When you think of Morocco, you might imagine bustling souks, stunning mosques, and the sweeping Sahara desert. But there’s another side to this North African country that’s worth exploring: the vibrant city of Casablanca. As an experienced real estate expert who has spent considerable time in this city, I can tell you that Casablanca is a place of contrasts, where tradition meets modernity, and where the cost of living can vary greatly depending on your lifestyle. So, let’s dive in and explore what you need to know about the cost of living in Casablanca, Morocco. 🌍
Accommodation Costs
First things first, let’s talk about housing. As in any city, the cost of accommodation in Casablanca can vary widely depending on the location and type of property. For instance, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center can cost anywhere from 4,000 to 7,000 Moroccan Dirham (MAD) per month, while the same apartment outside the city center can cost between 3,000 and 5,000 MAD. 🏠
Food and Dining
Next up is food. Moroccan cuisine is a delightful blend of Mediterranean, Arabic, and Berber influences, and eating out in Casablanca can be a real treat. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant can cost around 50 MAD, while a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant can set you back about 300 MAD. Groceries are also reasonably priced, with a loaf of bread costing around 1.30 MAD and a liter of milk costing about 7 MAD. 🍽️
Transportation
Getting around Casablanca is relatively cheap. A one-way ticket on local transport costs around 6 MAD, while a monthly pass is about 210 MAD. Taxis start at 7.50 MAD, with an additional 8.50 MAD per kilometer. If you’re considering buying a car, a Volkswagen Golf 1.4 or equivalent new car costs around 210,000 MAD. 🚗
Utilities and Internet
Basic utilities for an 85m2 apartment, including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage, cost around 500 MAD per month. Internet (60 Mbps or more, unlimited data, cable/ADSL) costs around 220 MAD per month. 💻
Leisure and Entertainment
Leisure activities in Casablanca are also reasonably priced. A monthly gym membership in the business district costs around 400 MAD, while a ticket to the cinema costs about 70 MAD. 🎥
Education
If you’re moving to Casablanca with children, you’ll need to consider the cost of education. International schools can be quite expensive, with annual tuition fees ranging from 30,000 to 100,000 MAD. 🎒
Healthcare
Healthcare in Casablanca is generally good, with a mix of public and private hospitals. A short visit to a private doctor costs around 200 MAD. 🏥
FAQs
- Is Casablanca expensive to live in? The cost of living in Casablanca is relatively low compared to many Western cities, but it can vary greatly depending on your lifestyle.
- What is the average salary in Casablanca? The average salary in Casablanca is around 6,000 MAD per month.
- Is healthcare in Casablanca good? Yes, healthcare in Casablanca is generally good, with a mix of public and private hospitals.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the cost of living in Casablanca, Morocco, can vary greatly depending on your lifestyle and preferences. While housing, food, and transportation are relatively affordable, costs can add up if you choose to live in a high-end neighborhood, dine at upscale restaurants, or send your children to international schools. However, with its rich culture, vibrant lifestyle, and affordable cost of living, Casablanca offers a unique and rewarding living experience that’s hard to match. 🌆
