Rabat – Tangier has ranked among the top 10 African cities with the highest cost of living in 2026, according to the latest Numbeo Cost of Living Index. The northern Moroccan city placed 9th across the continent.
With a cost of living index of 36.1, Tangier ranked ahead of several major African cities, reflecting rising prices for everyday expenses such as groceries, transportation, and services.
While rent levels in the city remain relatively moderate compared to some African capitals, the overall cost of living continues to climb. Tangier’s position in the top 10 makes it the highest-ranked Moroccan city on the African list for 2026.
According to Numbeo’s estimates, a family of four spends an estimated MAD 16,724 ($1,846) per month in Morocco, excluding rent, while a single person spends about MAD 4,566 ($504).
Overall, the cost of living in Morocco is 54.1% lower than in the United States, and rent prices are 79.2% lower, despite recent increases in major cities, added the report.
Still, Tangier’s rise into Africa’s top 10 shows that living costs are becoming a growing concern for many urban residents as the city continues to expand and attract investment.
Three other Moroccan cities also appear in the ranking. Casablanca, the country’s economic capital, ranked 11th in Africa with a cost of living index of 35.2. The city recorded higher rent and grocery costs compared to other Moroccan cities.
Rabat, Morocco’s capital, followed closely in 12th place, with an index of 34.4. While slightly cheaper than Casablanca, Rabat still shows elevated living costs, especially in housing and daily services.
Marrakech ranked 13th, with a cost of living index of 32.7. Although generally more affordable than Tangier, Casablanca, and Rabat, the city continues to feel the impact of tourism on prices, particularly in food and restaurants.
Together, these rankings show that Morocco has four cities among Africa’s top 15. This points to rising urban living costs across the country.
At the top of the African ranking is Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire, which placed first with a cost of living index of 45.2. It was followed by Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in second place with 42.6.
Pretoria, South Africa, ranked third, with a cost of living index of 41.6, while also recording very high local purchasing power compared to other African cities.
