Finding a place to call home is one of the most exciting parts of moving to Morocco. But before you pack your bags and dream of mint tea on your balcony, you need to know one important thing: how much does housing cost in Morocco?
Good news—Morocco offers something for every budget. Whether you want a cozy apartment in the ancient medina of Fes or a modern flat near the beaches of Agadir, there are options waiting for you. Thanks to recent data from Mubawab, Morocco’s popular real estate website, we can look at real numbers and help you plan your next chapter in this beautiful country.
Let me walk you through what you can expect to pay for rent in Morocco’s most popular cities.
Understanding the Housing Cost in Morocco
Before we dive into the numbers, let me explain something important. The prices I’m sharing are for unfurnished apartments—what Moroccans call “appartements vides.” These are empty flats without furniture, which is the most common way to rent long-term in Morocco.
If you prefer furnished apartments, they exist too, but they usually cost more. Many expats and digital nomads choose furnished places for shorter stays, while those planning to settle down often pick unfurnished apartments and buy their own furniture.
Now, let’s explore the prices city by city!
Rental Prices Across Morocco’s Major Cities
Tangier: The Gateway to Africa
Average rent: 6,900 dirhams per month
(approximately $690 USD)
Tangier sits at the northern tip of Morocco, where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Mediterranean Sea. This city has been growing fast, with new businesses and a modern port bringing energy and opportunity.
The housing cost in Morocco’s Tangier falls in the middle range. You get a mix of old-world charm in the medina and modern apartments in newer neighborhoods like Malabata or Boukhalef. If you love the sea and want easy access to Europe, Tangier might be your perfect match.
Fes: The Most Affordable Choice
Average rent: 2,600 dirhams per month
(approximately $260 USD)
Here’s a surprise for you—Fes is the cheapest city for housing in Morocco! At just 2,600 dirhams per month, you can find an apartment in one of the world’s oldest living medieval cities.
Fes is famous for its incredible medina, traditional crafts, and the oldest university in the world. If you want to experience authentic Moroccan life without spending too much, Fes offers amazing value. The lower prices mean your money goes further, leaving more for exploring the famous tanneries and enjoying local cuisine.
Kenitra: The Quiet Choice
Average rent: 3,600 dirhams per month
(approximately $360 USD)
Kenitra is a city many tourists skip, but locals know its secret. Located between Rabat and Tangier, this Atlantic coast city offers affordable living with a relaxed pace of life.
At 3,600 dirhams monthly, Kenitra provides good value for those who want to be near larger cities without paying big-city prices. The beach is close, the people are welcoming, and your wallet will thank you.
Agadir: Sunshine on a Budget
Average rent: 4,200 dirhams per month
(approximately $420 USD)
Agadir is Morocco’s beach paradise. After an earthquake destroyed the old city in 1960, it was rebuilt as a modern resort town with wide boulevards and long sandy beaches.
For 4,200 dirhams, you can wake up to sunshine almost every day of the year. Agadir attracts many retirees and winter visitors from Europe who love the warm climate and fresh seafood. If you dream of surfing, golfing, and eating grilled fish by the ocean, Agadir has your name on it.
Marrakech: The Red City
Average rent: 7,400 dirhams per month
(approximately $740 USD)
Ah, Marrakech! The city that captures every visitor’s heart with its pink walls, busy souks, and magical sunsets over the Atlas Mountains.
The housing cost in Morocco’s Marrakech reflects its popularity. At 7,400 dirhams, you pay a premium to live in this famous destination. But many say it’s worth every dirham. From traditional riads in the medina to modern apartments in Guéliz, Marrakech offers diverse housing options for different lifestyles.
Casablanca: The Economic Heart
Average rent: 8,300 dirhams per month
(approximately $830 USD)
Casablanca is Morocco’s biggest city and its business capital. If you’re moving for work, chances are your job is here. The city pulses with energy, shopping malls, restaurants, and a cosmopolitan lifestyle.
Higher prices reflect the economic opportunities. At 8,300 dirhams monthly, Casablanca costs more than most Moroccan cities, but salaries tend to be higher too. Neighborhoods like Maarif, Gauthier, and Ain Diab are popular with expats and young professionals.
Rabat: The Capital Premium
Average rent: 9,800 dirhams per month
(approximately $980 USD)
Rabat takes the crown as Morocco’s most expensive city for housing. As the political capital, it hosts embassies, government offices, and international organizations.
At nearly 10,000 dirhams monthly, living in Rabat requires a bigger budget. But you get a clean, organized city with beautiful gardens, historic sites, and a pleasant ocean breeze. Many diplomats and professionals choose Rabat for its quality of life and safety.
Quick Comparison: Housing Costs Across Morocco
| City | Monthly Rent (MAD) | Monthly Rent (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Fes |
2,600 |
~$260 |
|
Kenitra |
3,600 |
~$360 |
|
Agadir |
4,200 |
~$420 |
|
Tangier |
6,900 |
~$690 |
|
Marrakech |
7,400 |
~$740 |
|
Casablanca |
8,300 |
~$830 |
|
Rabat |
9,800 |
~$980 |
Tips for Finding Your Moroccan Home
Now that you know the housing cost in Morocco, here are some practical tips:
Start your search on Mubawab. This website is like Morocco’s Zillow, with listings across the country. You can filter by city, price, and apartment type.
Consider neighborhoods carefully. Prices vary a lot within each city. A fancy area in Fes might cost as much as a simple neighborhood in Casablanca.
Visit before signing. If possible, come to Morocco first and see apartments in person. Photos don’t always tell the whole story.
Negotiate politely. In Morocco, there’s often room to discuss the price, especially for longer leases.
Your Moroccan Adventure Awaits
Whether you choose budget-friendly Fes or vibrant Casablanca, Morocco has a home waiting for you. The diversity of prices means you can find something that fits your dreams and your budget.
Now I want to hear from you! Which Moroccan city interests you most? Are you looking for affordable living or willing to pay more for a specific lifestyle? Drop a comment below and share your thoughts—I love connecting with fellow Morocco enthusiasts!
