Is Bilbao or Sliema cheaper to live in?

Bilbao is 29% cheaper than Sliema. The average monthly cost in Bilbao is $1,664, while Sliema costs $2,346 per month.

Which city is better for digital nomads: Bilbao or Sliema?

For digital nomads, Bilbao offers faster internet at 170 Mbps. Bilbao is more budget-friendly with lower living costs. Both cities have their strengths - Bilbao has a NomadIQ score of 6.4/10 while Sliema scores 6.7/10.

What is the rent difference between Bilbao and Sliema?

A 1-bedroom apartment costs $1,181/month in Bilbao and $1,727/month in Sliema. Bilbao has 32% lower rent.

Is Bilbao or Sliema safer?

Sliema has a higher safety score of 6.7/10. Bilbao scores 5.1/10 for safety while Sliema scores 6.7/10.

Should I move to Bilbao or Sliema as an expat?

The choice depends on your priorities. Choose Bilbao if budget is important ($1,664/month). Choose Sliema for better safety. Bilbao is better for remote work with 170 Mbps internet.

Back to Comparison Tool

Bilbao vs Sliema

Cost of Living, Safety & Expat Guide (2026)

Bilbao

Spain

$1,664/mo6.4/10

Sliema

Malta

$2,346/mo6.7/10

Bilbao

Spain

$1,664/moNomadIQ 6.4/10

Sliema

Malta

$2,346/moNomadIQ 6.7/10

Detailed Comparison

Factor

Bilbao

Sliema

Winner

Total Monthly Cost

$1,664

$2,346

Bilbao

Rent (1BR)

$1,181

$1,727

Bilbao

Groceries

$360

$390

Bilbao

Transport

$38

$85

Bilbao

Healthcare

$55

$100

Bilbao

Safety Score

5.1/10

6.7/10

Sliema

Internet Speed

170 Mbps

130 Mbps

Bilbao

NomadIQ Score

6.4/10

6.7/10

Sliema

Overall Winner: Bilbao

Based on our comparison, Bilbao wins 6 out of 8 categories.Sliema wins 2 categories.

Which city is better for digital nomads?

For digital nomads choosing between Bilbao and Sliema, the answer depends on your priorities. Here's our analysis:

Best for Budget

Bilbao

$1,664/mo

Best Internet

Bilbao

170 Mbps

Best NomadIQ Score

Sliema

6.7/10

Our Recommendation: Choose Bilbao if budget is your top priority, or Bilbao if you need the fastest internet for remote work.

Digital Nomad Analysis: Bilbao vs Sliema

When comparing Bilbao and Sliema for digital nomads, several factors come into play.

Cost of Living: Bilbao offers a more affordable lifestyle at $1,664/month compared to Sliema's $2,346/month.

Internet & Remote Work: Bilbao leads with 170 Mbps average internet speed, ideal for video calls and large file transfers. Sliema offers 130 Mbps.

Safety: With a safety score of 6.7/10, Sliema offers better security than Bilbao (5.1/10).

Overall: Sliema's NomadIQ score of 6.7/10 gives it an edge for remote workers.

Cost of Living Comparison

Bilbao is 29% cheaper than Sliema.

• Bilbao rent: $1,181/mo
• Sliema rent: $1,727/mo
• Difference: $546/mo

Safety Comparison

Sliema has a higher safety score (6.7/10) compared to Bilbao (5.1/10).

5.1/10

Bilbao

6.7/10

Sliema

Digital Nomad Friendliness

For remote workers, internet speed is crucial. Bilbao offers faster internet at 170 Mbps vs 130 Mbps.

170 Mbps

Bilbao

130 Mbps

Sliema

Which City Is Better for Expats?

Based on our analysis, Bilbao edges out as the better choice for expats, winning 6 of 8 comparison factors.

Bilbao: Best for budget-conscious expats

Sliema: Best for those prioritizing amenities

Bilbao vs Sliema

Bilbao

Sliema

Bilbao

Sliema

Detailed Comparison

Overall Winner: Bilbao

Which city is better for digital nomads?

Digital Nomad Analysis: Bilbao vs Sliema

Cost of Living Comparison

Safety Comparison

Digital Nomad Friendliness

Which City Is Better for Expats?

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Frequently Asked Questions: Bilbao vs Sliema