Living in Malta in 2025 - The Real Monthly Costs
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Living in Malta
Cost of Living in Malta
Monthly budget breakdown for a third-country national worker
Practical guidance
Processes, costs, and providers may change. This page reflects conditions in early 2026 — always confirm details with the relevant authority or provider.
Malta's cost of living has risen significantly since 2022, primarily driven by rent increases. While cheaper than London or Dublin, Malta is no longer a budget destination. Here's a realistic breakdown.
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Why rents are so expensive in Malta?
Alex in Malta · EN
Monthly Budget (Single Person, Central Area)
Rent (1-bed, shared area): €700–€1,200. Groceries: €200–€350. Transport (Tallinja card + occasional Bolt): €40–€80. Utilities (electricity, water, internet): €80–€120. Eating out & social: €100–€200. Phone/SIM: €10–€20. Total: roughly €1,100–€2,000/month depending on lifestyle and area.
Rent Is the Biggest Cost
Rent accounts for 40–60% of most workers' budgets. Cheaper options exist in inland towns (Ħamrun, Birkirkara, Msida) versus coastal areas (Sliema, St Julian's). Sharing reduces costs significantly — expect €300–€500 for a room in a shared flat.
Groceries
Lidl, Pavi, and Valyou are the budget-friendly supermarkets. Fresh produce at open markets (like the Marsaxlokk Sunday market) can be cheaper. Ethnic grocery shops in Ħamrun, Gżira, and Msida offer products from South Asia, Africa, and the Philippines at competitive prices.
Utilities
Electricity in Malta is provided by Enemalta and is subsidised for primary residences. Water is provided by the Water Services Corporation. Internet (GO, Melita, Epic) costs €20–€40/month for home broadband. Electricity costs spike in summer due to air conditioning.
Sending Money Home
Many TCN workers send remittances home regularly. Options include Wise (TransferWise), Remitly, Western Union, and local services in Ħamrun and Gżira. Compare exchange rates and fees — bank transfers are often the most expensive option.
Practical Tips
✓Budget at least €1,200/month for a basic but comfortable life in a central area
✓Share a flat in your first months to reduce costs
✓Use Lidl and open markets for cheaper groceries
✓Compare remittance providers — Wise is usually cheapest for bank-to-bank transfers
✓Track your spending in the first month to build a realistic budget
Managing money across currencies before your bank account opens?
Tip
SponsoredMaltese bank accounts take 2–4 weeks due to KYC checks. Open a Revolut account before you land — it takes 10 minutes and works for salary payments.
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