Malta, the sun-kissed Mediterranean island, is known for its stunning coastline, rich history, and vibrant culture. It’s a popular destination for expats, retirees, and freelancers looking to experience life on an island with a warm climate and European lifestyle. But, one crucial question remains for those considering a move: what is the cost of living in Malta? In this article, we will explore the various aspects of the cost of living in Malta, including housing, transportation, food, healthcare, and more.
1. Housing Costs in Malta
When it comes to cost of living in Malta, one of the biggest factors to consider is housing. The island has experienced a boom in demand for both short-term rentals and long-term housing in recent years, which has driven prices higher, especially in popular areas like Valletta, Sliema, and St. Julian’s.
When it comes to renting a property in Malta, costs can fluctuate greatly based on the location and the type of accommodation. Apartments in central areas like Valletta or Sliema tend to be more expensive, while those located on the outskirts or in quieter, less touristy neighbourhoods offer more affordable options.
| Type of Housing | Monthly Cost (EUR) | Monthly Cost (USD) |
| 1-bedroom in city center (Valletta, Sliema, St. Julian’s) | €900-1,100 | ~$975-1,200 |
| 1-bedroom outside the center | €800 | ~$870 |
| Shared room or flat share | €400–€600 | ~$435–$650 |
For those looking to buy property in Malta, the average price per square meter in the city center is about €3,000-€7,000 ($3,250-$7,575), with prices dropping in less central areas.
For more details on finding accommodation, rental procedures, and tips for expats, check out this helpful guide on housing in Malta.
2. Transportation Expenses
Another major aspect of the cost of living in Malta is transportation. Fortunately, Malta has a well-developed public transportation system, with buses connecting all major towns and cities. A monthly public transport pass costs about €26 ($28) and single tickets range from €1.50 to €2 ($1.65) which is relatively affordable compared to other European countries.
If you prefer more convenience, taxis are also available, although they can be quite expensive. A short taxi ride within the city might cost you between €10-€15 ($11-$16). Alternatively, you can also use ride-hailing apps like Bolt or Uber, which are generally cheaper than traditional taxis.
For those who prefer to drive, renting a car costs about €20-€30 ($22-$32) per day, depending on the type of vehicle. Gas prices are similar to the European average, and the price of petrol is around €1.30 per litter ($1.40).
You can find more information about routes, schedules, and transport passes using the official Tallinja app, which is highly recommended for navigating Malta efficiently.
3. Food and Dining Costs
When considering the cost of living in Malta, food expenses are another important consideration. For groceries, prices in Malta are fairly similar to other European countries. A typical weekly grocery bill for one person might cost around €40-€60 ($43-$65), depending on your shopping habits. Common items such as bread, milk, eggs, and vegetables are reasonably priced, but imported products can be more expensive.
Dining out is also quite affordable, with a meal at a casual restaurant costing between €15-€25 ($16-$27) per person. However, if you prefer dining at higher-end establishments, prices can climb quickly, with a three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant costing about €40-€60 ($43-$65).
| Item | Price (EUR) | Price (USD) |
| Monthly groceries | €250–€300 | ~$270–$325 |
| Meal at a restaurant | €20–€30 | ~$22–$33 |
| Cappuccino | €2–€2.50 | ~$2.15–$2.70 |
| Local beer | €2.50–€3.50 | ~$2.70–$3.80 |
4. Healthcare and Insurance Costs
Malta’s healthcare system is of high quality and relatively affordable. For EU nationals, healthcare is often free or highly subsidized through the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). However, for non-EU nationals, private health insurance is generally required, and prices can vary based on the coverage and provider.
On average, private health insurance in Malta can cost anywhere from €40-€150 ($43-$160) per month, depending on the level of coverage. For out-of-pocket expenses, a visit to a general practitioner may cost about €40-€60 ($43-$65), while specialists charge higher fees.
Malta also has excellent hospitals and healthcare facilities, which is why many expats are willing to invest in private insurance to ensure quick access to medical care.
5. Education Costs
For families considering relocating to Malta, education costs are another important factor when calculating the cost of living in Malta. Malta offers both public and private education options. Public education is free for residents, but many expats prefer private international schools that offer curricula in English or other languages.
- Cost of private education: From €5,000-€15,000 ($5,400-$16,000) per year, depending on the school and the child’s grade level. International schools are generally on the higher end of the spectrum. Additional costs like uniforms, books, and extracurricular activities can also add to the overall price.
6. Internet and Telecom Costs in Malta
Malta has reliable and fast internet, and telecommunications services are relatively affordable. The average monthly cost for a basic internet connection is around €25-€35 ($27-$38), with higher-speed options costing slightly more.
For mobile phone services, a typical mobile plan costs about €10-€25 ($11-$27) per month, depending on the data, minutes, and messaging options. Many expats opt for pay-as-you-go plans or SIM cards to save on monthly expenses.
For more details on choosing the best internet providers and SIM card options in Malta, check out this comprehensive guide on internet and telecom services in Malta.
7. Summary Table – Cost of Living in Malta
| Category | Single Person (€/month) | Family of 4 (€/month) |
| Housing (Rent) | €800 – €1,100 | €1,400 – €1,800 |
| Food & Groceries | €250 – €300 | €700 – €900 |
| Transport (Public & occasional taxis) | €30 – €60 | €80 – €120 |
| Utilities (Electricity, water, gas) | €60 – €100 | €120 – €180 |
| Internet & Mobile | €35 – €50 | €60 – €70 |
| Health Insurance | €40 – €70 | €100 – €200 |
| Education (if applicable) | — | €0 (public) / €250–€600 (private) |
| Leisure & Extras | €150 – €250 | €300 – €500 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | €1,400 – €1,850 | €2,800 – €4,300 |
It is important to know that as of 2025, the minimum wage in Malta is €961/month (around $1,036). This wage is typically sufficient for covering basic living expenses, particularly in less expensive areas. However, for a more comfortable lifestyle, especially in popular expat areas like Valletta or Sliema, many people find they need to earn more.
To Finish
In conclusion, the cost of living in Malta can be considered affordable, especially when compared to other major European destinations. While housing costs have risen in recent years, Malta still offers a more budget-friendly option for those looking to live in a beautiful Mediterranean destination. Whether you’re an expat, retiree, or digital nomad, Malta’s blend of affordability and high quality of life makes it a fantastic place to call home.
For expatriates planning a move, one of the first steps is to open a Maltese visa. Find out how to obtain a visa for Malta here.
FAQs
2. What are the best areas to live in Malta for expatriates?
The most popular areas for expats are Sliema, St. Julian’s, and Valletta for their central location and lifestyle, though they are more expensive. For better value, areas like Gżira, Mosta, Naxxar, and Marsaskala offer lower rent, good amenities, and a local vibe.
3. Is it possible to live in Malta on a lower budget?
Yes, it’s absolutely possible to live on a tighter budget of around €1,000–€1,200/month by renting a room in shared housing, cooking at home, and relying on public transport. By avoiding tourist hotspots and instead choosing to live like a local, you can significantly reduce the overall cost of living in Malta.
3. Are utility bills high in Malta?
Utility bills are moderate. For a small apartment, expect to pay around €60–€100/month ($65–$110) for electricity, water, and gas, depending on the season (summer bills tend to be higher due to AC use). Internet typically costs €30–€45/month, which is in line with most EU countries.
