Studio Apartment
The studio apartment is compact living made efficient. One open-plan room combines bedroom, living area, and kitchen – only the bathroom is separate. Studios offer Malta's most affordable property entry point, popular with students, young professionals, and investors alike.
Key Characteristics
Open-Plan Living
Single room combining bedroom, living area, and kitchen into one efficient space. Only the bathroom is separate.
Affordable Entry
The most affordable property type in Malta, making homeownership or investment accessible at lower price points.
Urban Locations
Concentrated in high-density areas like Sliema, St. Julian's, and Gżira where demand for compact living is highest.
Investment Potential
Strong rental demand from students, young professionals, and short-term visitors makes studios attractive investments.
Types of Studios
Standard Studio
Classic single-room layout with combined living/sleeping area and kitchenette. Bathroom is the only separate room. Typically 25-40 sqm.
Studio with Sleeping Area
Slightly larger studio with a defined sleeping nook or alcove, providing some separation between bedroom and living space.
Loft-Style Studio
High-ceiling studio with elevated sleeping platform, maximising floor space. Common in converted buildings.
Studio with Terrace
Studio apartment with outdoor terrace or large balcony, extending the limited indoor space with outdoor living area.
Serviced Studio
Furnished studio in managed buildings, often with services like cleaning and utilities included. Popular for short-term rentals.
Studio Features
Compact Layout
Efficient use of space with combined living, sleeping, and cooking areas – everything within reach.
Separate Bathroom
The only private room in a studio. May include shower or bathtub depending on size and age of property.
Kitchenette
Compact cooking area, often along one wall. May include basic appliances – sink, hob, small fridge.
Built-in Storage
Space-saving storage solutions often built in – wardrobes, shelving, and multi-functional furniture.
Balcony (often)
Many studios include a small balcony, providing outdoor space and natural light despite compact interiors.
Low Maintenance
Smaller space means less to clean, heat, cool, and maintain – reduced utility bills and upkeep time.
Furnished Options
Studios are often sold or rented furnished, ready for immediate occupation without additional investment.
Building Amenities
In newer buildings, studios may have access to shared facilities like rooftop, pool, or gym.
Studio vs One-Bedroom Apartment
| Feature | Studio | One-Bedroom |
|---|---|---|
| Layout | Open-plan (1 room + bathroom) | Separate bedroom + living room |
| Typical Size | 25-45 sqm | 45-70 sqm |
| Privacy | Limited (shared space) | Better (separate bedroom) |
| Price | Lower | Higher |
| Best For | Singles, students, investors | Singles, couples, professionals |
| Hosting Guests | Difficult | Possible (sofa bed in living room) |
Who Studios Are Ideal For
Students
Affordable accommodation near university and language school areas in Sliema, Msida, and St. Julian's.
Young Professionals
First property or rental for single working professionals who prioritise location over space.
Investors
Lower entry price and strong rental yields make studios attractive buy-to-let investments.
Short-Term Visitors
Holiday lets and corporate stays – studios offer hotel alternatives in central locations.
Downsizers
Those simplifying their living situation who don't need multiple rooms or large spaces.
Remote Workers
Digital nomads and location-independent workers who need a base in Malta.
Where to Find Studios
Sliema
Malta's most popular area for studios – central, walkable, and close to seafront and amenities.
St. Julian's
Entertainment hub with high demand for studios from young professionals and hospitality workers.
Gżira
More affordable than neighbouring Sliema, with good selection of studio apartments.
Msida
Near University of Malta, making it popular for student studio accommodation.
Valletta
Capital city studios in converted historic buildings, often with character features.
Buġibba/Qawra
Northern tourist areas with studios popular for holiday rentals and seasonal lets.
Understanding Studio Apartments in Malta
The studio apartment is Malta's most compact and affordable property type. In a market where space comes at a premium, studios offer an accessible entry point for first-time buyers, a practical solution for single occupants, and an attractive investment opportunity with strong rental returns.
The Open-Plan Reality
Living, sleeping, and cooking in one room requires adjustment if you're used to separate spaces. The bed is part of your living room; the kitchen is visible from your bed. This isn't for everyone, but for those who embrace it, studios offer efficient, low-maintenance living where everything is within arm's reach.
Location Over Size
Studio residents typically prioritise location over space. The trade-off of a smaller living area is offset by being in the heart of Sliema, steps from St. Julian's nightlife, or walking distance to university. For many, a well-located studio beats a larger apartment in a less convenient area.
Investment Appeal
Studios are among Malta's most attractive investment properties. Lower purchase prices mean accessible market entry, while consistent demand from students, young professionals, and tourists ensures reliable rental income. Yields can be particularly strong relative to purchase price, especially for well-located properties.
Making Small Work
Successful studio living requires smart space management. Multi-functional furniture (sofa beds, fold-down desks), vertical storage, and minimalist habits help maximise limited square metres. Many studios come furnished with space-optimised solutions already in place.
Limitations to Consider
Studios have clear limitations. Hosting guests is challenging without a spare room or even a separate living area. Couples may find the lack of private space difficult. Working from home means working from your bedroom. Be realistic about whether studio living suits your lifestyle before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a studio apartment?
A compact single-room living space where bedroom, living area, and kitchen share one open-plan room. Only the bathroom is separate. Typically 25-45 sqm.
Studio vs one-bedroom?
Studios have one open room; one-bedrooms have a separate enclosed bedroom. One-bedrooms are larger and offer more privacy but cost more.
How big are studios in Malta?
Typically 25-45 square metres. Smaller studios (25-30 sqm) are basic; larger ones (40-45 sqm) may have defined zones or terraces.
Good for investment?
Yes, studios can offer strong returns. Lower prices mean accessible entry, while rental demand from students and professionals provides reliable yields.
Where are studios located?
High-density urban areas: Sliema, St. Julian's, Gżira, Msida, Valletta. Less common in suburban or rural areas.
Who should buy a studio?
Singles, students, young professionals, investors, downsizers, and remote workers who prioritise location and affordability over space.
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