Malta Cost of Living vs. the US in 2026

Sunny weather, walkable cities, English widely spoken, and all of Europe a short flight away — Malta checks a lot of boxes for Americans considering a move abroad.

The cost of living in Malta is lower than in the United States overall, though your expenses can vary depending on where you settle and the lifestyle you want. Below, we compare Malta and the US across housing, food, transportation, utilities, and income.

If you regularly support friends or family overseas, explore ways to send money to Malta.

Average cost of living in Malta vs. the US

According to Numbeo, the estimated monthly costs for a family of four in Malta are $3,299.20 (2,839.30 euros), excluding rent. A single person spends an estimated $890.40 (€766.30) per month, excluding rent.

Overall, the cost of living in Malta vs. the USA is 17.7% lower. Rent is also lower, averaging 26.9% below US prices.

If you’re planning your budget in dollars, check the latest USD to EUR exchange rate so you know how far your money will go.

How the cost of living varies throughout Malta

Where you live in Malta can have a big impact on your monthly expenses.

The cost of living in Sliema is among the highest in the country. Its waterfront location, restaurants, shopping, and large expat community drive up housing costs. The cost of living in Valletta also tends to be higher due to limited housing inventory and strong demand in the capital’s historic center.

For a lower-cost option, many residents look beyond the main urban areas. The cost of living in Gozo, Malta, is often lower than in Sliema or Valletta, with more affordable housing and a slower pace of life.

For comparison, Sliema and Valletta can feel similar to living in popular neighborhoods near downtown Miami or San Diego, while Gozo offers something closer to a quieter beach town on the Gulf Coast.

Source: Numbeo

 

Cost of housing in Malta vs. the US

When looking at the cost of living in Malta compared to US cities, many Americans find they can rent a centrally located apartment for less than they would pay in major metro areas like Boston, Seattle, or Los Angeles. On average, housing costs in Malta are cheaper than the US

Source: Numbeo

 

Cost of food in Malta vs. the US

Food costs in Malta depend on how often you cook at home and where you shop. Fresh produce, seafood, olive oil, bread, and local cheeses are staples of the Mediterranean diet and can be reasonably priced when purchased at neighborhood markets. Imported products and familiar American brands often cost more.

Source: Numbeo

 

Dining out is a big part of life in Malta, and there are options for nearly every budget. Waterfront restaurants and tourist-area spots tend to sit at the higher end, while neighborhood cafés and trattorias offer better value.

Source: Numbeo

 

Cost of transportation in Malta vs. the US

Getting around Malta is relatively simple thanks to the island’s compact size. Public buses connect most towns and cities, and a monthly transit pass costs about $35 compared to $65 in the US. Single fares and taxis are also slightly cheaper than in the US. Ride-hailing apps are widely available for shorter trips.

Owning a car is a different equation and could influence your cost of living in Malta. Import fees, parking limitations, and traffic congestion in busy areas can add up. Gasoline also runs higher compared to the US.

Source: Numbeo

 

Cost of key utilities in Malta vs. the US

Utilities are one of Malta’s strongest selling points compared to the US. Basic utilities average about $108 per month, which is roughly half the $214 US average.

Electricity bills can rise during summer months when cooling systems run more frequently, but even with seasonal swings, the savings are significant. Reliable internet across most of the island also makes Malta a popular landing spot for remote workers.

Source: Numbeo

 

Median annual income in Malta vs. the US

The average monthly net salary in Malta is about $1,840, which is less than half the $4,325 US average. While day-to-day expenses are lower, the income gap is worth factoring in if you plan to work locally.

Many expats bridge the difference by working remotely for overseas employers or earning income from international clients. Malta also has strong local job markets in tourism, technology, and financial services, which can offer more competitive wages than other sectors.

Looking at income alongside housing and everyday expenses gives you a more realistic picture of the cost of living in Malta compared to the US.

Source: Numbeo

 

Is moving to Malta worth it?

For many Americans, Malta offers a mix of lower living costs, Mediterranean weather, and easy access to Europe. The cost of living in Malta is generally lower than in the US, but your actual expenses will depend on where you live, your housing choices, and your lifestyle.

Before making a move, think about your income source, visa options, healthcare needs, and how you’ll manage money between countries. Take time to compare neighborhoods, estimate monthly expenses, and decide what matters most to you.

The more research you do upfront, the easier it becomes to determine if Malta is the right fit.