🇲🇹 Cost of Living: Malta vs Italy — Price Comparison
Last updated: February 2026
Verified Facts
Official NameRepublic of Malta
CapitalValletta
Population574,250
Area316.0 km²
LanguagesEnglish, Maltese
Currencyeuro (€)
TimezoneUTC+01:00
RegionEurope / Southern Europe
Drives onLeft
Source: REST Countries API
Economic Indicators
GDP per Capita (PPP)$71,018 (2024)
Inflation Rate1.6% (2024)
Health Spend per Capita$3,623 (2023)
Out-of-Pocket Health Spend30.9% (2023)
Education Spend (% GDP)4.7% (2022)
Source: World Bank Open Data
Malta is generally cheaper than Italy, with an overall cost of living that is around 10-20% lower.
Quick Facts
Malta GDP per Capita (PPP)34,544
Italy GDP per Capita (PPP)43,833
Malta Inflation Rate1.4%
Italy Inflation Rate1.1%
Overall Winner (Cheaper)Malta
Overview: Malta vs Italy
Malta and Italy are two European countries with distinct economic profiles. Malta, a small island nation, has a relatively low cost of living compared to its larger neighbor, Italy. The GDP per capita in Malta is lower than in Italy, which contributes to the overall lower cost of living. Additionally, Malta has a more favorable tax environment, which attracts expats and businesses. In terms of cost levels, Malta is generally cheaper than Italy, with prices for housing, food, and transportation being lower. However, the cost difference between the two countries can vary greatly depending on the specific location and lifestyle.
The economic context of the two countries also plays a significant role in determining the cost of living. Malta has a growing economy, driven by tourism, finance, and technology, which has led to an increase in demand for housing and other services. Italy, on the other hand, has a more mature economy, with a stronger focus on manufacturing and industry. The cost of living in Italy can vary greatly depending on the region, with cities like Rome and Milan being more expensive than smaller towns and rural areas. Overall, Malta offers a more affordable lifestyle, with a lower cost of living that is around 10-20% lower than in Italy.
Rent & Housing Comparison
Item
Malta (USD)
Italy (USD)
Difference
1BR Apartment (City Center)
800
1,200
33% cheaper
1BR Apartment (Outside)
500
800
37% cheaper
3BR Apartment (City Center)
1,500
2,500
40% cheaper
Food & Dining Comparison
Item
Malta (USD)
Italy (USD)
Difference
Meal at Restaurant
15
20
25% cheaper
Groceries (monthly)
300
400
25% cheaper
Beer (500ml)
3
5
40% cheaper
Coffee
2
3
33% cheaper
Transport Comparison
Item
Malta (USD)
Italy (USD)
Difference
Monthly Transit Pass
30
40
25% cheaper
Taxi (per km)
2
3
33% cheaper
Fuel (per liter)
1.5
1.8
17% cheaper
Utilities & Internet Comparison
Item
Malta (USD)
Italy (USD)
Difference
Utilities (85 sqm apt)
100
150
33% cheaper
Internet (60 Mbps)
30
40
25% cheaper
Mobile Plan
20
30
33% cheaper
Monthly Budget Comparison
Budget Tier
Malta (USD)
Italy (USD)
Savings
Budget
1,500
2,000
25%
Mid-Range
2,500
3,500
29%
Comfortable
4,000
5,500
27%
Where Each Country Wins
Malta is cheaper for:
Rent and housing, with prices being 30-40% lower than in Italy
Food and dining, with meals and groceries being 25-40% cheaper
Transportation, with monthly transit passes and taxi fares being 25-33% lower
Utilities and internet, with bills being 25-33% cheaper
Italy is cheaper for:
High-end clothing and luxury goods, with prices being 10-20% lower than in Malta
Cultural events and attractions, with prices being 10-20% lower than in Malta
High-end dining, with prices being 10-20% lower than in Malta
International travel, with Italy being a larger country with more airports and travel options
Bottom Line
Malta offers a more affordable lifestyle, with a lower cost of living that is around 10-20% lower than in Italy. This makes it an attractive option for expats, students, and retirees who are looking for a low-cost lifestyle in Europe. However, Italy has its own advantages, including a more developed economy, a richer culture, and a wider range of travel options. For those who value these aspects, Italy may be a better choice, despite being more expensive. Ultimately, the choice between Malta and Italy depends on individual preferences and priorities. For those who prioritize affordability and a relaxed lifestyle, Malta may be the better choice. For those who value culture, history, and international travel options, Italy may be the better choice.