Malta may be a small country, but for what it lacks in size, it
makes up for in a range of great places to live. Whether you are
looking to rent or buy, there are a number of places of interest
across Malta and Gozo. Whether you want laidback coastal living or
to be in the thick of the Malta social scene, there is the perfect
place for you. So what are the best places to live in Malta?
Let’s find out!
Marsaskala – Affordable living by the sea
Marsaskala is a seaside town located in the southeast of Malta,
just 20 minutes from the airport and the capital of Valletta. It is
home to around 12,100 people in the winter, but it increases to
over 20,000 in the summer as tourists and locals flock to its
beaches and coastline. A popular location for expats, the
once-fishing village enjoys a pleasant nightlife with several bars
and restaurants dotted along its expansive promenade. Marsaskala is
also home to several gyms, a sports centre, several public schools,
a water polo club, and several hotels.
In terms of recreation, it has a small sandy beach, St Thomas
Bay, flanked by stoney shorelines, waterfront lidos, water sports
opportunities, and plenty of designated swimming areas with steps
for swimmers. Rental and purchase prices are lower than in some
areas, and inhabitants can choose from sprawling villas, apartments
and penthouses, as well as some older, more traditional properties.
It is also home to Ta’Monita, a Special Designated Area,
meaning it is more accessible for foreigners who want to buy.
View The Latests Property For Sale or For Rent in Marsascala
Sliema – A home in the heart of the country
While not Malta’s capital, Sliema is a hub of activity
located in the central coastal and harbour region. Home to some
23,000 people, it is the main shopping, tourism, and hospitality
district and attracts thousands of visitors annually It is also the
location for many big companies, including marketing, iGaming,
finserv, fintech, and corporate services, making it the perfect
place for those working in those sectors. In terms of connections,
it is served by multiple bus routes, a ferry to Valletta, and easy
access to all arterial roads.
The airport is 30 minutes away, and there is a connection to
Valletta by ferry. Sliema also has a number of schools in the area,
including public institutions and some of the best Maltese and
international private schools in the country. The public hospital
is a stone’s throw away, but it is also served by a multitude
of private clinics. Regarding property, Sliema is famed for its
palazzos, traditional townhouses, and high-end luxury apartment
complexes. Other amenities include sports centres and gyms,
historical sites, nightclubs, and even a casino. It is an affluent
area and definitely the poshest, and prices here are amongst the
highest in the country, both in terms of rental and
purchasing.
View The Latests Property For Sale or For Rent in Sliema
Pembroke and surrounding areas – Great for families and
professionals
Situated in the northern region of Malta, Pembroke is a town
situated between St Julian’s and Sweiqi, both popular places to
live in their own right. It sits on the edge of the coast and is
served by several bays and beaches that are popular with swimmers.
With around 5000, mainly younger residents, it is a good choice for
those working in Sliema or St Julians who want to live in an easily
commutable distance. It is known for a high concentration of
schools, including the Verdala International School and a branch of
Middlesex University.
It is well linked to roads and public transport and the airport
is 30 minutes away, with Valletta 20 minutes and the Gozo ferry
another 30. For young professionals or families, Pembroke and
neighbouring Swieqi are extremely sensible choices. Also with
consideration is Madliena which features luxury flats and
developments, maisonettes, and villas all for rent or
purchase.
View The Latests Property For Rent in Pembroke
Victoria – Historic charm a stone’s throw from the
beach
Otherwise known as Rabat, Victoria is the capital of Malta’s
sister island of Gozo and one of the best neighbourhoods. It has
around 7000 inhabitants and is the largest locality on the island.
The city is popular with othose who work online, but also many
commute via car and ferry to Malta due to good transport links.
Victoria is particularly suited to those who want to live in a hub
of culture and history. It is home to St George’s Basilica, an
old prison, historic houses, museums of folklore, science and
archaeology, churches, a citadella, war shelters, various squares,
and a cathedral.
There is a theatre and art galleries as well as great
restaurants and cafes that work all year round. In terms of
schools, it has primary and secondary schools that are both private
and public, and a branch of the University of Malta. Rental and
purchase prices are lower than in mainland Malta, but demand can be
higher due to its smaller size. Choose from new apartments and
penthouses, or traditional townhouses, farm houses, villas and
palazzos.
View The Latests Property For Sale or For Rent in Victoria
Gozo
The Three Cities – Well connected traditional living
For those looking for something a little different and
definitely quieter, the Three Cities is worth consideration.
Collectively known as The Three Cities, the area comprises the
towns of Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua and can also be referred
to as Cottonera, including the nearby town of Kalkara. The three
areas are home to some 11,000 people, but the number is increasing
in line with its popularity. Traditionally very Maltese areas, the
Three Cities are becoming popular as a place to live due to the
picturesque surroundings and quick ferry and bus links to Valletta
and Sliema.
The area is walled with ancient fortifications and is home to
winding stone streets, old townhouses and palazzos, and enough
developments to cater to those with a more modern taste. The
airport is 20 minutes away, as is the main Mater Dei hospital and
the capital of Valletta. As for recreation, there are several
museums, good shopping in nearby Paola, and a luxury yacht marina
studded with delicious eateries and quaint bars. In terms of
education, there are various schools teaching in English and
Maltese, as well as the American University of Malta.
View The Latest Property For Sale or For Rent in The Three Cities
Frequently Asked Questions:
Do wealthy people live in Malta?
Malta us home to people from all walks of life and different
backgrounds. Those buying or renting property include
professionals, local people, families, and those who have availed
themselves of various residence or citizenship schemes that have
real estate as qualifying criteria.
You do not have to be wealthy to live in Malta as you can find
accommodation to suit every budget, but if you are a high net worth
individual, you will find luxury and high-end properties to suit
your taste.
Is it better to rent or buy in Malta?
This depends entirely on your intentions. If you are looking to
invest in property then you will find plenty of opportunities in
Malta. The real estate sector is booming and there is plenty of
interest both in the short and long term. Any investment will serve
you well and you have the opportunity to rent it out for short or
long term guests. Malta is a small island and land is scarce, so
property increases in value over time.
Alternatively, if you are just in Malta for a year or two, or
have not yet made your mind up, then renting is a good solution. It
can allow you to get a feel for the country before making any
investments.
Are there any disadvantages to living in
Malta?
Every country, city, and village has its pros and cons and Malta
is no exception. But what the disadvantages are will depend on your
own personal tastes and preferences. For example, some find Malta
too crowded and noisy, while others prefer to live in a lively and
bustling city such as Sliema. Others may find prices a little high,
while some will find them drastically different compared to their
home country. There is no easy answer to this question, therefore
you should visit Malta and decide for yourself.
The content of this article is intended to provide a general
guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought
about your specific circumstances.