There’s a prevalent misconception about the cost of living in Morocco that deserves clarification.
– When it comes to expenses, food isn’t the biggest wallet-drainer. Dining out can fit easily into a daily budget. For instance, a delicious tajine can be found for about 20 MAD (approximately 2 EUR), and you can have a filling breakfast for just 5 MAD (0.5 EUR).
– Healthcare costs, however, can be surprisingly high. A blood test might set you back around 370 MAD (37 EUR) for just a couple of tests, while in other countries, you could get the same for much less. For example, a head CT in Morocco could run 3000 MAD (300 EUR), compared to about 300 PLN (75 EUR) in Poland. Treatment for food poisoning in a private clinic might cost around 1800 MAD (180 EUR).
– Prices for everyday items can also be steep. For instance, a pack of 30 Vitamin B tablets is about 50 MAD (5 EUR) compared to just 3 PLN (0.75 EUR) in Poland.
– Tourists should strongly consider obtaining good travel insurance before visiting to avoid unexpected medical charges.
– On the bright side, personal tutoring can be quite profitable in Morocco. While language lessons might fetch only about 30 PLN (8 EUR) in Poland, comparable one-on-one classes in Morocco may go for about 200 MAD (20 EUR). This rate can be even higher at established schools.
– Renting accommodation can be comparable to major cities in Europe, with furnished studios in urban areas like Maarif costing around 4000-5000 MAD (400-500 EUR).
– Basic groceries can vary. For example, a liter of soy milk ranges from 39 to 60 MAD (4-6 EUR), while a popular brand of cheese costs between 40 to 70 MAD (4-7 EUR). Imported European products, especially cosmetics and electronics, often carry a significant markup.
– Nightlife in Morocco typically has an entry fee of a few euros, with many clubs offering free entry for women. Alcohol is produced locally, but it can still be pricy.
– Public transportation has its challenges. Taxis are a common option, but costs can accumulate quickly for locals. A taxi ride across town, such as from Maarif to Sidi Bernoussi, will likely cost about 60 MAD (6 EUR). Monthly transportation expenses can therefore add up considerably.
– While local buses may seem cheap for tourists, they can become costly for residents.
Understanding these aspects demonstrates that while food may be affordable, other essential services and living costs can lead to significant expenses in Morocco.
