Living in Malta
Last updated on Mar 05, 2024
Summary: People describe life in Malta as sunny, relaxed, and friendly. Expats love the Mediterranean climate, the beautiful beaches, the vibrant nightlife, and the low cost of living. The average cost of living for an expat is around $1,500 per month, depending on lifestyle. Malta has a population of approximately 475,000 people, and the largest cities are Valletta, Birkirkara, and Qormi. The cons of living in Malta include the limited job opportunities, the lack of public transportation, and the high cost of housing. Additionally, the language barrier can be a challenge for some expats.
What do I need to know about living in Malta?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Malta, they said:
"Malta is a great destination for retirees looking for a sunny, Mediterranean lifestyle. Expats should research the cost of living in Malta, as it is higher than in many other countries. It is also important to consider the language barrier, as Maltese is the official language, although English is widely spoken. Expats should also be aware of the healthcare system in Malta, as it is a public system and may not meet the same standards as in other countries. Additionally, expats should research the tax system in Malta, as there are certain tax benefits for retirees. Finally, expats should consider the cultural differences between their home country and Malta, as this can affect their experience of living in the country," wrote a member in Malta.
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How do I meet people in Malta?
When we asked people living in Malta about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"Expats in Malta often join clubs and activities such as sailing, diving, and golfing. There are also many social clubs and meetups that expats can join to meet other people. Expats can also meet people by attending local events such as festivals, concerts, and art exhibitions. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups related to Malta, which can be a great way to connect with other expats and locals," said one expat who made the move to Malta.
What is life like in Malta?
When we asked people living in Malta what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Malta is a popular destination for expats and digital nomads due to its warm climate, low cost of living, and vibrant culture. Expats and digital nomads in Malta can enjoy a relaxed lifestyle, with plenty of opportunities to explore the island's stunning beaches, historical sites, and vibrant nightlife. The country also offers excellent healthcare and education systems, making it an ideal place to live and work. Expats and digital nomads in Malta can also benefit from the country's strong economy and business-friendly environment, making it an attractive destination for entrepreneurs and freelancers," said one expat in Malta.
Is there a lot of crime in Malta?
We asked people if there is a lot of crime. They answered:
"Malta generally has a low crime rate, with most crimes being non-violent. However, there has been an increase in certain types of crime, such as drug trafficking, cybercrime, and financial fraud. The Maltese government has taken steps to address these issues, such as increasing police presence and introducing new laws to combat cybercrime," commented one expat who made the move to Malta.
Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Malta accepting of differences?
"Malta is a small island nation with a population of around 500,000 people. The majority of the population is Maltese, with a small percentage of other ethnicities. There is a growing diversity in Malta, with a growing number of immigrants from other countries. People in Malta are generally accepting of differences and are welcoming to people from different backgrounds. Malta is a very tolerant and open society, and people of all backgrounds are respected and accepted," commented one expat who made the move to Malta.
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What are the schools in Malta like?
"The American International School of Malta (AISM) is one of the best international schools in Malta. It is a private, non-profit, co-educational day school offering an American-style education to students from Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 12. AISM is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools and the Malta Ministry of Education. The school offers a rigorous academic program, with a focus on the development of critical thinking skills, problem solving, and communication. The St. Edward's College is a bilingual school in Malta offering a British-style education to students from Kindergarten to Grade 13. The school is accredited by the Malta Ministry of Education and the Council of British International Schools. St. Edward's College offers a comprehensive curriculum, with a focus on the development of language, communication, and critical thinking skills. The Verdala International School is another excellent international school in Malta. It is a private, non-profit, co-educational day school offering an American-style education to students from Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 12. Verdala is accredited by the Malta Ministry of Education and the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools. The school offers a rigorous academic program, with a focus on the development of critical thinking skills, problem solving, and communication," remarked one expat living in with children attending .
Is the cost of living in Malta high?
We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Malta, they wrote:
"The cost of living in Malta is generally considered to be quite reasonable. Prices for basic necessities such as food, transportation, and housing are generally lower than in other European countries. However, the cost of living can vary depending on the area and lifestyle. For example, rent in the capital city of Valletta is typically more expensive than in other parts of the country. Additionally, the cost of entertainment and leisure activities can be quite high, especially in the more touristy areas," wrote one member in Malta.
"The cost of living in Malta is generally considered to be quite reasonable. The capital city of Valletta is the most expensive place to live in Malta, with prices for goods and services being higher than in other parts of the country. The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Malta is around $800 USD per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment is around $1,000 USD per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Malta will cost around $20 USD per person," commented one expat who moved to Malta.
What type of recreational facilities are in Malta?
When we asked people living in Malta about recreational activities, they mentioned:
"Malta offers a wide variety of recreational facilities for its residents to enjoy. Popular activities include swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving in the Mediterranean Sea, as well as exploring the many historical sites and monuments scattered throughout the island. There are also numerous beaches, parks, and nature reserves to explore, as well as a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and horseback riding. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, there are plenty of cafes, restaurants, and bars to enjoy. Additionally, Malta is home to a number of cultural events and festivals throughout the year, providing plenty of entertainment for residents," said an expat in Malta.
What is the weather like in Malta?
"The weather in Malta is typically warm and sunny, with temperatures ranging from mild to hot throughout the year. The summer months are usually the hottest, with temperatures reaching up to 30°C. The winter months are milder, with temperatures rarely dropping below 10°C. Rainfall is generally low, with most of the rain falling in the winter months," commented one expat living in Malta.
Are there good restaurants in Malta?
"One of Malta's most popular restaurants is The Harbour Club, located in the picturesque St. Julian's Bay. The Harbour Club offers a wide variety of Mediterranean and international dishes, as well as a selection of fine wines. The restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. Another popular restaurant in Malta is The Chophouse, located in Valletta. The Chophouse is renowned for its steak and seafood dishes, as well as its extensive wine list. The restaurant has a modern, yet cozy atmosphere and is a great place to enjoy a romantic dinner. The Olive Tree is a popular restaurant located in Sliema. The Olive Tree offers a variety of Mediterranean dishes, as well as a selection of international dishes. The restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere and is a great place to enjoy a meal with friends. Finally, The Saluting Battery is a popular restaurant located in Valletta. The Saluting Battery offers a variety of Mediterranean dishes, as well as a selection of international dishes. The restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere and is a great place to enjoy a meal with friends," remarked one expat in Malta.
Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Malta?
"People living in Malta typically buy groceries from supermarkets such as Lidl, Pama, and Park Towers. Other shopping can be done at the local markets, such as the Marsa Market, or at the many shopping malls located throughout the country, such as The Point Shopping Mall in Sliema or The Plaza Shopping Centre in St. Julian's," commented one expat living in Malta.
What are the visa & residency requirements in Malta?
"In order to visit Malta, foreign nationals must obtain a visa prior to their arrival. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting an application form, providing a valid passport, and providing proof of sufficient funds to cover the duration of the stay. In order to obtain residency in Malta, foreign nationals must submit an application to the Maltese Immigration Department. The application must include a valid passport, proof of sufficient funds to cover the duration of the stay, and a valid work permit if the applicant is seeking employment. Additionally, applicants must provide proof of health insurance and a criminal background check. Once the application is approved, the applicant will be issued a residence permit," mentioned one expat inMalta.
Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Malta?
"Healthcare and health insurance in Malta are generally considered to be quite affordable. The Maltese government provides free healthcare to all citizens and permanent residents, and private health insurance is also available for those who wish to purchase it. Private health insurance plans typically cover a wide range of services, including hospitalization, doctor visits, and prescription drugs. In addition, the cost of medical care in Malta is generally lower than in other European countries," said an expat in Malta.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- Malta Guide
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Malta
- Members Talk about Healthcare & Health Insurance in Malta
- Best Places to Live in Malta
- Guide to Real Estate in Malta
- Pros & Cons of Living in Malta
- Cost of Living in Malta
- Top Hospitals in Malta by Specialty
- Best Places to See While on a Look-See Trip to Malta (Plus, Itineraries)
- Moving with a Pet to Malta
- Mental Health Care in Malta
- Pros and Cons of Living in Malta 2024