Living Abroad

Embrace the World: Your Passport to Adventure and Growth!

Home » Living in Malta

Living in Malta

Malta is a small island nation located in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea. Despite its small size, Malta has so much to offer for those considering relocating or living abroad. In this article, we will explore some of the main reasons why people chose to live in Malta as well as detail some pros and cons, costs of living, quality of life factors, cultural aspects, and best places to call home on the islands.

Why Move to Malta?

There are several compelling reasons why people decide to move to and live in Malta. Here are some of the top factors:

  • Warm Climate and Scenery – Malta enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Average yearly temperatures stay pleasantly warm. The islands also boast breathtaking coastal scenery dotted with cliffs, beaches, and historic landmarks.
  • English is Widely Spoken – Unlike some other countries in Europe, English is an official language in Malta alongside Maltese. This makes relocating and integrating much easier for English speakers.
  • Low Cost of Living – While prices have increased in recent years, living costs in Malta remain lower than much of Western Europe. Housing, utilities, transportation and general expenses are affordable compared to other destinations.
  • EU Membership – As a member of the European Union, Maltese citizens enjoy freedom of movement within the bloc. This opens up borders for work, study and travel benefits.
  • Safe Country – Malta consistently ranks as one of the safest countries in the world with low crime rates. Personal security is a big draw for many potential residents.
  • Rich Culture and History – With 7,000 years of inhabitants, Malta boasts a plethora of cultural attractions, historic sites, museums, festivals and delicacies to discover.

Living in Malta : Pros and Cons

Of course, no place is perfect and living in Malta also has its disadvantages to be aware of. Here are some of the main pros and cons:

Pros:

  1. Warm all year weather
  2. EU membership perks
  3. Low cost of homes and utilities
  4. Safe, family-friendly environment
  5. Strong sense of community
  6. Central location for travel in Europe

Cons:

  1. Small, island nation with limited land space
  2. Over-tourism can be problematic at times
  3. Reliant on imports for many goods
  4. Public transportation is improving but not as robust as larger countries
  5. Limited space means higher prices in major cities
  6. Beach erosion from rising sea levels is a concern

On the whole, the pros tend to outweigh the cons for most residents and those considering a move. Quality of life is high for a relatively low cost of living.

The Cost of Living in Malta : A Comprehensive Guide

One of the biggest draws of living in Malta is the affordable cost of living compared to other popular expat destinations. Here is a more in-depth breakdown:

Housing:

  • Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in city centers averages €500-800 per month
  • Mortgage on a 3-bedroom house in suburbs around €1,000 per month
  • Vacation rentals for short term stays very affordable, from €30 per night

Utilities:

  • Electricity/water bills approx. €50-100 per month for standard home
  • Internet packages from €15-30 per month for fiber broadband
  • Cell phone plans €20-30 per month for 4G data

Groceries:

  • Basic grocery bill for family of 4 around €150 per week
  • Fresh produce, meat and seafood very affordable
  • No sales tax on most foods

Dining Out:

  • Coffee/light meals from €5-10 per person
  • Three-course dinner at casual restaurants €15-25 per person
  • Fine dining evening meals from €30-50+ per person

Transportation:

  • 1-month bus pass €15-30 depending on routes
  • Gas/petrol prices lower than much of Europe at €1.30-1.50 per liter
  • Taxi rides within cities around €10-15

Healthcare:

  • Public healthcare system for EU residents and citizens
  • Private health insurance from €50-150 per month depending on coverage

As you can see, expenses for housing, utilities and daily living can be significantly lower than comparable costs in cities like London, Paris or Rome. Of course, prices are rising in Malta too but overall it remains a budget-friendly European destination.

Quality of Life in Malta

In terms of quality of life factors, Malta consistently ranks highly among expat and international surveys. Here’s an overview:

  1. Public Services – The public healthcare and education systems are efficient and provide a quality standard of living. Infrastructure like roads and public transportation are modernizing.
  2. Low Crime – Personal safety is a top priority. Violent crime and property theft are rare. Walking alone day or night presents very little danger.
  3. Work-Life Balance – A 35-hour workweek is standard with generous vacation allotments. Family, community and faith are deeply valued social priorities over excessive work commitments.
  4. Leisure Activities – Outdoor retreats like hiking, boating, swimming await at every turn. Museums, performances, festivals and sporting events often reflect Malta’s layered history. Cuisine, wine and nightlife are vibrant social spheres too.
  5. Pace of Life – While valuing hard work, Maltese culture takes time to relax and enjoy meals with company. Few stresses compare to larger congested cities elsewhere.
  6. Natural Beauty – From inland valleys to limestone coasts and crystal seas, Mother Nature gifts daily inspiration and relaxation. Over 300 days of annual sunshine boost mental health.

Overall, quality of life scores similarly to developed Western European standard benchmarks. Affordability allows a higher quality standard for the lower costs.

A Beginner’s Guide to Malta Culture

Steeped in over 7 millennia of occupation, Maltese culture today beautifully blends Mediterranean and European influences with a unique identity. Here is an overview for newcomers:

  • Language – Maltese descendants from Arabic and Italian. English also official.
  • Religion – Over 90% Roman Catholic, strong devout presence in daily life.
  • Family Structures – Multigenerational families live together, support each other’s needs.
  • Cuisine – WholesomeMediterranean diet staples like rabbit stews, fresh seafood pastas.
  • Festas – Lively village celebrations honoring patron saints, fireworks, folk music.
  • Architecture – Baroque churches, outsized civic buildings from Order of St. John legacy.
  • National Dress – Traditional għonnella dresses, bajtar caps still worn for special occasions.
  • Sports – Soccer dominance, Emigrant communities energize Premiership fandom.
  • Nightlife – Pace picks up after dinner, cafes for lingering, beach parties in summer.
  • Arts – Rich fabric arts traditions, contemporary art scene thriving in Valletta.

With curiosity and respect, culture readily embraces newcomers celebrating diversity of customs. Integration comes naturally by participating alongside locals.

Best Places to Live in Malta

There are various towns and regions across Malta and sister island Gozo to consider living. Here are some of the topoptions:

  1. Sliema/St. Julian’s – Lively seaside towns near capital with shops, restaurants and nightlife; high rents.
  2. Valletta – Historic capital on a peninsula with distinctive charm; but limited property with higher costs.
  3. Birkirkara/Msida/Ta’ Xbiex – Central suburban areas with good transportation and amenities near city comforts.
  4. St. Paul’s Bay – North coast tourist resort undergoing development with warmer summer beaches.
  5. Mellieha/Ghadira – Quieter north coast towns still close to highways; rising popularity and property costs.
  6. Marsaxlokk – South coast colorful fishing village turned weekend destination; developing residential areas.
  7. Mosta – Inland historic town known for immense Rotunda church dome; reasonable housing within commute.
  8. Naxxar/San Gwann – Developed mid-island localities with excellent infrastructure and schools.
  9. Gozo Island – Slow pace of rural island living just 30 minutes from mainland; property much cheaper.

Those already familiar with an area or wishing proximity to work/schools should prioritize individual needs when selecting a new Maltese community to call home.

Emily Johnson

One thought on “Living in Malta

  1. I also thought your writing style was very approachable. While tackling a nuanced issue, you maintained a positive tone and didn’t come across as too academic or preachy. The visuals like photos and charts were a nice complement that reinforced certain points visually. Overall, the right balance of facts and stories helped readers understand this issue from many angles. It’s obvious you’re very knowledgeable about this subject and did a great job sharing that expertise. Thank you for the thought-provoking and well-crafted post!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *


The reCAPTCHA verification period has expired. Please reload the page.

Back to top