Cost of Living
Cost of Living in Malta for a Family of 4: 2026 Budget
A realistic monthly budget for a couple with two children in Malta. Includes rent, schooling, childcare, healthcare, groceries, transport, and activities.
Full family budget (couple + 2 children, mid-range area)
This budget assumes a two-bedroom apartment in Msida or Birkirkara (mid-range area), two children in state schooling, one car, and moderate lifestyle. It does not include savings, loan repayments, or private school fees.
| Category | Low estimate | Mid estimate |
|---|---|---|
| 2-bed apartment (Msida / Birkirkara) | €950 | €1,300 |
| Groceries (family of 4) | €400 | €550 |
| Car (insurance, fuel, licence, maintenance) | €250 | €400 |
| Bus cards (2 adults) | €52 | €52 |
| Utilities (electricity, water, internet) | €100 | €200 |
| State school (books, uniforms, trips) | €50 | €150 |
| Childcare (if under school age, part-time) | €400 | €700 |
| Healthcare (public + occasional private GP) | €50 | €150 |
| Mobile phones (2 adults) | €25 | €50 |
| Eating out (family) | €150 | €280 |
| Activities (sports, cinema, beach) | €80 | €180 |
| Personal care, clothing, sundries | €150 | €250 |
| Total (approx.) | €2,657 | €4,262 |
Numbeo / local estimatesEstimates for planning. Childcare included only if children are pre-school age. International school fees are excluded — see note below. Last verified: 2026-06-09.
International school fees add significantly
Rent options for families
A family of 4 typically needs at least a two-bedroom apartment. Three- bedroom properties are available but significantly more expensive.
| Area | 2-bed rent | 3-bed rent |
|---|---|---|
| Sliema / St Julians | €1,500–€2,200 | €2,000–€3,000+ |
| Msida / Gzira | €1,100–€1,500 | €1,500–€2,000 |
| Birkirkara / Mosta | €950–€1,300 | €1,300–€1,800 |
| North Malta (Mellieħa, St Paul's Bay) | €900–€1,300 | €1,200–€1,700 |
| Gozo | €850–€1,200 | €1,100–€1,600 |
Family healthcare in Malta
Malta’s public health centres (primary care) are free for legal residents. Mater Dei Hospital is the main public hospital. EU citizens with EHIC and non-EU permit holders can access public healthcare.
Private healthcare is available and shorter waiting times make it popular for routine appointments. Private GP visits cost €30–€60. Paediatric consultations privately run €50–€100. Many families take out private health insurance — family plans start at around €150–€300/month depending on coverage level and provider.
Two incomes vs one
A family living on one income in Malta will feel financial pressure unless the earner is in a senior or professional role. Two working adults change the math significantly. Malta’s labour market actively hires in iGaming, hospitality, finance, and IT — sectors where two-income professional families are common.
If one parent is staying home or working part-time, focus the housing budget on mid-range areas (Birkirkara, Mosta, north Malta) rather than the expensive tourist belt.
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