Retiring to Malta can be a great decision if you’re nearing retirement. The cost of living in Malta is low, and rent is two-fourths cheaper than in the UK. You’ll love the island’s mix of Sicilian and English influences. The health care system is second to none. And the food is delicious! Listed below are 3 reasons to retire in Malta. Read on to find out more!
Rent is 24% cheaper than in the UK
A number of factors make Malta a good place to rent a property. The country’s sunny Mediterranean climate, no language barrier, and short flight times to the UK make it an excellent place to rent a property. Property prices in Malta are moderate, and the country is also a safe place to live with low crime rates. Renting property in Malta is an excellent option for those seeking a peaceful, low-key life.
Property prices in Malta are generally cheaper than elsewhere in Europe. A one-bedroom apartment in Sliema costs EUR2, 208, while the same apartment in the UK would cost EUR2, 649. The price of utilities is also lower latest apartments for sale in Malta, ranging from EUR150 for an 85m2 apartment in the north to EUR1, 500 in the center of the island. It is also possible to buy a property without any property tax.
The Health system is excellent
The Maltese healthcare system is very good. There are plenty of pharmacies and clinics in the country, and a good network of private hospitals. The public hospitals offer basic healthcare, as well as nursing care, surgery, and physiotherapy. Malta also has two private hospitals on the main island. Private medical facilities in Malta offer a variety of services ranging from routine blood tests to complex surgeries. Malta also has state-of-the-art medical equipment, including MRI machines and CT scanners.
The national health system is free for residents, but the private sector provides better service. Private medical insurance is required for foreign residents. BUPA International and other similar companies offer good medical insurance plans, and those with foreign insurance should consider these plans to ensure they receive the best care. Malta’s main hospital, Mater Dei, opened in 2007 and is one of the largest medical buildings in Europe. Although the health system is excellent in Malta, costs can be expensive, so foreigners should consider a private medical insurance plan to cover their medical expenses.
Food is a melting pot of Sicilian and English influences
Food in Malta is typically the Mediterranean, with a combination of Sicilian and English influences. You’ll find many dishes made with locally grown vegetables and herbs. You can also find meat, fish, and game dishes, and the island has many traits in common with neighboring countries. Whether you enjoy fine pasta or salty snacks, you’re sure to find something you’ll love.
Malta’s national language is Maltese, a Semitic language closely related to North African Arabic. The language draws a mixture of Italian and English influences and is difficult to learn. The Maltese population speaks both Italian and English. In general, people speak English more than Maltese, which makes it easier to adjust to the culture. In fact, most Maltese people prefer to use English when communicating with locals, so there’s less of a culture shock.
If you’re retired, you’ll love the island’s 450th-anniversary celebration of the Knights Hospitaller, an order of knights recruited from Greek and Spanish islands. The Knights Hospitaller successfully resisted the Ottoman Empire’s attempt to take control of the island for three months. Spain eventually lifted the siege, and the island remained under the rule of the Knights Hospitaller.
The cost of living is low
While the cost of living in Malta is not the cheapest in Europe, it is still remarkably low, especially compared to other European nations. Compared to Australia, Malta’s apartments cost approximately 15% less per month, and Maltese restaurants are usually at least 50% cheaper. One of the biggest savings when retiring in Malta is childcare. Maltese residents spend more on bottled water, but the water in Malta is safe to drink. As long as you take the time to filter the water, the cost of living in Malta is low compared to other European countries.
Conclusion
Since Malta is a small island, you may want to consider renting an apartment. Apartment rent in Malta varies widely, so consider how much you’re willing to spend. If you don’t need a large amount of space, try to live outside of Valletta’s trendy areas. The cost of operating a car in Malta can be high, so consider living near public transportation instead. The cost of healthcare and pharmaceuticals in Malta is high, but you can carry over your healthcare coverage from your home country if you want to.
