Living in Morocco: Pros, Cons and Budget in 2025
More and more Europeans, retirees, and digital nomads are choosing to move to Morocco, attracted by its climate, low cost of living, and warm culture. But like any relocation project, settling in Morocco requires thoughtful planning. What are the real advantages? What downsides should you expect? And most importantly, can you really live on €500 a month in Morocco? This in-depth guide will help you make an informed decision.
Why Move to Morocco?
A Sunny and Culturally Rich Lifestyle
Living in Morocco means embracing a lifestyle many people dream of. With over 300 days of sunshine per year in cities like Agadir, and landscapes ranging from the Atlas Mountains to the Atlantic coastline, Morocco offers a quality of life that’s hard to beat. You can walk around in a t-shirt in January, enjoy flavorful cuisine, and immerse yourself in a culture that’s both deeply rooted in tradition and open to modern influences. For many, moving to Morocco is about seeking authenticity and a slower, more grounded way of life.
A Much Lower Cost of Living
One of the strongest arguments for living in Morocco is the lower cost of living. Rent, services, restaurants, and transportation are all significantly cheaper than in Western Europe. For example, a 70 m² apartment in Agadir rents for around €250–400 per month, utilities included. A restaurant meal averages €4–6, and crossing a city by taxi rarely costs more than €2. If you’re planning to retire or work remotely, the budget to live in Morocco is generally very manageable.
Living in Morocco: The Main Advantages
Settling in Morocco often means embracing a slower pace of life. Professional pressure tends to be lower, especially for freelancers, entrepreneurs, or retirees. Locals are generally warm and curious about foreigners, especially in tourist-friendly cities. Whether in markets, cafés, hammams or small shops, daily interactions are a key part of the Moroccan experience.
The climate is another major advantage. While it varies by region, most places enjoy mild temperatures year-round. Cities like Essaouira or Tamraght are particularly popular with surfers, digital nomads, and young families looking for a lifestyle closer to nature and the ocean.
Living in Morocco: The Drawbacks to Consider
Still, life in Morocco isn’t without challenges. Understanding the downsides is essential before committing. Administrative processes, for example, can be slow and unpredictable. Whether you're applying for a residence permit, signing a lease, or registering a vehicle, bureaucracy can be confusing and often relies on informal local networks.
Healthcare quality also varies significantly by city. Casablanca and Rabat have reputable private clinics, but rural areas and smaller towns may lack adequate medical infrastructure. Taking out international health insurance is often recommended to ensure access to quality care.
Cultural differences — especially around time management, negotiation, or legal matters — can also be disorienting at first. Living in Morocco requires patience, adaptability, and a willingness to accept things may not work exactly as they do in Europe.
Can You Live on €500 a Month in Morocco?
Many ask whether it’s possible to live comfortably on 500 euros a month in Morocco. The answer depends heavily on the location and lifestyle. In Agadir, for instance, you could rent a simple studio for €200, eat local food for around €150, and use the remaining budget for transport, phone, and modest extras. It’s doable — but with limited comfort and little room for unexpected expenses.
In larger cities like Marrakech or Casablanca, the cost of living is higher, particularly for centrally located or modern housing. On the other hand, in smaller towns like Taroudant or Tafraoute, life is far cheaper, though services and amenities are more limited. You may need to sacrifice some convenience or social life in exchange for a lower budget.
Conclusion: Living in Morocco Requires Careful Planning
Living in Morocco can be a rewarding experience: sunny weather, affordable costs, and friendly people. But it’s also a real lifestyle change that requires openness and preparation. If possible, start with a few months of renting before fully relocating. Visit different cities, test the lifestyle, and get a feel for what suits you.
Ideally, work with local experts or real estate hunters to avoid common mistakes and speed up your integration. Morocco may not be paradise for everyone — but for many, it becomes a second home where life feels simpler, warmer, and more human.