There are some variables that will influence your cost of living in Malta. Below, we go over these factors so you can get an idea of how much it will cost to experience studying and working in Malta.
Sliema and St. Julians are often the most sought-after areas by international students, not only because they offer very good connections to other parts of the island, but also because they are the two main commercial centers of the island, which means there is more job availability. The downside: these are the most expensive areas in Malta.
If you’re looking for a more affordable option, you could consider renting in the cities of Gzira, Msida, or Swieqi. These cities are very close to Sliema and St. Julians and offer cheaper rents. Additionally, they are quieter areas to live in Malta.
The type of accommodation you choose to live in Malta will significantly influence your monthly cost of living. The most affordable option is sharing a room with another student. After that, renting a room will be cheaper than living in a student residence, for example.
This is another factor that may affect your budget. The high season in Malta runs from May to September, and the low season is from October to April.
Considering that during the high season, accommodation prices and even English course prices tend to rise, the time of year when your stay in Malta will be cheaper is during the winter season.
Unless you are staying in a student residence or with a Maltese family that includes meals, cleaning, etc., it is important that your accommodation is close to some basic services because, in addition to making life easier, they will help you save money almost every day. These are services like supermarkets, public transportation, laundromats, or simply services you use frequently.
Malta is a country where you can study and work at the same time, and it also offers a good range of jobs for international students. So, if you come to do both, it will be easier for you to afford your life on the island. However, if you only come with the intention of studying, you will need to have a good cushion to afford and live the experience.
This is a more personal matter, and only you know what your lifestyle is best. If you like buying the best brands, if you go out partying every other day, or if you decide to use taxis as your regular mode of transportation, logically your cost of living in Malta will be much higher than if you are a “bit” more austere.
If your budget is tight, you can always share a room or apartment, use public transport, and take advantage of supermarket deals. What’s clear is that living in Malta for a while will be an unforgettable experience.
To give you a more precise idea of the budget you need to start the adventure in Malta, let’s see how much money you will need to get to Malta and cover your initial expenses.
To start, you need to consider that your initial investment will vary depending on where you are flying from, whether you need a visa, and the type of course you will be studying. Here is an approximate calculation:
There are some variables that will affect your salary in Malta, such as the job you will be doing, your level of experience, or the number of hours you work. But don’t worry, the unemployment rate in Malta is very low, around 4.5%, and most international students find work within an average of 2 to 3 weeks after they start job hunting.
In Malta, the minimum wage for full-time work is 785€ per month. However, companies usually pay a little more, with the average salary being about 21,000€ per year.
One of the most in-demand sectors among international students is hospitality, as you will find job offers where you can get hired with a basic level of English. Once you improve your English, you can look for a more qualified job in sectors like IT and eGaming, which are also widespread in Malta.
The monthly cost of living in Malta will vary depending on your lifestyle, the area of the island where you want to live, the type of accommodation, your food, the distance to the school where you will study English, and also what you like to do on weekends. Everything adds up!
Below are the prices for the most common expenses you will face while studying and working in Malta, so you can get a clearer idea of the monthly cost of living in Malta.
A typical monthly grocery bill will cost you around 230€.
If you are staying in Malta for a while, it’s a good idea to get a transport card. It’s called the Tallinja Card, and at Dingoos, we will help you get it. The price is 15€, and the first time, you need to load 20€ or more to activate it. In short, you will have an average transport expense of about 30€.
Depending on the type of accommodation, prices will vary. For example, the cost of a single room ranges from 450€ to 650€. You can even reduce the cost to about 300€ per month if you decide to share a room.
This expense will vary depending on what you like to do. For example, if you like going to the beach to sunbathe, you will spend more than if you spend your day at the bar because the beach is free, and a drink costs no less than 8€. So, the expense can range from 0 to a lot, it’s up to you.
On average, we could talk about about 175€ per month for leisure and activities.
In Malta, you can find plans that include phone and internet starting from 25€ per month.
Malta is not an especially expensive country, so you will be able to afford your stay without making major sacrifices. Still, here are some tips for you to know how to save as much as possible during your experience in this Mediterranean gem.
We hope you now have a clearer idea of what the cost of living in Malta is and how much money you need to start your adventure.
And of course, if you’re determined to travel to Malta to study and work or just want more information, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’ll be happy to help you.
Malta is a small paradise in the Mediterranean, an archipelago with a lot of history where you can learn English while enjoying the Mediterranean diet and the sun. Keep reading and discover why Malta is your destination.
Amanda De Mingo, Events Manager at Dingoos, shares how every activity she organizes turns your international adventure into a unique experience filled with fun, learning, and friendships that last forever.
