Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the Cyprus Property Pack
Everything you need to know before buying real estate is included in our Cyprus Property Pack
Cyprus offers significantly lower living costs compared to Malta, particularly for housing and daily expenses.
As of September 2025, Cyprus provides a compelling cost advantage across most categories including rent, groceries, dining, and personal services. While utilities and healthcare costs remain similar between both countries, the overall monthly expenses for individuals and families are substantially lower in Cyprus, making it an attractive destination for both property investors and residents seeking Mediterranean living at more affordable rates.
If you want to go deeper, you can check our pack of documents related to the real estate market in Cyprus, based on reliable facts and data, not opinions or rumors.
Cyprus consistently offers lower costs for rent, groceries, dining, and most services compared to Malta.
The largest savings are found in housing costs, with Cyprus city-center apartments costing 30-40% less than equivalent properties in Malta.
| Category | Cyprus (Monthly) | Malta (Monthly) |
|---|---|---|
| 1-Bedroom Rent (City Center) | €700-€900 | €1,200-€1,500 |
| Groceries (Single Person) | €200-€300 | €250-€350 |
| Utilities (1-Bedroom) | €130-€180 | €100-€140 |
| Overall Living Cost (Single) | €1,100-€1,400 | €1,400-€1,800 |
| Overall Living Cost (Family of 4) | €2,600-€3,300 | €3,000-€4,200 |
What is the cost of rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center of Cyprus versus Malta?
Cyprus offers substantially cheaper rental costs compared to Malta for city-center apartments.
In Cyprus, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center of Nicosia or Limassol typically costs between €700 and €900 per month as of September 2025. These prices reflect prime locations within walking distance of business districts, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
Malta's rental market commands significantly higher prices, with one-bedroom apartments in central areas of Valletta or Sliema ranging from €1,200 to €1,500 per month. The limited supply of quality rental properties in Malta's compact urban centers drives these elevated costs.
The rental cost difference represents a savings of approximately 30-40% when choosing Cyprus over Malta. This substantial difference makes Cyprus particularly attractive for both long-term residents and property investors seeking rental income opportunities.
It's something we develop in our Cyprus property pack.
How much do groceries typically cost in Cyprus compared to Malta?
Grocery expenses are moderately lower in Cyprus compared to Malta for most essential items.
A single person's monthly grocery bill in Cyprus averages between €200 and €300, with specific items like milk costing €1.63 per liter, bread at €3.77 per kilogram, eggs at €4.63 for a dozen, and chicken breast at €5.03 for 500 grams.
Malta's grocery costs are slightly higher, with monthly expenses for a single person ranging from €250 to €350. Comparative prices include milk at €1.14 per liter (cheaper than Cyprus), bread at €1.15 for 500 grams, eggs at €3.14 for a dozen, and chicken fillet at €8.18 per kilogram.
While some individual items may be cheaper in Malta, the overall grocery basket tends to be more expensive due to the island's reliance on imports and limited local production capabilities.
The grocery cost advantage in Cyprus becomes more pronounced for families and households with higher consumption patterns.
What is the average price for a meal at a mid-range restaurant in both Cyprus and Malta?
Dining out costs are consistently lower in Cyprus across all restaurant categories.
| Meal Type | Cyprus Price | Malta Price |
|---|---|---|
| Single meal (mid-range restaurant) | €17-€20 | €25-€30 |
| Meal for two (mid-range restaurant) | €40-€60 | €50-€70 |
| Fast food combo meal | €6-€8 | €8-€10 |
| Coffee at café | €2-€3 | €2.50-€3.50 |
| Local beer at restaurant | €3-€4 | €4-€5 |
| Three-course dinner for two | €45-€70 | €60-€85 |
| Pizza at mid-range restaurant | €8-€12 | €12-€16 |
How much do utilities cost per month in Cyprus compared to Malta?
Utility costs are similar between both countries, with Cyprus being slightly higher for most services.
In Cyprus, monthly utilities for a typical one-bedroom apartment including electricity, heating, water, and garbage collection range from €130 to €180. The higher costs reflect Cyprus's energy infrastructure and seasonal air conditioning demands during hot summer months.
Malta's utility costs for comparable accommodation range from €100 to €140 per month. The island benefits from some government subsidies and more efficient distribution systems due to its compact size.
Both countries have implemented energy efficiency programs, but Cyprus residents typically face higher electricity bills during peak summer and winter months when heating and cooling systems are used extensively.
The utility cost difference is relatively modest compared to other expense categories, making it a minor factor in overall cost-of-living calculations.
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What is the transportation cost like in Cyprus versus Malta, including public transit and gasoline prices?
Transportation costs are comparable between Cyprus and Malta, but Malta offers superior public transport coverage.
Cyprus public transportation includes city bus tickets costing €1.00 to €2.40, with monthly passes ranging from €40 to €55. Gasoline prices average €1.33 to €1.34 per liter. However, public transport coverage is limited, making car ownership more necessary for daily mobility.
Malta's bus system offers tickets at €2.00 to €2.50 during summer months, with 24-hour passes at €4.50 and weekly passes at €21. Gasoline prices are identical to Cyprus at €1.33 to €1.34 per liter. Malta's public transport network provides much broader coverage and more frequent services than Cyprus.
While fuel costs are essentially identical, Malta's comprehensive public transport system can reduce overall transportation expenses for residents who don't require personal vehicles.
Cyprus residents often need to budget for car purchase and maintenance costs due to limited public transport options outside major urban areas.
The transportation cost advantage depends on individual mobility needs and location preferences within each country.
How does the cost of internet and mobile phone plans compare between Cyprus and Malta?
Internet and mobile costs are similar in both countries, with Cyprus offering slightly better value for mobile services.
Cyprus internet services cost €25 to €40 per month for 100-200 Mbps connections, with premium fiber reaching €35 to €40 monthly. Mobile plans range from €10 to €20 per month for packages including calls and over 10GB of data.
Malta's internet pricing ranges from €25 to €35 for standard connections, though premium fiber bundles can reach €50 monthly. Mobile postpaid plans typically cost €20 to €25 per month for standard services.
Both countries provide reliable high-speed internet infrastructure suitable for remote work and business needs. The cost differences are minimal and unlikely to significantly impact overall living expenses.
Cyprus mobile services offer better value for data-heavy users, while Malta's internet packages sometimes include additional services that may justify higher costs.
What are the typical healthcare costs in Cyprus compared to Malta, for both public and private services?
Healthcare costs are remarkably similar between Cyprus and Malta for both public and private services.
Cyprus provides free public healthcare for residents with social insurance coverage. Private GP appointments cost €35 to €50, while private health insurance premiums range from €40 to €85 per month for adults depending on coverage levels.
Malta offers free or low-cost public healthcare for residents through its national health system. Private GP consultations cost €30 to €50, with private health insurance premiums ranging from €40 to €70 monthly for adult coverage.
Both countries maintain high healthcare standards with well-trained medical professionals and modern facilities. The choice between public and private healthcare depends more on personal preferences for convenience and waiting times rather than cost considerations.
Emergency services and basic medical care are accessible and affordable in both destinations, making healthcare costs a neutral factor in the overall cost comparison.
How much do personal services cost in Cyprus compared to Malta?
Personal services are consistently cheaper in Cyprus across most categories.
1. **Haircuts and grooming**: Men's haircuts cost €10-€18 in Cyprus versus €12-€25 in Malta 2. **Fitness memberships**: Gym memberships range €40-€55 monthly in Cyprus compared to €45-€65 in Malta 3. **Beauty services**: Manicures, facials, and spa treatments are generally 15-20% cheaper in Cyprus 4. **Domestic services**: House cleaning and maintenance services cost less in Cyprus due to lower labor costs 5. **Professional services**: Legal, accounting, and consulting fees are typically lower in Cyprus
We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Cyprus versus those in neighboring countries. It provides a clear view of how this country positions itself as a real estate investment destination, which might interest you if you're planning to invest there.
What is the average cost of a taxi ride or public transport ticket in Cyprus versus Malta?
Public transport offers better value in Malta, while taxi costs are similar between both countries.
Cyprus taxi services charge a €5 base fare plus €1 per kilometer for city rides. City bus tickets cost €1 to €2.40, with 24-hour passes available for €6. The limited public transport network makes taxis more necessary for many journeys.
Malta's taxi fares range from €7 to €10 for short city rides, while bus tickets cost €2 to €2.50 with 24-hour passes at €4.50. Malta's extensive bus network covers most destinations efficiently.
Malta's public transport system provides better value for regular commuting and tourist activities due to broader coverage and frequency. Cyprus taxi costs can accumulate quickly due to limited public transport alternatives.
For budget-conscious residents, Malta's public transport infrastructure offers more cost-effective mobility options for daily transportation needs.
How much are school fees and childcare costs in Cyprus compared to Malta?
School and childcare costs are comparable between both countries, with slight variations in specific categories.
Cyprus offers free public education for residents, while private international schools charge €3,000 to €8,000 annually. Daycare services cost €250 to €400 per month depending on location and facility quality.
Malta provides free public schooling for residents, with international schools charging €4,000 to €10,000 yearly. Daycare costs range from €300 to €600 monthly, reflecting higher overall living costs in Malta.
Both countries maintain good educational standards in public schools, making private education a choice rather than necessity for most families. The cost differences in childcare reflect broader living cost variations between the countries.
It's something we develop in our Cyprus property pack.
How does the price of local entertainment and activities compare between Cyprus and Malta?
Entertainment costs are nearly identical between Cyprus and Malta across most categories.
Cyprus entertainment options include cinema tickets at €8 to €10, museum entry fees of €4 to €8, and various cultural activities at competitive prices. The island offers numerous free outdoor activities including beaches and hiking trails.
Malta's entertainment costs feature cinema tickets at €8 to €12 and museum entries from €5 to €10. The compact island provides easy access to historical sites, beaches, and cultural events.
Both destinations offer rich cultural experiences, outdoor activities, and nightlife options at similar price points. The entertainment cost difference is minimal and shouldn't influence location decisions.
Seasonal festivals, concerts, and special events in both countries provide additional entertainment value at reasonable costs throughout the year.
What is the overall cost of living in Cyprus compared to Malta for an individual or family?
Cyprus provides a significant overall cost advantage for both individuals and families across all expense categories.
| Household Type | Cyprus Monthly Cost | Malta Monthly Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Single person (city center) | €1,100-€1,400 | €1,400-€1,800 |
| Single person (suburbs) | €900-€1,200 | €1,200-€1,500 |
| Couple (city center) | €1,800-€2,300 | €2,200-€2,800 |
| Family of 4 (city center) | €2,600-€3,300 | €3,000-€4,200 |
| Family of 4 (suburbs) | €2,200-€2,800 | €2,600-€3,500 |
| Retiree couple | €1,500-€2,000 | €1,800-€2,400 |
| Student | €600-€900 | €800-€1,200 |
Conclusion
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. We do not assume any liability for actions taken based on the information provided.
Cyprus consistently offers lower living costs across most categories compared to Malta, making it an attractive destination for property investors and residents.
The most significant savings are found in housing costs, dining, and personal services, while utilities, healthcare, and entertainment remain comparable between both Mediterranean destinations.
It's something we develop in our Cyprus property pack.