The short answer
Most Maltese breeders in the US charge between $1,650 and $3,150 for a puppy. The typical price, $2,000, makes the Maltese the 16th cheapest of the 53 breeds we checked. The most common price band is $2,000 to $2,499, where 2 of the 8 breeders are; one in ten asks less than $1,100 and one in ten more than $3,500. Of the 121 Maltese breeders we list, 8 publish a price on their own website; most of the rest ask families to call or apply first.
From the puppy prices published by 8 Maltese breeders in 6 states on their own websites, November 2026. Deposits, shipping, stud fees and breeding rights are left out, and only breeders of a single breed count.
How the prices spread
- Under $1,0001
- $1,000 to $1,4991
- $1,500 to $1,9991
- $2,000 to $2,4992
- $2,500 to $2,9990
- $3,000 to $3,4991
- $3,500 to $3,9992
Number of breeders in each price band.
Where these prices come from
North Carolina 2 breedersGeorgia 2 breedersPennsylvania 1 breederMississippi 1 breederMichigan 1 breederLouisiana 1 breederWhat changes the price
The parents. Health-tested and titled parents usually mean a higher price.
Color, coat and size. Maltese breeders also advertise teacup maltese; these are often priced differently from the standard Maltese.
Registration. Pet puppies usually come with limited registration; breeding rights cost more.
Fake sellers advertise Maltese puppies well under $1,100. How to spot a puppy scam
Questions
How much is a Maltese puppy?
Most Maltese breeders in the US charge between $1,650 and $3,150 for a puppy. The typical price is $2,000, the 16th cheapest of the 53 breeds we checked, based on the prices 8 breeders in 6 states publish on their own websites (November 2026).
Is a Maltese more expensive than similar breeds?
A Maltese typically costs $2,000. Corgi ($2,000), Mini Schnauzer ($2,000) and Jack Russell ($2,000) cost about the same. Across all breeds, the typical puppy from a breeder costs $2,500.
Is a cheap Maltese puppy a scam?
Not always, but a Maltese offered well below $1,100 is a warning sign, especially if the seller cannot meet in person or on a live video call, or wants payment by wire, gift card, Zelle or crypto before you see the puppy.