Dreaming of a Mediterranean lifestyle without breaking the bank? A new report from InternationalLiving.com reveals the best places to live in Malta for under $36,000 a year.
With its stunning coastline, mild climate, and affordable cost of living, English-speaking Malta offers expats and retirees a high-quality yet budget-friendly lifestyle.
Source: InternationalLiving.com
With its stunning coastline, mild winters, and rich history, English-speaking Malta is one of the European Union’s most overlooked retirement destinations. Nestled between Sicily and North Africa, this sun-drenched archipelago offers a high quality of life at a lower cost than much of Northern Europe.
“Malta offers the best of Mediterranean living—history, safety, and affordability,” says Kathleen Evans, a longtime contributor to International Living. “It’s an incredibly safe place where living on $3,000 a month, or even less, is still a reality.”
“By living outside the Inner Harbour, expats can stretch their budget further—leaving more room for travel, dining, and leisure.”
For those seeking a Mediterranean lifestyle on a budget, International Living’s latest report highlights three of Malta’s most affordable locations.
1. Best Places to Live in Malta – Mellieħa
Located in the far north of Malta, Mellieħa is known for its quieter atmosphere, stunning sandy beaches, and breathtaking sea views. With a population of just 6,000 residents, this charming town is especially peaceful in the winter months, when tourists and part-time residents clear out.
Mellieħa is built into hills that overlook the Mediterranean, crowned by a towering limestone church that offers spectacular panoramic views. Winding roads lead down to a 2-kilometer golden sand beach, where calm, shallow waters make it a top spot for swimming and family outings. Along the coastline, expats will find seaside restaurants and cafés, offering a relaxed, scenic dining experience.
For those looking to rent, furnished two-bedroom, two-bath apartments can be found for $950–$1,000 per month, though sea-view properties come at a premium. Those interested in purchasing real estate to qualify for Malta’s permanent residency program will find apartments available in the $250,000–$300,000 range, just shy of the €300,000 ($309,000) minimum purchase requirement.
Daily expenses remain reasonable, with inexpensive restaurant meals averaging $20 and local beers costing just $3. Utilities are fairly standard across the island, typically falling between $150–$200 per month. Transportation is also affordable, with bus fares costing just €2.50 (€3 at night) to get anywhere on the island.
With its beachside charm, affordability, and easy access to the rest of Malta, Mellieħa is an excellent option for expats looking for a slower pace of life in a scenic Mediterranean setting.
2. Best Places to Live in Malta – Marsaxlokk
Located in the far south of Malta, Marsaxlokk is one of the island’s last authentic fishing villages, offering a picturesque and traditional Mediterranean lifestyle. With a population of just 4,000, this colorful seaside town is famous for its historic fishing boats (luzzus), vibrant waterfront, and fresh seafood markets.
Throughout the week, Marsaxlokk is a peaceful retreat, but on Sundays, it transforms into a bustling hub, thanks to its renowned seafood market, where locals and visitors stock up on freshly caught fish at prices nearly half of those in major grocery stores. For example, lampuki (dorado) can be found for just €5 per kilo ($2.27 per pound).
As more expats discover Marsaxlokk’s laid-back charm and affordability, the town is experiencing a surge in new apartment developments. Fully furnished two-bedroom, two-bath rental apartments range from $900–$1,000 per month, while brand-new apartments for sale can be found for under €300,000 ($309,000)—making this a smart location for those considering real estate investment or permanent residency.
Dining in Marsaxlokk is both affordable and delicious, with inexpensive restaurants averaging $20 per meal and mid-range dining at around $35. The town’s open-air market also helps keep grocery costs low, with a weekly budget of $125 per couple being more than sufficient.
With its traditional charm, fresh seafood, and affordability, Marsaxlokk is a hidden gem for expats seeking an authentic, small-town Maltese lifestyle.
3. Best Places to Live in Malta – Gozo
For those looking to truly slow down, the island of Gozo—Malta’s northernmost island—offers a more traditional, countryside lifestyle. With a population of just 41,000, Gozo is less developed than Malta’s main island, featuring rugged coastlines, crystal-clear waters, and vast open spaces.
Often described as “stepping back in time,” Gozo is known for its untouched hiking trails, traditional farmhouses, and Baroque-style churches. The island’s coastline is a diver’s paradise, with azure waters so vivid they appear photoshopped.
In terms of affordability, Gozo is one of the best-value destinations in Malta. Expats looking to rent can find two-bedroom, two-bath apartments for $900 per month in the capital of Victoria, while those preferring a more secluded coastal setting can find apartments in Xlendi for as little as $450 per month.
For those considering real estate purchases, Gozo has an abundance of properties priced under €300,000 ($309,000). However, it’s important to note that non-EU citizens seeking permanent residency must purchase a property worth at least €300,000 to qualify for the scheme.
While staples like groceries may be slightly more expensive due to additional shipping logistics, Gozo still remains highly affordable overall. The island has only one public hospital, so those requiring major medical procedures may need to travel to Malta’s main island, where private medical centers offer expanded healthcare options.
Transportation between Gozo and Malta is convenient, with a standard ferry round-trip fare of €15.70 for a driver and car, though Gozo residents pay a reduced rate of €8.15.
For expats looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, Gozo provides tranquility, affordability, and an unbeatable connection to nature—all while remaining just a short ferry ride from Malta’s main island.
Read the full report here: Best Places to Live in Malta on Less Than $3,000 a Month
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About International Living
Since 1979, InternationalLiving.com has been the leading authority for anyone looking for global retirement or relocation opportunities. Through its monthly magazine and related e-letters, extensive website, podcasts, online bookstore, and events held around the world, InternationalLiving.com provides information and services to help its readers live better, travel farther, have more fun, save more money, and find better business opportunities when they expand their world beyond their own shores. InternationalLiving.com has more than 200 contributors traveling the globe, investigating the best opportunities for travel, retirement, real estate, and investment.
