Finding Your First Room in Malta: The Complete Guide for Newcomers

Moving to a new country is exhilarating, terrifying, and everything in between. If Malta is your destination, you're joining thousands of people who've made this Mediterranean archipelago their home — drawn by sunshine, opportunity, and a unique quality of life that's hard to find elsewhere. But before you can start enjoying everything Malta has to offer, you need somewhere to live. And that's where things can get complicated.

Finding your first room in Malta is a rite of passage that every newcomer must navigate. The market moves fast, competition is fierce, and the rules of the game aren't always obvious to outsiders. But don't worry — we've helped thousands of people find their perfect room in Malta, and we're going to share everything we've learned in this comprehensive guide.

Whether you're arriving in Malta next week or planning your move for next year, this guide will equip you with the knowledge, strategies, and confidence you need to secure great accommodation. Let's dive in.

Understanding the Malta Rental Market

Before you start browsing listings and scheduling viewings, it's essential to understand what makes Malta's rental market unique. This context will help you set realistic expectations and make smarter decisions throughout your search.

Why Malta's Market Is Different

Malta is one of the most densely populated countries in the world. With around 500,000 residents packed into just 316 square kilometers, space is at an absolute premium. This geographic reality shapes everything about the rental market.

Unlike larger countries where you can simply move to a more affordable area if prices are too high, Malta offers limited options for geographic arbitrage. Yes, some areas are more expensive than others, but the entire island is essentially one interconnected urban area with a shared housing market. There's no equivalent of moving to the suburbs to find cheaper rent — the "suburbs" are just ten minutes down the road and face similar demand pressures.

The population has grown significantly in recent years, driven primarily by Malta's thriving iGaming industry, financial services sector, and attractive tax regime for international workers. This influx of well-paid professionals has pushed rental prices upward across the board, making it challenging for newcomers to find affordable accommodation, especially in popular areas.

The Shared Living Culture

One distinctive feature of Malta's rental market is the prevalence of shared accommodation. While renting your own apartment is certainly possible, the high cost of private rentals means that sharing a flat or house with roommates is the norm for many people, including professionals well into their careers.

This isn't necessarily a negative thing. Malta's shared living culture has created a vibrant community of flatshares, with people from dozens of different countries living together and forming lasting friendships. For newcomers especially, having roommates can provide an instant social network and valuable local knowledge.

If you're coming from a country where adults living with roommates is uncommon, it's worth adjusting your expectations. In Malta, it's perfectly normal — and often the smartest financial decision you can make.

Seasonal Fluctuations

Malta's rental market experiences significant seasonal variation, which can work for or against you depending on when you're searching.

The busiest periods typically coincide with the start of academic semesters in September and February, when students flood the market looking for accommodation near the University of Malta and various language schools. Summer months also see increased competition as tourism-related workers arrive and some landlords shift properties to more lucrative short-term rentals.

The quietest periods — and often the best times to search — are late autumn (November-December) and early spring (March-April). During these windows, you'll face less competition and may have more negotiating power on rent and terms.

Of course, you can't always time your arrival to match market conditions. If you're moving for a job that starts in September, you'll need to compete with everyone else. Just be prepared for a more challenging search and consider starting earlier than you might otherwise.

Setting Your Budget

Before you start your search, you need to establish a realistic budget. This is more complex than simply looking at your income and picking a number — Malta has its own rental cost structure that newcomers often find surprising.

Current Rental Prices in Malta

As of 2026, here's a general overview of what you can expect to pay for different types of accommodation across Malta's main rental areas:

Shared Room in a Flat

Budget areas (Marsa, Hamrun, Qormi): €350-500/month
Mid-range areas (Gzira, Msida, Birkirkara): €450-650/month
Premium areas (Sliema, St Julian's, Valletta): €550-850/month

Private Room in a Shared Flat

Budget areas: €450-600/month
Mid-range areas: €550-800/month
Premium areas: €700-1,100/month

Studio or One-Bedroom Apartment

Budget areas: €700-900/month
Mid-range areas: €850-1,200/month
Premium areas: €1,100-1,800/month

These figures represent typical market rates but can vary significantly based on specific location, property condition, included amenities, and whether utilities are included in the rent.

Understanding What's Included

When comparing rental prices, always clarify what's included. Some rentals are "all-inclusive," meaning utilities (electricity, water, internet) are covered in the monthly rent. Others require you to pay utilities separately, which can add €50-150 or more to your monthly costs depending on usage and season.

Air conditioning deserves special attention. Malta gets extremely hot in summer, and running AC can dramatically increase your electricity bill. Some landlords include AC usage in the rent, while others charge separately or limit usage. Make sure you understand the arrangement before committing.

Internet is increasingly included in rentals, but not universally. If you work remotely or stream a lot of content, confirm internet speed and whether it's included in your rent.

The Deposit Reality

Standard practice in Malta is to pay a deposit equal to one month's rent, though some landlords request two months, especially for furnished properties or higher-end rentals. You'll typically need to pay the first month's rent plus deposit upfront, meaning you need at least two months' rent available when signing a lease.

Additionally, many landlords or agents charge an agency fee, usually equal to half a month's rent or one month's rent. While this practice is less common for shared rooms, it's standard for private apartments.

Plan your budget accordingly. If you're looking at a room costing €600/month with a one-month deposit and half-month agency fee, you'll need €1,500 available just to secure the room, before you've bought groceries or set up your phone plan.

The 30% Rule and Malta Reality

Financial advisors often recommend spending no more than 30% of your income on housing. In Malta, this rule is difficult to follow for many renters, especially those early in their careers or in lower-paying industries.

Be honest with yourself about what you can afford, but also recognize that spending a higher percentage on rent might be necessary, at least initially. Many people in Malta spend 35-45% of their income on housing. This isn't ideal, but it's the reality of an expensive market on a small island.

If your budget is tight, prioritize finding a well-located shared room over a private space in a remote area. Living centrally can reduce or eliminate transportation costs, and the social benefits of good housemates can outweigh the privacy trade-offs.

Choosing the Right Area

Malta's small size means everywhere is relatively accessible, but your choice of neighborhood will significantly impact your daily life. Here's an overview of the main areas where newcomers typically search for accommodation.

Sliema and St Julian's

These neighboring towns form the heart of Malta's expat scene. Sliema is more residential and family-friendly, while St Julian's is known for its nightlife, especially in the Paceville area. Both offer excellent amenities, seafront promenades, abundant restaurants and cafes, and easy access to public transport.

Pros: Vibrant social scene, walkable amenities, great restaurants, international community, seafront location Cons: Highest rental prices, busy and noisy (especially St Julian's), parking nightmare, can feel touristy

Best for: Young professionals who want to be in the center of the action and don't mind paying premium prices

Gzira and Msida

These areas border Sliema but offer more affordable options. Gzira has undergone significant development and offers a good balance of convenience and value. Msida is home to the University of Malta, making it popular with students but also attracting young professionals.

Pros: More affordable than Sliema/St Julian's, good public transport, university nearby, improving amenities Cons: Less prestigious addresses, some areas quite traffic-heavy, fewer upscale restaurants

Best for: Students, budget-conscious professionals, those who want proximity to Sliema without Sliema prices

Valletta

Malta's capital is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a unique living experience within historic fortified walls. Living in Valletta means being surrounded by stunning architecture, cultural institutions, and a growing cafe and restaurant scene.

Pros: Historic atmosphere, cultural events, walkable city center, improving public spaces, unique character Cons: Limited parking, older building stock (some poorly maintained), can be noisy during festivals, limited supermarket options

Best for: Culture lovers, those who work in Valletta, people who prefer character over modern conveniences

Birkirkara, Mosta, and Naxxar

These inland towns offer a more authentically Maltese experience at generally lower prices than coastal areas. They're well-connected by bus routes and offer a full range of local amenities.

Pros: Lower rents, more local character, good amenities, central location Cons: Less glamorous addresses, further from beaches, car helpful for some locations

Best for: Budget-conscious renters, those wanting to experience "real Malta," families

The South: Marsaskala, Marsaxlokk, and Beyond

Southern Malta offers the lowest rental prices but is the most removed from the main employment and entertainment centers in the north. These areas suit people who don't mind longer commutes and prefer quieter, more traditional communities.

Pros: Lowest prices, authentic fishing village character (Marsaxlokk), less crowded beaches Cons: Limited public transport, car almost essential, far from Sliema/St Julian's scene, fewer international residents

Best for: Remote workers, those with cars, people seeking peace and affordability over convenience

Gozo

Malta's sister island offers a completely different pace of life — quieter, greener, and more relaxed. Rentals are generally cheaper than comparable properties on the main island, but you'll need to factor in ferry commute time and cost if you work in Malta.

Pros: Lower prices, peaceful atmosphere, beautiful countryside, strong community feeling Cons: Ferry commute required for Malta jobs, limited nightlife, car necessary, fewer services

Best for: Remote workers, retirees, those prioritizing quality of life over urban convenience

Where to Find Listings

Now that you understand the market and know what you're looking for, it's time to start your search. Here are the main channels for finding room listings in Malta.

Online Platforms

Room4Rent is, of course, our own platform, designed specifically for people looking for rooms and shared accommodation in Malta. We verify listings where possible and provide a user-friendly search experience focused on the local market.

Facebook groups remain hugely important in Malta's rental market. Groups like "Rent in Malta," "Expats in Malta," and various nationality-specific groups often have listings that don't appear elsewhere. The downside is that Facebook groups can be chaotic, with scams mixed in among legitimate listings.

General classifieds sites and international platforms also have Malta listings, though they tend to focus more on entire apartments than shared rooms.

Word of Mouth

Never underestimate the power of personal networks in Malta. Many of the best rooms never get publicly listed — they're passed between friends and colleagues. If you know anyone already living in Malta, let them know you're searching. Post on social media that you're looking. Ask new colleagues if they know of anything.

Even if you don't know anyone yet, reaching out to expat communities online before your arrival can start building connections that might lead to accommodation opportunities.

Walking the Streets

This might sound old-fashioned, but walking around your target neighborhood and looking for "To Let" signs still works in Malta. Some landlords, especially older Maltese property owners, don't bother with online listings. They simply put a sign in the window and wait for calls.

If you're already in Malta and have time, spending an afternoon walking through Gzira or Birkirkara can reveal opportunities you'd never find online.

Evaluating Listings and Spotting Red Flags

Not all listings are created equal, and unfortunately, the Malta rental market has its share of scams and problematic landlords. Here's how to evaluate what you're seeing and protect yourself.

Red Flags in Listings

Price too good to be true: If a listing offers a private apartment in Sliema for €500/month, something is wrong. Either it's a scam, the photos aren't accurate, or there's a serious problem with the property. Compare any listing against market rates for the area.

Vague or missing photos: Legitimate landlords want to show off their properties. If a listing has only one or two photos, or the photos are blurry and show almost nothing, be suspicious.

Requests for payment before viewing: Never, ever pay money before you've seen a property in person. Scammers often claim they're abroad and ask for a deposit to "hold" the room. Legitimate landlords expect you to view first.

Pressure to decide immediately: While the Malta market does move fast, any landlord who pressures you to commit without seeing the property or reading the contract is suspect.

No contract offered: A proper rental agreement protects both parties. If a landlord wants to operate without a written contract, walk away.

Questions to Ask Before Viewing

Before scheduling a viewing, ask:

Is the room/property still available?
What is the total monthly cost including utilities?
What is the minimum rental period?
Are you the landlord or an agent?
Who else lives in the property (for shared accommodation)?
Is the property furnished?

The answers will help you filter out unsuitable options before investing time in viewings.

What to Check During Viewings

When you visit a property, pay attention to:

Water pressure: Turn on taps and shower. Low water pressure is a common complaint in Malta.

Air conditioning: Check that AC units work and ask about usage costs/restrictions.

Natural light: Malta is sunny, but some older buildings have small windows. Dark rooms can affect your mood.

Storage space: Maltese properties often have limited closet space. Make sure you can actually fit your belongings.

Noise levels: Visit at different times if possible. A quiet afternoon might become a noisy evening if you're near a bar district.

Internet: Ask about internet provider and speed. Test with your phone if possible.

Building condition: Look for damp spots, cracks, or signs of poor maintenance. These issues are common in older Maltese buildings.

Roommate vibe: For shared accommodation, trust your instincts about potential housemates. You'll be living with these people.

Negotiating and Securing Your Room

You've found a place you like. Now it's time to close the deal. Here's how to negotiate effectively and protect yourself in the process.

Is Negotiation Possible?

In Malta's competitive market, negotiation can be challenging, especially for in-demand properties in popular areas. However, it's almost always worth asking. The worst that can happen is the landlord says no.

You have more negotiating power if:

It's off-season (winter months)
The property has been listed for a while
You're offering a longer lease term
You can move in immediately when the landlord has a vacancy
You're a obviously reliable tenant (stable job, good references)

Consider negotiating on:

Monthly rent (even €25-50/month adds up over a year)
Deposit amount
Inclusion of utilities
Minor repairs or furniture additions
Flexible move-in date

Understanding Your Contract

Before signing anything, read the entire rental contract carefully. Key things to verify:

Rent amount and payment terms: Confirm the exact amount, due date, and accepted payment methods.

Deposit terms: How much, and under what conditions will it be returned?

Lease duration and renewal: What's the minimum term? What happens at the end?

Notice period: How much notice must you give to leave? How much must the landlord give you?

Utility responsibilities: Who pays what? Are there any usage caps?

Maintenance responsibilities: Who handles repairs? Who pays?

House rules: For shared properties, are there written rules about guests, noise, cleaning, etc.?

Inventory list: Is there a detailed list of furniture and items? This protects you from disputes when you leave.

If anything is unclear or seems unfair, ask questions before signing. You can request changes to contract terms — the landlord might not agree, but it's your right to ask.

Protecting Your Deposit

Deposit disputes are one of the most common complaints in Malta's rental market. Protect yourself by:

Documenting everything: Take photos and videos of the entire property before moving in. Note any existing damage or wear, no matter how minor. Send this documentation to the landlord in writing (email is fine) and keep a copy.

Getting a proper inventory: Ensure the contract includes a detailed inventory of all furniture and items. Check that everything listed actually exists and is in the condition described.

Keeping records: Save all communications with your landlord, receipts for rent payments, and any documentation of issues or repairs during your tenancy.

Understanding deductions: Normal wear and tear should not be deducted from your deposit. However, damage beyond normal use is your responsibility. Know the difference.

Moving In and Beyond

Congratulations — you've secured your room! Here are some final tips for starting your new life in Malta.

Essential First Steps

Register your address: If you're an EU citizen staying long-term, you'll need to register your address with the authorities. Non-EU citizens will handle this through their visa/residence permit process.

Set up utilities: If utilities aren't included, you'll need to register with ARMS (water and electricity) and choose an internet provider (GO, Melita, and Epic are the main options).

Get a local phone number: Maltese businesses and services often require a local number. SIM cards are easily available at phone shops throughout the island.

Learn the bus system: Malta's public transport is affordable and reasonably comprehensive. The Tallinja app is essential for planning routes and buying tickets.

Find your local shops: Locate your nearest supermarket, pharmacy, and other essential services. Each neighborhood has its own selection.

Building Relationships

If you're in shared accommodation, invest time in getting to know your housemates. A good relationship with roommates can transform your Malta experience. Have house meals together, communicate clearly about issues, and be a considerate flatmate yourself.

Similarly, a good relationship with your landlord makes everything easier. Pay rent on time, report problems promptly but reasonably, and be respectful of the property. Good tenants often get lease renewals, favorable terms, and helpful references for future rentals.

When Things Go Wrong

Even with careful preparation, problems can arise. If you have issues with your accommodation:

Communicate first: Most problems can be resolved through direct conversation with your landlord or roommates. Approach issues calmly and constructively.

Document everything: Keep records of any problems, communications, and responses (or lack thereof).

Know your rights: Maltese law provides certain protections for tenants. Familiarize yourself with your legal rights, especially regarding habitability, repairs, and deposit returns.

Seek help if needed: Organizations like the Housing Authority can provide guidance on serious disputes. For significant legal issues, consulting a lawyer may be necessary.

Final Thoughts

Finding your first room in Malta requires patience, preparation, and persistence. The market can be challenging, especially for newcomers unfamiliar with local practices. But thousands of people successfully make this transition every year, and with the right approach, you will too.

Remember that your first rental doesn't have to be your forever home. Many newcomers start with a short-term or compromise option while they learn the market and build local networks, then move to their ideal place once they're established. There's no shame in starting with a budget shared room and upgrading later.

Malta rewards those who engage with its community. The more connections you make, the more opportunities will come your way — including accommodation opportunities. Don't isolate yourself in your search. Join expat groups, attend events, and build relationships. These connections will serve you well beyond just finding a room.

Most importantly, don't get discouraged. The search can be frustrating, especially when you face rejection or lose out on properties you loved. Keep going. The right room is out there, and you will find it.

Welcome to Malta. Your adventure is just beginning.

Have questions about finding accommodation in Malta? Drop them in the comments below, or reach out to us directly. We're here to help you find your perfect room.