How much does it really cost to live, work, or travel in ? Here's what to expect for daily expenses and expat living.
Currency Guide for Morocco (ISO Code: MA)
When planning a one-week mid-range stay in Morocco, a traveler should budget approximately 10,000 to 15,000 MAD (Moroccan dirhams), which equates to about $1,000 to $1,500 USD depending on the current exchange rate. Daily expenses can vary significantly, but a typical budget might look like this: 🍽️ A meal at a local restaurant can cost around 80-120 MAD; ☕ A coffee in a café is generally about 10-25 MAD; 🚌 Public transport fares range from 7-15 MAD; 📱 A prepaid SIM card might set you back about 50-200 MAD; and 🏨 Accommodation in a budget hotel or Airbnb can be about 300-700 MAD per night. Overall, Morocco is considered an affordable destination for travelers, especially compared to the United States, where similar mid-range trips can be up to 50% more expensive. When compared to Australia, travelers will find Morocco significantly cheaper, with costs approximately 30-40% lower.
Living in Morocco as an Expat
For expats living in Morocco, the typical monthly expenses can range from 8,000 to 15,000 MAD, depending on lifestyle and location. This estimate covers essentials like rent, groceries, utilities, and transportation. It’s crucial to have a solid understanding of banking options; most banks allow for ATM withdrawals if you have an international card, but transaction fees may apply. Using credit cards is widely accepted, especially in urban areas, but cash is essential for smaller vendors and markets. When it comes to exchanging money, locals often find it more beneficial to use online transfer services like Wise or OFX for sending and receiving money, as they generally offer better exchange rates and lower fees than local currency exchanges. Overall, ensuring you have a mix of cash for everyday purchases and a reliable digital method for larger transactions can help manage finances while living in Morocco.