Belgium vs Malta
Malta costs roughly 18% less than Belgium, though Belgium scores higher on healthcare, making it one of the more financially compelling destinations for Belgium expats. Use our tool below to personalize the estimate based on your income and lifestyle.
Malta is approximately 18% less expensive than Belgium based on cost of living including rent. This makes Malta a more budget-friendly option for expats considering a move.
Malta has a FIRE Score of 46/100, indicating its suitability for financial independence and early retirement. The country's safety index is 57, suggesting moderate safety levels.
Recommended profile: Malta is best suited for digital nomads who prioritize experience over savings.
About Belgium
Offers a clear pathway to citizenship, though no specific retiree visa is available. Those seeking long-term stays may explore other visa categories. Rent in Brussels is under $1,000/month, roughly 70% less than a typical US city center. However, income tax can hit 50% plus communal surcharges, making it a high-tax destination for remote workers.
$912/mo
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About Malta
Best for digital nomads: Malta offers a Nomad Residence Permit with a clear USD 3,997/mo income requirement, making it accessible for remote workers. Safety is high (US Travel Advisory Level 1) and English proficiency is high, easing daily life. However, the progressive income tax (0% to 35%) can be a hidden cost for higher earners, and the Nomad Residence Permit can lead to permanent residency.
$921/mo
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Answer 11 questions and get a personalized match in under 2 minutes.
Living Costs (excl. rent)
Rent Per Month
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Country Details →Battle of Lifestyles
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| Metric | Belgium | Malta |
|---|---|---|
| Travel Advisory | Level 2: Increased Caution | Level 1: Normal Precautions |
| Quality of Life Index | 169.3 +36.6 | 132.7 |
| Healthcare Index | 75.9 +23.4 | 52.5 |
| Safety Index | 50.6 | 57 +6.4 |
| Cost of Living Index | 56.5 | 48 +8.5 |
| Living Costs (Single, excl. rent) | $1,096.6 | $892 +204.6 |
| Living Costs (Family, excl. rent) | $3,927.3 | $3,307 +620.3 |
| 1BR Apartment (Center) | $991.29 +195.93 | $1,187.22 |
| 1BR Apartment (Outside) | $892.92 +83.24 | $976.16 |
| 3BR Apartment (Center) | $1,574.68 +428.55 | $2,003.23 |
| 3BR Apartment (Outside) | $1,302.9 +277.49 | $1,580.39 |
| Avg Internet Speed | 138.09 Mbps | 298.65 Mbps +160.6 |
Expat taxes filed by specialists
Greenback Expat Tax handles US taxes for Americans living in Malta. File confidently from abroad.
File your taxes →International health insurance from $45/mo
Get covered before you move to Malta. Genki Traveler offers insurance designed for nomads and expats.
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Income thresholds, fees, processing time and residency paths for Belgium and Malta, side by side.
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