A recent survey by the National Statistics Office (NSO) reveals that 88,462 individuals in Malta lived below the at-risk-of-poverty line of €11,364 in 2023, translating to a 16.6% at-risk-of-poverty (ARP) rate, a slight decrease from the previous year.

The European Statistics on Income and Living Conditions (EU-SILC) survey, which annually assesses private households in Malta and Gozo, provided this data.

The ARP rate for children under 18 increased by 2.7 percentage points to 22%, while it slightly decreased to 12.1 % for adults aged 18-64 and to 29% for seniors aged 65 and over. The average gross household income for 2022 was estimated at €46,976, with the average disposable income at €37,275.

In 2023, the severe material and social deprivation (SMSD) rate among households was 4.1%, a decrease from the previous year’s 4.9%. Major deprivation factors included the inability to afford a week’s annual holiday (30%) and unexpected financial expenses (15.9%).

The AROPE rate, encompassing those at risk of poverty, severely deprived, or in low work intensity households, dropped to 19.8%.

Despite improvements, significant challenges remain, especially for households struggling with basic needs such as meals and unexpected expenses.

Respondents at risk of poverty or social exclusion reported lower satisfaction with life, financial situation, job, and personal relationships compared to those not at risk. However, slight increases in satisfaction scores were noted from 2022 to 2023.

Employment income constituted 85.1% of total gross household income, with social benefits at 12.5%.

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Source: NSO