The Expat's Complete Guide to Renting in Malta

Malta has become one of Europe's fastest-growing expat destinations. The warm Mediterranean climate, English-speaking population, strong job market, and EU membership make it appealing to professionals from across the globe. With over 125,000 foreign workers in the country and over 90% of rental tenants being non-Maltese, the rental market is fundamentally shaped by expat demand.

Rental prices vary significantly across Malta. As of early 2026, typical monthly rents for apartments include:

• One-bedroom: 1,000 to 1,400 euros
• Three-bedroom: 2,000 to 3,000 euros

• One-bedroom: 1,000 to 1,400 euros (city centre), 700 to 1,100 euros (outskirts)
• Three-bedroom: 2,300 to 3,000 euros (city centre)

• One-bedroom: 1,000 to 1,500 euros
• Three-bedroom: 2,200 to 3,200 euros

• One-bedroom: 650 to 900 euros
• Three-bedroom: 1,200 to 1,800 euros

• One-bedroom: 500 to 800 euros
• Three-bedroom: 900 to 1,400 euros

These prices are for furnished apartments, which is the standard in Malta's expat rental market. Unfurnished rentals are less common but available at somewhat lower prices.

Malta's rental market distinguishes between two main contract types:

The vast majority of rental contracts in Malta (approximately 95%) are long-term leases. These must be registered with the Housing Authority by law. Long-term leases offer tenant protections including limits on rent increases (capped at 5% per year) and notice periods for termination.

Short-term leases are available but offer fewer tenant protections. They are common for holiday rentals and temporary work assignments.

As of mid-2025, there were over 70,589 active rental contracts registered with the Housing Authority, up 7.5% from the year before, reflecting strong and growing demand.

Before starting your search, determine your maximum monthly rent and preferred areas. Consider proximity to your workplace, public transport links, and access to amenities.

Use property portals like HomeLink, engage estate agents, or join social media groups focused on Malta rentals. Many landlords and agents list on multiple platforms, so cast a wide net.

Always visit properties in person before committing. Check water pressure, heating and cooling systems, natural light, noise levels, and the condition of furniture and appliances. Ask about utility costs, which can be surprisingly high in Malta during summer (air conditioning) and winter (heating).

Rental terms are negotiable. Discuss the lease length, included furniture and appliances, responsibility for maintenance, and any planned rent increases. Read the contract carefully before signing.

Standard practice in Malta is one month's rent as a security deposit, plus the first month's rent in advance. Some landlords may request two months' deposit for higher-value properties.

The Maltese rental market has seen significant reform to protect tenants:

• All long-term leases must be registered with the Housing Authority
• Rent increases on existing contracts are capped at 5% per year
• Landlords must give adequate notice before terminating a lease
• Deposits must be returned within a reasonable period after the lease ends, minus any legitimate deductions for damage

Utilities in Malta are managed by ARMS Ltd (a subsidiary of Enemalta). Typical monthly costs for an 85-square-meter apartment are approximately 139 euros for electricity, water, and waste collection. However, this can increase significantly in summer due to air conditioning usage.

Internet is widely available and relatively affordable at 20 to 32 euros per month for broadband packages.

Mobile phone plans with calls and 10GB or more of data cost approximately 28 euros per month.

• Start your search at least one month before your planned move date
• Properties in Malta go quickly; be prepared to make a decision within days
• Insist on a registered contract for your protection
• Take photographs of the property condition before moving in
• Understand that many older Maltese buildings lack central heating; ask about winter comfort
• Air conditioning is essential from June to September
• Check the energy performance of the property; poorly insulated apartments can have very high electricity bills
• Consider proximity to public transport if you do not plan to drive
• Malta's public transport is free for residents with a Tallinja card

• Damp and moisture in older buildings
• Noisy neighbors, especially in apartment blocks
• Limited parking in popular areas
• Landlords who do not register the contract (insist on registration for your protection)
• Unexpected utility bill spikes in temperature extremes