Portugal vs Malta
Portugal costs roughly 17% less than Malta. Use our tool below to personalize the estimate based on your income and lifestyle.
Portugal is approximately 17% less expensive than Malta based on cost of living including rent. This makes Portugal a more budget-friendly option for expats considering a move.
Portugal has a FIRE Score of 59/100, indicating its suitability for financial independence and early retirement. The country's safety index is 67.9, which is relatively safe.
Recommended profile: Portugal is well-suited for retirees seeking a balanced lifestyle.
About Portugal
A one-bedroom in central Lisbon runs about $1,040/month, roughly a third of comparable Boston or DC rents. Combined with $776 in monthly living costs, a couple can live well under $2,500/month total, and the D7 visa only requires 920 EUR income to qualify. The catch: Portuguese progressive tax hits 48%, so this works best for retirees on fixed foreign income, not high earners staying tax resident.
$1,185/mo
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About Malta
Best for digital nomads: Malta offers a Nomad Residence Permit with a clear EUR 2700/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 (0-35%) can be a hidden cost for higher earners, and the Nomad Residence Permit does not lead to permanent residency.
$921/mo
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Living Costs (excl. rent)
Rent Per Month
Attractiveness Scores
Battle of Lifestyles
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| Metric | Portugal | Malta |
|---|---|---|
| Travel Advisory | Level 1 — Normal Precautions | Level 1 — Normal Precautions |
| Quality of Life Index | 167.8 +35.1 | 132.7 |
| Healthcare Index | 72.2 +19.7 | 52.5 |
| Safety Index | 67.9 +10.9 | 57 |
| Cost of Living Index | 41.2 +6.8 | 48 |
| Living Costs (Single, excl. rent) | $775.7 +116.3 | $892 |
| Living Costs (Family, excl. rent) | $2,805.2 +501.8 | $3,307 |
| 1BR Apartment (Center) | $1,039.76 +147.46 | $1,187.22 |
| 1BR Apartment (Outside) | $823.97 +152.19 | $976.16 |
| 3BR Apartment (Center) | $1,755 +248.23 | $2,003.23 |
| 3BR Apartment (Outside) | $1,328.84 +251.55 | $1,580.39 |
| Avg Internet Speed | 351.94 Mbps +53.3 | 298.65 Mbps |
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