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Malta’s at-risk-of-poverty rate remained unchanged in 2025, standing at 16.9%, according to the latest EU-SILC survey published by the National Statistics Office. The figure corresponds to 95,157 persons living in households with a national equivalised disposable income below the at-risk-of-poverty line, set at €13,220.

The survey, which collects comparable data on income, living conditions, employment, wellbeing and material deprivation, shows that the poverty threshold increased by 11.8% compared with the previous year. Despite this rise, the overall share of people considered at risk of poverty remained stable.

The data also highlights important differences across age groups. Persons aged 65 and over recorded the highest at-risk-of-poverty rate, at 28.9%, followed by children and young people under 18, with a rate of 20.8%. Among persons aged between 18 and 64, the rate stood at 12.9%.

Household composition remained a key factor. Single-person households with one or more dependent children were the most exposed to poverty risk, with a rate of 46.1%. One-person households aged 65 and over also recorded a high rate, at 35.9%.

The report also shows that 109,292 persons, or 19.4% of the population, were at risk of poverty or social exclusion in 2025. Among Maltese citizens living in private households, the rate was lower, at 17.2%.

Material and social deprivation indicators showed a slight improvement. The Material and Social Deprivation rate fell to 8.7%, while the Severe Material and Social Deprivation rate decreased to 4.1%. However, 27.6% of the surveyed population said their household could not afford a one-week annual holiday away from home, while 18.7% said they would not be able to face an unexpected financial expense of around €950.

At district level, the Southern Harbour district registered the highest at-risk-of-poverty or social exclusion rate, at 26.2%, while the South Eastern district recorded the lowest rate, at 15.2%.

The findings confirm that, while Malta’s overall poverty risk remained stable in 2025, older persons, single-parent households and people living in households with low work intensity remain among the most vulnerable groups.

ARTICLE WRITTEN BY NSO
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