What is the cost of living in Malta?

Indicative monthly for a single foreign worker: €600–€1,200 all-in if accommodation is included by the employer, more if you're renting privately. Groceries, transport and phone together come to around €300–€450.

Is English spoken in Malta?

Yes - English is an official language alongside Maltese. You can live and work in Malta entirely in English.

Where do foreign workers live in Malta?

Common areas include Marsa, Hamrun, Gzira, San Pawl il-Bahar (St Paul's Bay) and Bugibba. Most third-country-national contracts include employer-provided shared accommodation.

Living in Malta as a Foreign Worker - Cost, Housing, Culture (2026)

Living in Malta as a foreign worker

Malta is small, English-speaking and densely populated. Here's what to expect in your first weeks - housing, transport, healthcare, climate and culture.

Cost of living

Indicative monthly costs in Malta for a single foreign worker: shared accommodation €350–€600 (often employer-provided), groceries €200–€350, public transport €26 (Tallinja monthly), phone €15–€25, eating out €10–€25 per meal.

Housing

Most TCN contracts include shared accommodation provided by the employer. If you're house-hunting privately, popular foreign-worker areas include Marsa, Hamrun, Gzira, San Pawl il-Bahar and Bugibba.

Transport

Malta's bus network covers the whole island. Buy a Tallinja card for cheaper fares. Many workers also cycle or use e-scooters. Driving is on the left.

Healthcare

Mater Dei is Malta's main public hospital. Once you're registered and paying NI contributions, you have access to subsidised public healthcare. Private GP visits cost €15–€25.

Culture

Malta is Catholic-majority, family-oriented and warm. Sundays are quieter. Most public services run in English. Tipping in restaurants is 5–10% if service isn't included.