8 Best Places To Live In Malta For Expats
From busy to quiet and everywhere else in between. Let’s look at the 8 top places to live in Malta because going on holiday to Malta and living in Malta are two different things.
This is why searching for accommodation in Malta is a lot different in both cases. It all comes down to, what kind of lifestyle you're after.
8 Top Places to Live in Malta
BUSY
1. St Julians and Sliema (Harbour Area) 🍻
The most active and social part of Malta, with the best nightlife on the island. Full of shops and restaurants, with plenty of entertainment options.
Some downsides to consider:
- Congested traffic.
- Busy with tourists all year round.
- The property prices are the highest.
2. Valletta 🎭
One of the smallest capital cities in Europe, and not the most expensive either. It’s one of the best places to live in Malta if you’re after a cultural experience.
You will find it all. Plenty of cute cafes, bars, and restaurants, but no clubs. The main road tends to get busy with tourists, but in general, the city remains quiet.
3. Ta Xbiex 🍴
One of the most desirable locations to live, for both locals and expats. It’s also one of the most expensive ones on the island. Favored by yacht owners due to its modern marina. Equipped and modern, hosting a lot of different companies.
There are some great cafes and restaurants, as well as some of the best harbor views.
IN BETWEEN
4. Swieqi and Pembroke 🥾
A quiet residential area within walking distance of St Julian's. The area has more of a peaceful character, with all necessities nearby. Quiet but convenient. You can reach Sliema by bus in 15 mins. It’s a good place if you can’t decide between nightlife and peace.
The coastline is still undeveloped and rocky. But it offers paths for hikes along the coast.
5. Madliena ⛲️
Situated between St Paul’s Bay and St. Julian’s, where you're near the best of both worlds. On top of that, you’re surrounded by stunning views.
It’s the place where you’ll find the most villas. Most of the villas come expensive in Malta. If you’re lucky, you come across cheaper ones, which need refurbishments.
QUIET
6. Gozo 🌾
It’s one of the islands of Malta and one of the best places to live. With full of charm and naturally kept beauty, it’s an ideal place if you’re after complete peace.
Accessible via ferries, which run every 45mins. Popular areas include Victoria, Marsalforn, and Xlendi.
It's a popular destination for people who wish to retire and seek slower life.
7. Mellieha and St Paul’s Bay 🏨
The northern part of the island, is the second most popular place to retire. The area has beautiful scenery and a breathtaking coastline. Situated near ferry connection with Gozo.
It has a few hotels, so summers tend to get busy with tourists. Properties here are much cheaper than in Harbour Area.
8. Marsaxlokk 🐟
The land of seafood and some of the best restaurants in Malta. It’s not a favored place to visit by tourists, so that gives you a lot more authenticity and quiet.
The town is famous for its Sunday fish market, and St Peter’s Pool within a 20-minute walk. There is also a great place for snorkeling and cliff jumping, but apart from that, there is not much else to do.
Consider choosing a place to live based on your workplace. Everything is close, but depending on the choice of transport, the commute might still take a while.
Still, having some doubts about moving to Malta?
Is moving to Malta a good idea?
Malta offers a good and comfortable life. It's one of the most affordable countries in the EU, and it's easy to move to.
Can you live in Malta with just English?
Yes. Both English and Maltese are official languages. All information and documents will always have translations.
Is it hard to immigrate to Malta?
With a secure job, or a steady remote income you can move to Malta without a problem. The same goes for a retiree with a good income and health insurance coverage - they also can live a good life in Malta. We covered different types of residency requirements in Malta before.
With 300 days of sun, Malta is a great place to live. Each area has its ups and downs. It all comes down to what kind of life you’re after.
Make sure to check out living in the city vs. the countryside post to check what fits your needs more. We also covered Malta's less-known destinations, where you can find some great options too.
Where are you thinking of moving to? Let us know we are happy to help and advise! 😊