Thinking about relocating and curious about the cost of living in Malta? You’re not alone. Many expats are attracted to this Mediterranean island for its climate, culture, and reasonable living expenses. But what is the cost of living in Malta? In this article, we’ll examine the various expenses you’ll encounter, helping you make informed decisions and plan your budget for a successful relocation. We’ll explore the main aspects of a monthly budget in Malta such as rent, groceries, utilities, transport, entertainment and healthcare. We’ll also provide tips on making your money go further with smart choices in food and housing. To give you a comprehensive view of the cost of living in Malta, we’ll compare expenses in the capital city, Valletta, with those in the smaller city, Sliema. By looking at all aspects of life and living costs in Malta, you’ll better understand the financial resources needed for a smooth move. Now let’s dive into how much you will need to spend if you make the move to Malta!
Investigating the Cost of Living in Malta
When you’re considering moving to Malta, it’s essential to get a grasp on the cost of living in order to create a realistic budget. You’ll need to be aware of the monthly expenses you’re likely to face, such as rent, groceries, utilities, transport, entertainment and healthcare plans. Let’s delve deeper into each of these categories.
Uncover the Basics of a Monthly Budget
Rent
The cost of renting an apartment or house in Malta can vary significantly based on location and size. Most people relocating tend to choose one-bedroom apartments, as they’re usually more affordable than larger homes. According to the updated Numbeo’s cost of living statistics from March 2023, the average rent for an unfurnished one-bedroom apartment outside city centres ranges from €515 (US$620) to €745 (US$897). Rentals within city centres can be considerably more expensive, with prices starting at around €660 (US$795).
| Apartment Type | Average Cost Outside City Centre | Average Cost Inside City Centre |
|---|---|---|
| 1-Bedroom Apartment | €515 – €745 | €660 – €975 |
| 2-Bedroom Apartment | €775 – €1,100 | €900 – €1,550 |
| 3-Bedroom Apartment | €1,000 – €1,550 | €1,300 – €2,200 |
Information Sourced: Numbeo
Groceries
The cost of grocery shopping in Malta can vary depending on where you shop and what you buy. Generally, prices are quite consistent across different supermarkets. According to Expatistan’s 2023 Maltese price index, basic grocery items such as eggs and milk may cost between €1-4.50 (US$1.10-$5.44). These products don’t usually involve much negotiation, making them a reliable basis for estimating monthly food expenses.
| Food Item | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| 1 litre (1 qt.) of whole fat milk | €0.91 |
| 12 eggs, large | €3.09 |
| 1 kg (2 lb.) of tomatoes | €1.73 |
| 500 g (16 oz.) of local cheese | €6.00 |
| 1 kg (2 lb.) of apples | €2.02 |
| 1 kg (2 lb.) of potatoes | €1.32 |
| 0.5 l (16 oz) domestic beer in the supermarket | €1.23 |
| 1 bottle of red table wine, good quality | €7.00 |
| 2 litres of Coca-Cola | €1.76 |
| Bread for 2 people for 1 day | €0.86 |
Information Sourced: Expatistan
Utilities
When it comes to utility bills in Malta (which include electricity, heating and water), they can vary greatly depending on how much you use. On average, you might expect to spend around €70-170 (US$85-$206) per month. Here’s a tip: monitor your usage over time. This way, you can gauge where you might be able to economise and adjust your budget in line with your actual consumption. Not only will this help you save money, but it’s also a great way to lead a more eco-friendly lifestyle.
Transportation Costs
Your transportation costs in Malta will primarily depend on whether you own or rent a car, or if you opt for public transport such as buses. Public transport in Malta is quite user-friendly and affordable, with single tickets costing around €2 (US$2.41). If you’re looking for a long-term solution, monthly passes might be the way to go, as they offer discounted fares. These passes typically start at around €26 (US$31) for adults and €21 (US$25) for students, making them a cost-effective choice for regular commuters.
| Transportation Item | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| One-way Ticket (Local Transport) | €2.00 |
| Monthly Pass (Regular Price) | €26.00 |
| Monthly Pass (Student Price) | €21.00 |
| Taxi Start (Normal Tariff) | €4.00 |
| Taxi 1 km (Normal Tariff) | €1.50 |
| Taxi 1 hour Waiting (Normal Tariff) | €20.00 |
| Gasoline (1 litre / 0.26 gallon) | €1.34 |
| Volkswagen Golf 1.4 90 KW Trendline (Or Equivalent New Car) | €20,000.00 |
| Toyota Corolla Sedan 1.6l 97kW Comfort (Or Equivalent New Car) | €21,000.00 |
Information Sourced: Numbeo
Entertainment Expenses
Entertainment expenses in Malta can significantly differ depending on individual tastes and preferences. However, it is possible to get a rough idea of the costs involved for popular activities such as dining out or enjoying a few drinks. According to Numbeo, the average cost for a meal at a mid-range restaurant in Malta for two people is approximately €69 (US$75), while a meal at an inexpensive restaurant may cost around €15 (US$16) per person. If you plan to indulge in a couple of drinks, be prepared to spend around €3-5 (US$3.50-$6) for a domestic beer and €4-6 (US$4.75-$7) for an imported beer or a cocktail. Factoring in these expenses, a typical night out in Malta could cost you anywhere between €30-50 (US$37-$60) per person, not including any potential discounts or special promotions. Keep in mind that these prices may vary depending on the specific location, the time of year, and the type of establishment.
| Item | Average Price |
|---|---|
| Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant | €15.00 |
| Meal for 2 People, Mid-range Restaurant, Three-course | €69.00 |
| McMeal at McDonalds (or Equivalent Combo Meal) | €9.00 |
| Domestic Beer (0.5 litre draught) | €3.00 |
| Imported Beer (0.33 litre bottle) | €3.50 |
| Cappuccino (regular) | €2.35 |
| Coke/Pepsi (0.33 litre bottle) | €1.91 |
| Water (0.33 litre bottle) | €1.33 |
Information Sourced: Numbeo
Healthcare
When it comes to healthcare, Malta offers a range of options, including private insurance policies covering hospitalisation fees and national health services provided by hospitals at no cost. Whether you opt for private or public healthcare, it is essential to factor in healthcare costs in your budget, particularly if you plan on residing in Malta long-term. International residents can benefit from the country’s healthcare services, which are generally less expensive than those in other European countries. Malta has a well-established healthcare system with modern facilities and qualified medical professionals, making it an ideal destination for those seeking quality healthcare services at an affordable cost.
Compare the Cost of Living in Malta’s Larger Cities
When assessing the cost of living in Malta, it is important to compare prices across its larger cities. As with any other country, there can be significant variations in prices between areas; for example, Valletta may have higher rents than Sliema or Gzira. Let us take a look at some of Malta’s larger cities and their respective costs of living.
Get to Know Malta’s Larger Cities
Malta is made up of several distinct urban centres such as Valletta (the capital city), Sliema (the second-largest city), and Gzira (an affluent residential area). Valletta is renowned for its historical attractions, traditional streetscapes, vibrant culture and nightlife, whereas Sliema offers family-friendly beaches and plenty of shopping opportunities at The Point Shopping Mall. Finally, Gzira boasts a waterfront promenade lined with cafés and restaurants that attract locals looking for an evening out on the town.
Understand the Cost of Living in Malta’s Capital Valletta
Valletta stands out as one of Europe’s smallest but most densely populated capitals, making rental properties expensive compared to other parts of the island nation. According to updated data, rents in Valletta for a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre start at around €800 (US$965) per month, reaching up to €1,200 (US$1,447), while outside these city centres, they range from €650 – €1,100 (US$784 – $1,327). For a larger three-bedroom apartment, city centre prices begin at €1,500 (US$1,808) and can go up to €3,000 (US$3,616). Outside the city centre, prices range from €1,100 – 2,500 (US$1,327 – $3,013). Grocery shopping in Valletta can also be slightly pricier due to higher demand. For example, a litre of milk may cost between €0.90 – €1.00, a loaf of fresh white bread (500g) can range from €1.00 – €3.00, and a dozen eggs might be priced between €1.00 – €3.60. Chicken fillets (1kg) can vary between €3.00 – €12.00, while a mid-range bottle of wine may be priced from €5.00 – €8.00. Additionally, utility bills tend to be high too; expect monthly expenses ranging from €75 – €175 (US$90 – $211). 
Understand the Cost of Living in Malta’s Second City Sliema
Sliema offers a more budget-friendly option for those looking to relocate within Malta, primarily due to its lower housing expenses compared to Valletta or Gzira. Rent for an unfurnished one-bedroom apartment outside city centres starts at approximately €480 (US$582) per month, although properties closer to the city centre may begin at €550 (US$670) per month. Furthermore, grocery costs in Sliema tend to be more affordable than in other areas of this small island nation, with prices starting at around €3 (US$3.58) and varying depending on the items purchased. While utility bills in Sliema remain comparable to those in other Maltese towns, significant savings in this area should not be expected. 
| Category | Indices Difference (%) | Info |
|---|---|---|
| Consumer Prices | -8.9 | Sliema is lower than Valletta |
| Consumer Prices Including Rent | -11.0 | Sliema is lower than Valletta |
| Rent Prices | -15.8 | Sliema is lower than Valletta |
| Restaurant Prices | -9.1 | Sliema is lower than Valletta |
| Groceries Prices | -2.8 | Sliema is lower than Valletta |
| Local Purchasing Power | 27.4 | Sliema is higher than Valletta |
Understanding the Average Salary in Malta
In 2023, Malta saw a notable rise in its average monthly salary, reflecting the country’s economic growth and stability in recent years. Data collected by the National Statistics Office showed that the average wage had climbed to €2,042 per month, which is an impressive increase compared to the preceding years. This can be attributed to the government’s proactive approach in creating a favourable business environment, encouraging foreign investments and supporting the Maltese workforce. The hard work and dedication of both local and expatriate employees has been a major factor in the country’s economic success. In response, the government has implemented several policies and initiatives to ensure fair wages for the workforce and to foster skills development. All of these measures have helped in maintaining a competitive edge, resulting in a steady rise in the average monthly salary and improved quality of life for the residents of Malta. It is important to keep in mind that the average salary figures include a variety of professions and industries, and there are discrepancies between the salaries of different sectors. For example, employees in the IT and finance sectors generally earn higher wages compared to those in the retail or hospitality industries. Nevertheless, Malta is dedicated to creating a balanced and thriving economy that offers fair remuneration for its workforce.
Estimating Your Monthly Budget in Malta
With the information provided above, it is now possible to estimate a monthly budget for living in Malta. Bear in mind that these figures are merely a guideline and can vary depending on your lifestyle, location and preferences. For a single person, a typical estimated monthly budget may include:
| Expense Category | Estimated Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Rent (one-bedroom apartment outside the city centre) | €515 – €745 |
| Groceries | €150 – €250 |
| Utilities | €70 – €170 |
| Transportation (public transport monthly pass) | €26 |
| Entertainment (dining out, drinks, and leisure activities) | €100 – €300 |
| Healthcare (insurance or out-of-pocket expenses) | €50 – €100 |
Based on these estimates, a single person can expect to spend around €911 to €1,591 per month on living expenses in Malta. Keep in mind that these costs can vary depending on individual choices, such as opting for a more expensive apartment or indulging in more entertainment activities. The key is to find the right balance between one’s needs and budget while enjoying the unique experiences that Malta has to offer. For families or couples, the estimated monthly budget may increase, as larger accommodations and additional expenses such as childcare or school fees might be necessary. However, it is essential to bear in mind that many families living in Malta benefit from sharing costs and saving on expenses, such as groceries and utilities.
Our Final Thoughts On The Cost Of Living In Malta
After reviewing the different components of the cost of living in Malta, it’s clear that this Mediterranean gem offers expats a favourable lifestyle at an affordable price. From cities such as Valletta and Sliema to charming villages all over the island, there is something for everyone – regardless of their budget. Whilst prices can differ drastically depending on location, preferences, and lifestyle choices, understanding each expense involved will help make sure that your relocation is successful and stress-free. With its sunny skies and vibrant culture, Malta may just be your ideal destination!
