As Malta continues to attract residents from around the world, it’s important to understand the cost of living on the island. While Malta may not be the cheapest destination in Europe, it is still around 18% cheaper than many other European countries. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the main expenses you might encounter when living in Malta.
Housing Costs
Housing prices in Malta vary depending on the location, amenities, and the type of property. Here are some typical rental costs:
- A furnished two-bedroom apartment in areas like Mellieħa (a northern beach town) can cost around €800–€900 per month.
- For more upscale properties with sea views in areas like Sliema, rent can exceed €2,000.
- Standard rental apartments usually range between €1,000 to €1,500 per month.
For those looking to buy, brand-new apartments or condos start at approximately €190,000. However, it’s important to note that many new builds come partially finished, so additional costs for kitchen installation, appliances, and other fittings may arise.
Food Costs
Food prices in Malta, especially for locally produced EU products, are fairly comparable to other Mediterranean countries. Some typical food costs include:
- A dozen eggs: €3.30
- A litre of milk: €1.10
- White bread: €1.19
- Freshly baked baguette: €0.50
- Rice: €3.07
Dining out can also be affordable, especially outside of tourist areas. A hearty Maltese lunch with a local Cisk beer typically costs around €10 to €12.
Transportation
The current public transportation in Malta has shifted significantly with the introduction of free transport for all residents, including seniors.
- Non-Residents and Tourist Bus Fares: Non residents and tourists pay for bus fares:€2 or €2.50 during summer season. 7-day Explore Card is €25 for adults and €7 for children.
- Tallinja Card Fees: While transport is free, the Talinja Card is required to access these services. Normally, the registration costs are €25 for adults and €5 for children and seniors.
- Standard Ferry Fares: Adults pay €4.65 for a single way ticket between Malta-Gozo while Gozo residents enjoy a discounted rate of €1.15 per journey.
- Fast Ferry Services: Adults pay €7.50, while Gozo residents enjoy a discounted rate of €2.25 per journey.
- Renting a car, scooter, or motorcycle is common, with daily rental prices starting from €15. Ride-sharing apps like Bolt and eCabs, along with Uber, provide affordable options for local trips, with average costs around €5–€7 for short rides and €25–€35 for island-wide travel.
Utilities
Utility costs in Malta are relatively low compared to many EU countries:
- Electricity: Around €0.14 per kWh.
- Mobile phone plans: Prices start at €10–€20 per month for basic packages including talk, text, and data.
- Monthly utility bills (electricity, water, and communication services) for a standard household usually range from €80 to €150.
Healthcare Costs
Healthcare in Malta is accessible for EU nationals with an European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). However, third-country nationals must obtain private health insurance as part of their residency requirements. Here are some typical costs for private medical services:
- Physician visit: €25
- House call: €40–€50
- Ultrasound: €180–€200
- MRI scan: Starting from €240–€250
- Dental check-up/scaling: €45–€50
- Standard filling: €55–€60
- Root canal treatment: €280–€350
Health insurance for a couple in their 60s typically costs around €2,200–€2,500 annually.
Outdoor Activities
Malta’s Mediterranean climate makes it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of options to enjoy nature and stay active throughout the year. Whether you enjoy hiking, swimming, or exploring historical sites, there’s something for everyone. Here are some popular outdoor activities and their associated costs:
- Hiking and Nature Walks: Malta offers numerous scenic trails, especially around the coastline and countryside. Popular spots include the Wied il-Għajn valley and the Għar Lapsi cliffs. These activities are free and provide stunning views of the island’s landscapes.
- Water Sports: Given Malta’s beautiful coast, water activities are very popular. You can enjoy swimming, kayaking, and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. For those seeking more adrenaline-pumping experiences, scuba diving is a major attraction, with many schools offering beginner to advanced courses. Rental for snorkeling or kayaking gear typically costs €10–€20 per day, while diving courses start at €200 for basic certification.
- Cycling: Cycling is a popular activity, especially in less urban areas of the island. The Gozo and Comino islands offer cycling routes through peaceful, picturesque landscapes. Bicycle rentals are available starting at €15–€20 per day.
- Rock Climbing: Malta is known for its limestone cliffs, making it a great spot for rock climbing. There are both beginner and advanced routes available. A half-day guided rock climbing experience costs around €60–€80.
- Tennis: For tennis lovers, there are several courts available for hire throughout the island. Membership at clubs like the Mellieħa Tennis Club or Marsa Sports Club typically costs around €15–€20 per session, with discounts available for members.
- Fishing: Malta offers great opportunities for both recreational and sport fishing. While fishing from the shore is free, you can also join guided boat trips for deep-sea fishing, which typically cost around €40–€70 for a half-day excursion.
- Horseback Riding: The island’s rural areas offer horseback riding experiences, allowing you to explore the countryside in a unique way. A guided horse ride through the countryside costs around €30–€50 per hour.
Conclusion
Malta offers a reasonable cost of living compared to many other European countries, making it an attractive destination for expatriates. However, the affordability depends on your personal lifestyle and location preferences. While rent, utilities, and food costs are generally manageable, more expensive areas like Sliema and St. Julian’s will come with higher living expenses.
It’s important to stay updated on the latest costs, as currency fluctuations can affect the overall cost of living. With careful planning, you can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle in Malta without breaking the bank.
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