Morocco is a country located in North Africa, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. It is a popular destination for tourists and expatriates, offering a rich cultural experience and a diverse economy. In this article, we will discuss the cost of living in Morocco, including the local currency, a comparison to the UK and USA, the breakdown of costs for different household sizes, and the most common forms of payment in Morocco.
The Local Currency in Morocco
The local currency in Morocco is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). As of February 2023, 1 USD is equivalent to approximately 9.60 MAD, and 1 GBP is equivalent to approximately 12.55 MAD. The exchange rate can fluctuate, so it is essential to check the current rate before making any transactions.
Cost of Living in Morocco Compared to the UK and USA
The cost of living in Morocco is generally lower than in the UK and the USA. However, the exact comparison depends on several factors, such as the region, lifestyle, and individual spending habits.
According to the Numbeo Cost of Living Index, as of February 2023, the cost of living in Morocco is 54.76% lower than in the UK and 61.31% lower than in the USA. This index takes into account the cost of accommodation, food, transportation, utilities, and leisure activities. However, it is important to note that this index is based on averages and may not reflect the exact costs for every individual.
Breakdown of Costs in Morocco
The cost of living in Morocco can vary significantly depending on the region, the household size, and the lifestyle. In the following sections, we will break down the costs for singles, couples, and families of four in the categories of housing, food, utilities, leisure, transport, clothing, and household goods.
Housing
The cost of housing in Morocco depends on several factors, such as the region, the type of accommodation, and the amenities. In general, renting an apartment in a central area of a city can cost between 3,000 and 10,000 MAD per month, while a villa or a large house can cost between 10,000 and 30,000 MAD per month.
For a single person, a one-bedroom apartment in a central area can cost around 4,000 MAD per month, while a couple may need a two-bedroom apartment, which can cost around 6,000 MAD per month. A family of four may require a larger apartment or a house, which can cost between 10,000 and 20,000 MAD per month.
Food
Moroccan cuisine is known for its diverse and flavorful dishes, including tagine, couscous, and harira soup. The cost of food in Morocco depends on several factors, such as the region, the type of food, and the eating habits.
In general, a single person can expect to spend around 1,500 to 2,000 MAD per month on groceries and dining out. A couple may spend around 2,500 to 3,500 MAD per month, while a family of four may spend around 4,500 to 6,000 MAD per month.
Utilities
The cost of utilities in Morocco can vary depending on the region, the type of accommodation, and the usage. In general, the cost of electricity, gas, and water can range from 300 to 1,000 MAD per month, depending on the household size and usage.
Leisure
Morocco offers a wide range of leisure activities, such as visiting historical sites, shopping in souks, and enjoying the beach. The cost of leisure activities in Morocco can vary depending on the region and the type of activity.
In general, a single person can expect to spend around 500 to 1,000 MAD per month on leisure activities, while a couple may spend around 1,000 to 2,000 MAD per month. A family of four may spend around 2,000 to 4,000 MAD per month on leisure activities.
Transport
The cost of transport in Morocco can vary depending on the region and the mode of transportation. In general, public transportation in Morocco is affordable, with a single bus or tram ride costing between 4 and 7 MAD. Taxis are also a popular mode of transportation, with fares starting at around 10 MAD.
For a single person, the cost of transport may range from 200 to 500 MAD per month, depending on the frequency of travel. A couple may spend around 400 to 1,000 MAD per month, while a family of four may spend around 800 to 2,000 MAD per month.
Clothing
The cost of clothing in Morocco can vary depending on the region and the type of clothing. In general, clothing in Morocco is affordable, with traditional clothing, such as djellabas and kaftans, costing between 200 and 500 MAD.
For a single person, the cost of clothing may range from 500 to 1,000 MAD per month, depending on the individual’s fashion preferences. A couple may spend around 1,000 to 2,000 MAD per month, while a family of four may spend around 2,000 to 4,000 MAD per month.
Household Goods
The cost of household goods in Morocco can vary depending on the region and the type of product. In general, household goods, such as furniture and appliances, can be affordable, with a basic living room set costing between 5,000 and 10,000 MAD.
For a single person, the cost of household goods may range from 1,000 to 2,000 MAD per month, depending on the individual’s needs. A couple may spend around 2,000 to 4,000 MAD per month, while a family of four may spend around 4,000 to 8,000 MAD per month.
Forms of Payment in Morocco
The most common forms of payment in Morocco are cash and credit/debit cards. Cash is widely accepted in Morocco, and it is recommended to carry small bills and coins for smaller purchases. Credit and debit cards are also accepted in many establishments, especially in urban areas.
In addition to cash and cards, mobile payment apps, such as Orange Money and M-Wallet, are becoming more popular in Morocco. These apps allow users to make payments and transfer money using their mobile phones.
It is essential to note that some establishments may not accept foreign credit or debit cards, and ATM fees can vary. It is recommended to check with your bank and have multiple forms of payment when traveling to Morocco.
Overall, the cost of living in Morocco is generally lower than in the UK and the USA, with affordable housing, food, and leisure activities. The cost of living can vary depending on the region, lifestyle, and household size. Cash and credit/debit cards are the most common forms of payment, and mobile payment apps are becoming more popular. By understanding the costs and forms of payment in Morocco, individuals and families can better plan their expenses and enjoy all that this beautiful country has to offer.