What is a Good Salary in Maldives? (2026 Guide)
If you’re planning a move to the Maldives or negotiating a contract in the capital, one question looms large: What is a good salary in Maldives?
While the Maldives is often seen through the lens of luxury resorts, the reality for residents and expats living in Malé or on local islands is quite different. In 2026, the cost of living—particularly housing—plays a massive role in determining what "good" actually looks like.
The Short Answer: Salary Benchmarks for 2026
A "good" salary is subjective, but based on current economic data and living costs in Malé (the most expensive area), here are the general benchmarks for a comfortable lifestyle:
| Lifestyle Tier | Monthly Salary (MVR) | Monthly Salary (USD) | What it Covers |
| Survival/Basic | MVR 10,000 – 15,000 | $650 – $975 | Shared room, local meals, basic utilities. |
| Average/Comfortable | MVR 20,000 – 30,000 | $1,300 – $1,950 | Small private apartment, dining out, savings. |
| High/Expat Lead | MVR 45,000+ | $2,900+ | Luxury apartment, frequent travel, high savings. |
Understanding the Cost of Living
The primary factor that dictates whether your salary is "good" is housing. Rent in Malé city is notoriously high, often consuming 40% to 60% of a mid-range income.
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Rent: A one-bedroom apartment in the city center typically costs between MVR 12,000 and MVR 15,000.
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Utilities: Electricity and water for a small flat average around MVR 1,500 – MVR 2,500.
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Internet: High-speed internet is relatively expensive, costing roughly MVR 1,000 for a decent package.
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Food: Local groceries are affordable, but imported goods can spike your monthly bill to MVR 5,000+ per person.
Pro Tip: If your employer provides free accommodation (common in the tourism and healthcare sectors), a salary of MVR 15,000 becomes significantly more "comfortable" than a salary of MVR 25,000 without housing.
Salaries by Industry in 2026
Your earning potential varies greatly depending on your field. Here is a look at average monthly earnings for common roles in the Maldives:
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Tourism & Hospitality: Base salaries often range from MVR 8,000 – 12,000, but resort workers frequently receive a Service Charge, which can add an extra $500 to $1,500 per month during peak season.
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Healthcare: Doctors and specialized nurses can earn between MVR 30,000 and MVR 60,000, often with added housing allowances.
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Education: Teachers in the public sector typically earn between MVR 12,000 and MVR 20,000 depending on their qualifications and rank.
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Tech & Finance: Software developers and senior accountants in Malé generally see offers between MVR 18,000 and MVR 35,000.
Minimum Wage and Legal Baselines
As of 2026, the Maldives operates on a tiered minimum wage system. While these are the legal minimums, they are generally considered "survival" wages rather than "good" salaries for those living in the capital:
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Small Businesses: MVR 4,500
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Medium Businesses & Government: MVR 7,000
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Large Businesses & Tourism Sector: MVR 8,000
Conclusion: Is MVR 20,000 Enough?
For a single person, MVR 20,000 is a decent entry-to-mid-level salary in the Maldives. It allows you to rent a modest studio or share a flat, eat well, and enjoy the local island life. However, for a family or someone looking to save aggressively while living in Malé, you should aim for MVR 35,000 or higher.
If you are an expat, always negotiate for a housing allowance or "living-out" allowance, as this is the single biggest expense you will face.
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