-night dinners or when you're running late, taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available:

Typical taxi/ride-sharing costs:

Short trip (within locality): €8-€12
Cross-island journey: €20-€35
Airport transfers: €15-€25

Popular apps:

Bolt – Generally the cheapest option
eCabs – Local favorite with reliable service
Uber – Recent arrival, competitive pricing

Owning a Car: Is It Worth It?

Many expats wonder whether they should buy a car in Malta. The honest answer? It depends on your lifestyle and where you live.

Monthly car ownership costs:

Car payment/rental: €200-€500
Insurance: €100-€200
Fuel: €120-€200
Parking: €50-€150
Maintenance: €50-€100

Total monthly cost: €520-€1,150

"I bought a car after six months because I was spending too much on taxis for weekend trips to Gozo and the quieter beaches," explains Jennifer, an American marketing executive. "But honestly, during the week, I still take the bus to work – parking in Sliema is a nightmare."

Transportation Pro Tips

1. Get the Tallinja card: Malta's public transport card offers the best rates and convenience.

2. Walk more than you think: Malta's compact size means many destinations are walkable.

3. Consider a scooter: Popular with expats for short trips and easy parking.

4. Share rides: Many expat groups organize car-sharing for weekend trips.

5. Time your journeys: Traffic in Malta can be heavy, especially around rush hours.

Utilities and Internet: The Hidden Monthly Costs

These essential services can add up, but there are ways to manage costs effectively.

Electricity and Water: Seasonal Variations

Malta's utility costs vary significantly by season, largely due to air conditioning needs during the hot summer months.

Monthly utility costs for different apartment sizes:

One-bedroom apartment: €80-€150
Two-bedroom apartment: €120-€200
Three-bedroom apartment: €150-€300

"My first summer in Malta was a shock – my electricity bill tripled due to air conditioning," admits Rachel, a British teacher. "Now I'm smarter about it – I invested in good fans and only use AC when absolutely necessary."

Internet and Mobile: Stay Connected

Malta has excellent internet infrastructure, making it popular with remote workers and digital nomads.

Internet costs:

Basic home internet (50 Mbps): €25-€35/month
Premium internet (200+ Mbps): €40-€60/month
Mobile plans with data: €20-€40/month

Popular providers:

Melita – Fastest speeds, premium pricing
GO – Comprehensive packages, good value
Epic – Competitive mobile plans

Money-Saving Utility Tips

1. Choose your apartment wisely: Top-floor apartments cost more to cool, ground-floor apartments stay cooler naturally.

2. Invest in energy-efficient appliances: The upfront cost pays off in lower bills.

3. Use ceiling fans: They're much cheaper than air conditioning and often sufficient.

4. Bundle services: Many providers offer discounts for combining internet, TV, and mobile.

5. Consider solar panels: If you're buying property, solar panels can significantly reduce electricity costs.

Healthcare: Quality Care at Reasonable Prices

Malta's healthcare system is one of the best in Europe, and costs are generally very reasonable compared to other developed countries.

Public Healthcare: EU Citizens Have It Made

EU citizens can access Malta's public healthcare system using their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). This covers emergency care and necessary treatments.

Private Healthcare: Fast and Affordable

Many expats choose private healthcare for shorter waiting times and more personalized service.

Private healthcare costs:

Basic private insurance: €300-€600/year
Comprehensive private insurance: €800-€1,500/year
Private GP consultation: €20-€40
Specialist consultation: €60-€100
Dental checkup: €50-€80

"I pay €45 per month for comprehensive private health insurance," says Luis, a Spanish architect. "It covers everything, including dental, and I can see any specialist within days. Back in Barcelona, I'd wait months for the same appointment."

Prescription Medications

Malta follows EU regulations for pharmaceuticals, making most medications readily available and affordable.

Typical prescription costs:

Common medications: €5-€20
Chronic condition medications: €10-€50/month
Emergency medications: Usually under €30

Education: International Schools and Local Options

For expat families, education costs can be significant, but Malta offers excellent options at various price points.

Public Schools: Free but Maltese-Focused

Malta's public schools are free for all residents, but instruction is primarily in Maltese with English as a second language.

Private International Schools: Quality Education with Price Tags

Most expat families choose private international schools for English-language education.

Annual tuition costs:

Local private schools: €3,000-€6,000
International schools (British curriculum): €8,000-€15,000
Premium international schools: €15,000-€25,000

Popular international schools:

Verdala International School – American curriculum
QSI International School – American/IB programs
St. Catherine's High School – British curriculum

"We chose Verdala for our two kids, and while it's €20,000 per year total, the quality is outstanding," says Michael, an Australian finance manager. "The teachers are excellent, and the facilities rival anything we had back home."

Education Support Costs

Don't forget to budget for:

School uniforms: €100-€200 per child
School supplies: €100-€200 per child/year
After-school activities: €50-€200/month
School transport: €100-€200/month

Malta's social scene is vibrant, and there's something for every budget and interest.

Free and Low-Cost Activities

Malta offers plenty of free entertainment:

Beach days: Dozens of beautiful beaches
Hiking: Coastal walks and countryside trails
Cultural events: Many festivals and concerts are free
Historical sites: Many are free or very affordable

Paid Entertainment: Budgeting for Fun

Monthly entertainment budget:

Minimalist lifestyle: €100-€200
Moderate social life: €300-€500
Active party lifestyle: €600-€1,000+

Typical entertainment costs:

Cinema tickets: €8-€12
Gym membership: €40-€80/month
Beach club day pass: €20-€50
Concert tickets: €30-€80
Weekend trip to Sicily: €150-€300

"Joining the Malta Hash House Harriers was the best decision I made for my social life," says Patricia, a Canadian nurse. "It's a running club that meets weekly, costs €5 per run, and I've met most of my best friends through it."

Popular expat groups include:

Malta Expat Community – General networking
Malta Running Club – Fitness and socializing
Malta Hiking Group – Weekend adventures
Malta Entrepreneurs Network – Business networking

Real Expat Budgets: What People Actually Spend

Here are real budgets from expats living in Malta, shared with permission:

Budget Example 1: Single Professional (Tech Worker)

Location: Gzira Monthly Income: €2,800 Monthly Expenses:

Rent (1-bedroom): €900
Utilities: €100
Food: €300
Transportation: €50
Entertainment: €200
Savings: €400
Miscellaneous: €150
Total spent: €1,700
Money left over: €1,100

"I live comfortably and save about 40% of my income. Malta's been great for my career and my wallet."

Budget Example 2: Expat Couple (Both Working)

Location: Sliema Combined Monthly Income: €4,500 Monthly Expenses:

Rent (2-bedroom): €1,600
Utilities: €150
Food: €500
Transportation: €100
Entertainment: €400
Travel: €300
Savings: €800
Miscellaneous: €250
Total spent: €4,100
Money left over: €400

"We could save more, but we love traveling around Europe on weekends. Malta's central location makes it so easy."

Budget Example 3: Family of Four

Location: Mosta Monthly Income: €5,200 Monthly Expenses:

Rent (3-bedroom): €1,800
Utilities: €200
Food: €800
Transportation: €150
School fees: €1,500
Entertainment: €300
Savings: €300
Miscellaneous: €350
Total spent: €5,100
Money left over: €100

"It's tight, but we're living the dream. The kids love their school, and we're 10 minutes from the beach."

Seasonal Spending: Summer vs Winter Costs

Malta's costs fluctuate seasonally, and understanding these patterns can help you budget better.

Summer (June-September): Higher Costs

Accommodation: Tourist demand drives up short-term rental prices
Utilities: Air conditioning costs soar
Activities: Beach clubs and summer events cost more
Food: Tourist-area restaurants increase prices

Winter (October-May): Better Value

Accommodation: Better rental deals as tourist demand drops
Utilities: Minimal heating costs due to mild weather
Activities: Many cultural events and activities are free
Food: Restaurant prices normalize

"I always negotiate my rent in October when the summer tourists leave," advises Emma, a British marketing consultant. "Landlords are more flexible, and you can often get better terms."

Hidden Costs and Unexpected Expenses

Every expat discovers some costs they didn't expect. Here are the common surprises:

The "Expat Tax"

Some services cost more if you're obviously foreign:

Taxi rides: Always insist on the meter
Utility installations: Shop around for quotes
Apartment deposits: Often 2-3 months' rent upfront

Import and Shipping Costs

Moving your belongings to Malta can be expensive:

Shipping a car: €800-€1,500
Furniture shipping: €2,000-€5,000
Import duties: 10-20% on many items

Professional Services

Accountant: €500-€1,500/year
Lawyer: €150-€300/hour
Residency application: €300-€500

Emergency Fund Recommendations

Build an emergency fund covering:

3-6 months of expenses
Potential medical costs
Unexpected travel needs
Appliance replacements

Money-Saving Strategies: Tips from Seasoned Expats

The "Malta Mindset" for Saving Money

"The key to living affordably in Malta is embracing the local lifestyle," explains Roberto, an Italian engineer who's been in Malta for five years. "Shop at local markets, eat like a Maltese person, and don't try to recreate your expensive home country habits."

Top 10 Money-Saving Tips

1. Shop seasonally: Buy summer clothes in autumn, winter gear in spring.

2. Join buying groups: Expat communities often organize bulk buying for better prices.

3. Use apps: Download loyalty apps for major supermarkets and restaurants.

4. Cook at home: Maltese ingredients are affordable – master some local recipes.

5. Choose location wisely: Living slightly outside premium areas saves hundreds monthly.

6. Bundle services: Combine internet, mobile, and TV for better rates.

7. Take advantage of free activities: Malta has incredible free beaches, hiking, and cultural events.

8. Shop around for insurance: Prices vary significantly between providers.

9. Use public transport: It's excellent and incredibly affordable.

10. Network with other expats: They're your best source for deals and tips.

The "Malta Multiplier" Effect

Many expats find their money goes further in Malta than expected because:

No car needed in many areas
Excellent public healthcare reduces medical costs
Free beaches and outdoor activities replace expensive gym memberships
Mild climate reduces utility costs most of the year
Central location makes European travel affordable

Comparing Malta to Other European Destinations

How does Malta stack up against other popular expat destinations?

Malta vs. Portugal

Housing: Malta more expensive in prime areas, Portugal better value overall
Food: Similar costs, Malta slightly higher
Transportation: Malta significantly cheaper
Overall: Portugal offers better value for money

Malta vs. Cyprus

Housing: Very similar costs
Food: Malta slightly more expensive
Transportation: Malta much better public transport
Overall: Very comparable, Malta has better location

Malta vs. Spain

Housing: Malta more expensive than most Spanish cities
Food: Spain significantly cheaper
Transportation: Malta better public transport
Overall: Spain offers better value for money

Malta vs. Ireland

Housing: Malta significantly cheaper
Food: Malta much cheaper
Transportation: Malta much cheaper
Overall: Malta offers much better value

Special Considerations for Different Expat Types

Digital Nomads and Remote Workers

Advantages:

Excellent internet infrastructure
Growing coworking scene
English-speaking environment
Great weather for outdoor workspaces

Budget considerations:

Factor in higher summer utility costs
Consider shared coworking spaces (€200-€400/month)
Malta's central location makes European travel easy

Retirees

Advantages:

Excellent healthcare system
Mild climate year-round
Strong expat community
Malta Retirement Programme offers tax benefits

Budget considerations:

Healthcare costs are very reasonable
Many cultural activities are free or low-cost
Consider quieter areas like Gozo for better value

Families with Children

Advantages:

Excellent international schools
Safe environment
Family-friendly culture
Easy access to beaches and outdoor activities

Budget considerations:

School fees are significant (€8,000-€25,000/year)
Consider family-friendly areas like Mellieħa or Mosta
Factor in school transport costs

Young Professionals

Advantages:

Vibrant social scene
Growing job market in tech and finance
Easy to meet other expats
Excellent nightlife and dining

Budget considerations:

Consider shared accommodation
Take advantage of happy hours and student discounts
Use public transport instead of taxis

Getting Started: Your First Month Budget Checklist

Before You Arrive

Research and prepare:

Set up bank account online if possible
Research areas and accommodation
Get quotes for shipping belongings
Arrange temporary accommodation for first few weeks

Essential First Month Costs

Immediate expenses:

Temporary accommodation: €50-€100/night
Apartment deposit: 2-3 months rent
Utility connections: €100-€200
Initial groceries: €200-€300
Transport pass: €26
Phone SIM card: €10-€20
Basic furniture: €500-€2,000

Total first month budget: €3,000-€8,000 (depending on apartment choice)

Setting Up Your Financial Life

1. Open a local bank account: Most apartments require local bank transfers for rent.

2. Set up direct debits: For utilities and regular expenses.

3. Get a local credit card: Builds credit history and offers better rates.

4. Register for tax: If you're employed locally or self-employed.

5. Consider currency exchange: Services like Wise or Revolut offer better rates than traditional banks.

The Future of Costs in Malta: What to Expect

Trends Affecting Living Costs

Population growth: Malta's population has grown by 40% since 2000, increasing demand for housing and services.

EU membership benefits: Continue to keep many costs stable through free trade.

Tourism recovery: Post-COVID tourism rebound is driving up accommodation and restaurant prices.

Infrastructure investment: Government spending on transport and utilities should improve services.

Climate change: Increasing temperatures may drive up summer utility costs.

5-Year Cost Projections

Housing: Expect continued increases of 3-5% annually in prime areas.

Food: Should remain stable due to EU trade agreements.

Transportation: Likely to improve with new infrastructure investments.

Utilities: May increase due to climate change and increased demand.

Healthcare: Should remain stable due to EU regulations.

Conclusion: Is Malta Right for Your Budget?

Malta offers an excellent quality of life for expats, but it's not the cheapest European destination. Here's who Malta works best for:

Malta is Great If You:

Value convenience and English-speaking environment
Want excellent weather and outdoor lifestyle
Are working in tech, finance, or iGaming
Like being part of a vibrant expat community
Want easy access to Europe for travel

Consider Other Options If You:

Are on a very tight budget (under €1,500/month)
Want lots of space for your money
Prefer big city amenities
Are very price-sensitive about food costs
Want to avoid tourist crowds

The Bottom Line

"Malta isn't the cheapest place to live, but it offers incredible value for what you get," sums up Patricia, a Canadian nurse who's been in Malta for three years. "Where else can you walk to work, swim in the Mediterranean at lunch, and be in Rome for a weekend trip? When you look at the total lifestyle package, Malta is actually a bargain."

The key to living affordably in Malta is understanding where to spend and where to save. Choose your location wisely, embrace the local lifestyle, and don't try to recreate your home country's expensive habits. With smart budgeting and the right mindset, Malta can offer an incredibly rich life without breaking the bank.

Remember, these costs are based on current market conditions and real expat experiences. Always do your own research and consider your personal circumstances when making the move. Welcome to Malta – where the sun shines 300 days a year, and your morning commute might just include a Mediterranean sea breeze.

Ready to take the next step? Join our Malta Expat Community to connect with other expats, get real-time cost updates, and find your perfect apartment. Your Maltese adventure awaits!