Where to Live in Malta as an Expat

Malta's Expat Population

Malta has one of the highest proportions of foreign residents in Europe — roughly 25% of the population. Most are drawn by jobs in iGaming, financial services, tech, and remote work. Others come for retirement, studies at the University of Malta, or simply the Mediterranean lifestyle.

Where you choose to live will depend on where you work, your budget, and what kind of lifestyle you want. Here's an honest guide to the main expat areas.

Sliema — The Default Choice

Most expats land in Sliema, and for good reason. It's where the action is — restaurants, shops, seafront, nightlife, and walkability. Many iGaming companies have offices in or near Sliema.

Best for: Young professionals, sociable expats, those who want a car-free lifestyle Budget: €900-€1,400/month for a 1-bed; €1,200-€2,000 for a 2-bed Pros: Everything within walking distance, best restaurant scene, large expat community Cons: Most expensive area, parking impossible, noisy, older building stock

St Julian's — Work and Play

Many iGaming companies are based around St Julian's, particularly in the Portomaso Business Tower and the Dragonara area. Living here means a potential walking commute and proximity to Paceville nightlife.

Best for: iGaming professionals, night owls, young single expats Budget: €900-€1,500/month for a 1-bed Pros: Close to major employers, vibrant social scene, Spinola Bay is beautiful Cons: Paceville noise, traffic congestion, expensive

Gzira — The Smart Alternative

Just south of Sliema across the Marsamxett harbour, Gzira offers many of the same benefits at lower prices. The Manoel Island views are stunning, and the area has improved significantly in recent years with new restaurants and developments.

Best for: Budget-conscious expats who still want to be near Sliema, couples Budget: €700-€1,000/month for a 1-bed; €900-€1,400 for a 2-bed Pros: 10-minute walk to Sliema, harbour views, growing food scene, cheaper rents Cons: Less developed commercially than Sliema, some rougher pockets

Msida — The University Quarter

Home to the University of Malta, Msida attracts students and academics. It's also popular with young professionals on a budget. The Msida yacht marina is pleasant, and the area has good bus connections.

Best for: Students, budget-conscious professionals, those working at the university Budget: €600-€900/month for a 1-bed Pros: Cheapest of the central areas, good transport, close to Sliema and Birkirkara Cons: Less attractive streetscape, busy traffic corridors, limited dining options

Swieqi — Suburban Quiet

Sitting on the hill above St Julian's, Swieqi is a residential suburb that offers quiet streets and newer apartment buildings. It's popular with expat families and professionals who want peace but still want to be near the coast.

Best for: Expat families, couples, remote workers Budget: €750-€1,100/month for a 2-bed Pros: Quiet, modern buildings, close to St Julian's, good parking Cons: Need a car for most errands, limited walking-distance amenities, hilly

Ta' Xbiex / Pieta

Two small towns between Msida and Valletta, sitting along the waterfront. Ta' Xbiex is home to several embassies and has a genteel, quiet atmosphere. Pieta offers access to the Marsa sports complex.

Best for: Professionals working in Valletta, embassy staff, those who prefer quiet Budget: €700-€1,000/month for a 1-bed Pros: Waterfront walks, proximity to Valletta, quieter than Sliema Cons: Limited nightlife and restaurants, small supermarkets only

Practical Considerations for Expats

Transport

Malta has no metro or tram. Public buses serve the whole island but can be slow and unreliable. Most expats end up getting a car, though those in Sliema/St Julian's can manage without one. Bolt and eCabs are widely used for taxis.

Social Life

The easiest way to meet other expats is through:

• Work — iGaming companies often have social events
• Sport — running clubs, football leagues, diving groups, climbing gyms
• Facebook groups — "Expats in Malta" and similar groups are very active
• Co-working spaces — good for remote workers to make connections

Language

English is an official language of Malta and is spoken by virtually everyone. You can live, work, and navigate bureaucracy entirely in English. Learning a few Maltese phrases earns you goodwill but isn't necessary for daily life.

Healthcare

Malta has both public and private healthcare. EU citizens can use the public system with an EHIC/GHIC card. Most expats also take out private health insurance for faster access and specialist care. Mater Dei Hospital in Msida is the main public hospital.

Banking

Opening a bank account in Malta can be slow — expect 2-4 weeks. BOV and HSBC are the main choices. You'll need your passport, proof of address in Malta, and proof of employment or income. Many expats also use Wise or Revolut for day-to-day spending while waiting for their Maltese account.

The Weather Trap

Everyone comes for the sunshine, but be prepared for:

• Intense heat in July-August (35°C+). AC bills can reach €200+/month
• Humidity, especially in coastal areas
• Rain from November to February — not much, but when it rains, it floods
• Limited insulation in many buildings — winter can be surprisingly cold indoors