Cost of Living in Morocco in 2025: A Complete Guide for Expats and Investors
Understanding the Cost of Living in Morocco
The cost of living in Morocco in 2025 remains attractive for many expats and investors. With a combination of moderate prices, accessible services, and a warm culture, the country continues to appeal to those seeking to settle long-term or invest wisely. Whether you're looking to live full-time or spend part of the year, life in Morocco offers a high quality of living at a reasonable budget.
The local currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD), with an exchange rate in 2025 of approximately €1 = 10.9 MAD. This favorable conversion rate gives Europeans strong purchasing power, particularly for daily expenses.
Comparing the Cost of Living in Morocco and Europe
Compared to Western European countries, the cost of living in Morocco is significantly lower. On average:
- Rent is 50 to 70% cheaper than in France or Spain.
- Grocery costs are 30 to 50% lower.
- Services such as housekeeping, gardening, and security are affordable—starting around €150/month.
- Restaurant meals are far more accessible: a full meal at a mid-range restaurant costs between €3 and €6.
Example: A couple living in Marrakech can live comfortably on €1,200 per month, compared to €3,000 in Paris for a similar lifestyle.
These price differences allow retirees, digital nomads, and entrepreneurs to maintain a high standard of living in Morocco while spending far less than in Europe. It’s also a key reason many invest in rental properties with high returns.
Main Expenses: Housing, Food, Transport
The three main components of the cost of life in Morocco are:
1. Housing
- One-bedroom apartment in a major city: 4,000–7,000 MAD/month (€370–€650)
- House with garden in a medium-sized city: from 6,000 MAD (€550)
- Renovated riad in Marrakech: 10,000 to 20,000 MAD depending on location
Most rentals are unfurnished, but furnished options are available with a slight markup—ideal for expats.
2. Food
- Local market: 10 kg of fresh produce for under €10
- 1 kg of chicken: €3 to €4
- Loaf of bread: €0.12
- Dinner at a local restaurant: €4 to €8
Shopping at local markets helps save money and ensures fresher ingredients. Supermarkets like Marjane or Carrefour offer imported goods but are noticeably pricier.
3. Transport
- Urban taxi ride: €2 to €5
- Fuel: €1 per liter
- Public transport: €0.40 per ticket
- Car rental: around €25/day
In major cities such as Casablanca and Rabat, the tramway is a reliable and budget-friendly option. Many expats also use scooters or hire part-time drivers.
Cost Differences Across Moroccan Cities
The cost of living in Morocco varies widely between cities:
- Casablanca: Economic hub with higher rent and closer-to-European prices.
- Rabat: Administrative capital, quieter but expat neighborhoods are costly.
- Marrakech: Popular among foreigners, offering both luxury and affordable local living.
- Agadir: Coastal city with a good price-to-comfort ratio and pleasant year-round weather.
- Taroudant, Essaouira, Ouarzazate: Great options for living on less than €600/month.
Tip: For a comfortable lifestyle with balanced costs, consider mid-sized cities near tourist areas.
Living Standards in Morocco Today
Evolution of Morocco’s Standard of Living
In 2025, the standard of living in Morocco continues to improve steadily. The minimum wage (SMIG) is now around 3,000 MAD (~€275). Major investments in infrastructure, healthcare, and education have raised the general living conditions.
The rise of remote work and digital services has also contributed to a growing, stable middle class, especially in large urban areas.
Life Expectancy and Quality of Life in Morocco
The life expectancy in Morocco reached 75 years in 2025, thanks to:
- Better access to healthcare (private hospitals in Casablanca, Marrakech, Tangier)
- Introduction of universal health insurance (AMO)
- Favorable climate for well-being (plenty of sun, low humidity)
That said, the living standards in Morocco still show disparities between urban and rural areas.
Life in Morocco for Expats
Expats living in Morocco benefit from:
- Low cost of living
- Pleasant environment (weather, food, nature)
- Access to quality private healthcare
- A multicultural environment with easy integration
Example: A French retiree in Essaouira reports living comfortably on €900/month, including housing, domestic help, and regular social activities.
Expat communities are well established in Marrakech, Agadir, Rabat, and Essaouira—making social integration smoother.
Tips for Living Well in Morocco on Any Budget
Estimating Your Budget by Lifestyle
Monthly cost estimates for different profiles:
- Minimalist (solo, local lifestyle): €400–€600
- Standard (couple, moderate comforts): €800–€1,200
- Premium lifestyle (family or luxury living): €1,500–€2,500
Pro tip: Always include a margin for unexpected expenses (medical care, travel, housing changes).
Affordable Housing Opportunities
To reduce the price of living in Morocco, consider:
- Buying and renovating older homes or riads in medinas—priced between €30,000 and €80,000
- Shared housing or coliving spaces, especially for digital nomads (Agadir, Taghazout, Dakhla)
- Long-term leases (12 months) that are cheaper than short stays
Smart Ways to Cut Daily Expenses
Here are a few smart strategies to optimize your Morocco cost of living:
- Groceries: Shop at souks and local shops instead of international supermarkets.
- Healthcare: Subscribe to a private health insurance plan (e.g., Allianz Morocco, Saham).
- Lifestyle: Embrace home-cooked Moroccan meals—tajines and couscous are healthy and affordable.
- Transport: Opt for monthly transport passes or shared ride apps over taxis.
Conclusion
In 2025, life in Morocco continues to offer a compelling mix of comfort, climate, safety, and affordability. Whether you're an investor, retiree, or remote worker, the cost of living in Morocco allows you to start a new chapter in a warm and authentic setting.
As the standard of living in Morocco rises steadily, opportunities abound for those who plan carefully. With this comprehensive guide on Morocco's cost of living, you now have the insight to confidently pursue your relocation or investment project.