Living in Malta in 2027: Cost of Living, New Government Budget and What You Need to Know

Living in Malta in 2027: New Costs, Government Budget Changes and What to Expect

Malta remains a popular destination for international workers, families and people looking for a Mediterranean lifestyle. But with rental prices, everyday expenses and government policies changing, living on the island in 2027 may require more financial planning than before.

On 26 October 2026, the Maltese government announced its Budget for 2027, introducing measures affecting wages, taxation, public transport and residence-related costs.

Some changes aim to support households, while others introduce additional expenses, particularly for certain third-country nationals.

So, what should you expect if you’re already living in Malta or planning to move here in 2027?

How Much Will It Cost to Live in Malta in 2027?

Housing remains one of the biggest monthly expenses in Malta. Popular areas such as Sliema and St Julian’s continue to attract strong rental demand, particularly from international professionals.

For 2027, someone renting a room in a shared apartment might budget approximately €450 to €750 per month. A one-bedroom apartment could cost around €850 to €1,300, depending on its location, condition and amenities.

Groceries for one person may cost approximately €250 to €380 per month, with utilities, mobile services, transport and leisure adding to the total.

As a general planning guide, a single person sharing accommodation might need around €1,100 to €1,700 per month, while someone renting independently could need between €1,500 and €2,500.

These are estimates based on recent costs, not confirmed 2027 prices. Actual expenses will depend on your lifestyle, locality and housing arrangements.

Malta’s 2027 Budget: What Is Changing?

The government has announced several measures intended to support purchasing power and economic stability.

One of the main changes is a weekly Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) of €6.41 for eligible workers. The national minimum wage is also set to increase by €10.41 per week, including COLA.

Another announcement is a one-off, tax-free Super Bonus of up to €1,000 for qualifying workers, expected during the first quarter of 2027. Eligibility depends on previous employment income and other conditions, meaning people newly arriving in Malta may not qualify.

The government also intends to continue subsidising electricity, fuel and gas prices. This could help limit pressure on household budgets, although individual utility bills will still depend on consumption and the property.

Certain families with children are also expected to benefit from additional income tax relief.

New Expenses for Third-Country Nationals

For people moving to Malta from outside the EU, some of the most significant Budget announcements concern immigration and transport expenses.

The standard fee for new work permit applications is expected to increase from €600 to €800. An additional annual infrastructure contribution of €400 has also been announced for affected new applications and renewals.

Changes to free public transport are another consideration. Under the announced measures, certain third-country nationals without qualifying long-term residence status will no longer benefit from free public transport and may face a monthly charge of €33.

The government also announced changes affecting some holders of non-EU driving licences, along with restrictions on free childcare eligibility for certain non-EU residents.

Not every measure will apply to every foreign resident, and some costs may be covered by employers. Anyone relocating in 2027 should check the final eligibility rules and permit requirements before making financial commitments.

Where Can You Live More Affordably in Malta?

Location can make a substantial difference to your living expenses.

Sliema and St Julian’s remain convenient for residents who want access to business centres, restaurants and entertainment. However, accommodation in these localities often comes at a premium.

Gżira and Msida can offer alternatives for people who want to remain centrally located, particularly students and professionals.

Further north, St Paul’s Bay, Buġibba and Qawra provide a broader range of coastal accommodation, while localities such as Marsaskala may appeal to people looking for quieter surroundings.

Choosing a slightly less central property can help reduce rental expenses, but remember to calculate commuting costs and travel time before deciding.

For more information about different localities, read our Best Places to Live in Malta for Expats in 2027 guide.

Will Utility Bills Increase in 2027?

Electricity and water are important considerations when renting, particularly during Malta’s hot summer months.

The government has announced that energy subsidies will continue in 2027, helping to maintain price stability despite external pressures.

However, your actual expenses will depend on the property’s energy efficiency, the number of residents and how frequently air conditioning or heating is used.

Before signing a rental agreement, consider asking the landlord about typical monthly electricity and water bills, and confirm that the appropriate residential tariffs apply.

A cheaper property with inefficient air conditioning may not always be the most economical option over a full year.

Is Malta Still Worth Moving to in 2027?

Despite rising housing expenses and new administrative costs, Malta continues to offer attractive opportunities for international residents.

Its English-speaking environment, Mediterranean climate and employment opportunities remain important reasons why people choose to relocate.

However, affordability is becoming increasingly dependent on salary, accommodation choices and residence status.

For someone earning an entry-level salary, renting independently in a high-demand locality may be challenging. Sharing accommodation or choosing an area outside the main business districts can make monthly expenses more manageable.

For families and third-country nationals, understanding eligibility for government support and any additional administrative charges is especially important.

Planning Your Move to Malta

If you’re considering relocating in 2027, start by calculating your realistic monthly budget rather than focusing only on the advertised rental price.

Allow for accommodation, utility bills, groceries, transport and any relevant permit expenses. You should also consider initial costs such as rental deposits and applicable agency fees.

When comparing properties, think about your commute, local amenities and whether the property suits your longer-term plans.

Finding the right home is one of the most important steps towards making your move to Malta successful.

At RentalMarket.mt, you can explore available rental properties across Malta and compare different localities to find accommodation that fits your lifestyle and budget.

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Last updated: 29 October 2026. This article reflects Malta’s announced 2027 Budget measures and indicative living-cost estimates. Some government measures remain subject to final rules and implementation. For official information, consult the Maltese government, Identità and the relevant authorities.