Mgarr vs Zejtun
Side-by-side comparison of property prices, lifestyle, and practical info to help you choose the right area.
Summary
Mgarr is better for buyers seeking rural farmhouse living near beaches, while Zejtun suits families wanting affordable urban property with strong transport links. Mgarr scores 9/10 for beaches and 8/10 for safety, but just 3/10 for transport — a car is essential, and the commute to Valletta takes over 25 minutes. Zejtun rates 6/10 for transport with three bus routes serving the capital in 25–30 minutes, and sits just 10 minutes from Malta International Airport by car versus Mgarr's 25-minute drive.
Mgarr's population of 4,100 supports a genuinely agricultural community with working farms, vineyards, and annual events like the Strawberry Festival. Property here offers the most affordable farmhouses with land in Malta. However, amenities are limited and nightlife scores just 2/10. Zejtun's larger population of 11,800 provides comprehensive local amenities including schools, and property ranks among the cheapest in urban Malta. Its historic core features notable baroque architecture and strong traditional festas.
Mgarr suits nature lovers and families wanting clean air, dark skies, and proximity to beaches like Golden Bay and Ghajn Tuffieha. Zejtun suits families prioritising road connectivity, everyday convenience, and authentic residential atmosphere without tourist crowds.
Living in Mgarr
Mgarr is a rural village in northwest Malta that serves as the island's agricultural heartland. Surrounded by farmland, vineyards, and olive groves, Mgarr produces more of Malta's home-grown food than anywhere else — strawberries, tomatoes, potatoes, and the grapes that go into Malta's growing wine industry. The annual Strawberry Festival draws thousands of visitors each spring. The village centre is a traditional Maltese square dominated by an enormous parish church that's dramatically oversized for the population — locals reportedly wanted to build the largest church in Malta but ran out of funds before completing the dome. The unfinished dome is a source of village pride rather than embarrassment. The surrounding countryside is scattered with cart ruts, megalithic sites, and the Bingemma valley. Property in Mgarr offers rural Malta at its most affordable. Farmhouses with land are still available, and the village has a genuine agricultural character that's disappeared from most of the island. The trade-off is distance — Mgarr is a 25-minute drive from Valletta with limited public transport.
Highlights
- Annual Strawberry Festival — Malta's biggest food event
- Working farms, vineyards, and olive groves
- Farmhouse properties with land at affordable prices
- Cart ruts and megalithic sites in the countryside
- Genuinely rural Malta
Living in Zejtun
Zejtun is a substantial southern town that takes its name from the Maltese word for olive oil — zejt — a reminder that this area was once covered in olive groves supplying oil across the Mediterranean. The town is one of Malta's largest and has a distinctly southern identity, with strong festa traditions, a sprawling residential area, and a historic core that's among the best-preserved in the south. The old centre clusters around the impressive parish church of St. Catherine, a baroque building with one of the finest church facades in Malta. The surrounding streets contain substantial townhouses with enclosed courtyards, some dating back to the Knights' period. The village of Birzebbuga, Hal Far industrial estate, and the Freeport all sit within Zejtun's broader boundaries. Property in Zejtun is very affordable — among the lowest prices in urbanised Malta. The town has all essential amenities and good road connections, but public transport to Valletta takes 25–30 minutes and the tourist appeal is minimal. It's a practical choice for local buyers and budget-conscious investors.
Highlights
- Named after centuries of olive oil production
- One of Malta's finest baroque church facades
- Among the most affordable property in urban Malta
- Strong festa and community traditions
- Good road connections to the south and harbour area
Lifestyle Comparison
Which Area Is Right For You?
Choose Mgarr
Mgarr comes out ahead in beaches .
Choose Zejtun
Zejtun comes out ahead in family, nightlife, transport .
Frequently Asked Questions
Available Properties
Mgarr (2 listings)
New High end finishings 2 Bedroom 2 Bathroom penthouse for Rent. Within walking distance of all amenities and Għnejna Beach. Beautiful apartment featuring elegant parquet floors.
