Morocco has long been a popular destination for tourists, with around 700,000 Brits gracing the North African country each year. But Morocco has also recently emerged as a highly sought-after retirement destination too. Between its sunny climate, low cost of living, and rich cultural heritage, it is no wonder why. But how exactly is retirement in Morocco viable, and where should you consider retiring?
Why Retire in Morocco?
Morocco’s popularity as a travel destination has maintained itself for decades, building on millennia of cultural history to create a compelling case to UK holiday-makers. Lately, though, it has begun to foster a meaningful sub-community of British ex-pat retirees. Generally speaking, UK migrants have been drawn by the lower costs of living in Morocco – allowing retirees to stretch their money that little bit further. But lower costs alone do not a retirement country make. Here, those low costs still afford a high standard of living, while also offering incredible climate and culture besides.
The Best Places to Retire in Morocco
Morocco is a vast and diverse country, with a great variety of cities and regions in which to settle. Each area has its own unique advantages, making independent research and study a vital part of any Morocco retirement plans. However, there are some stand-out options for retirement already, as evidenced by the sheer number of UK retirees already populating them.
#1. Marrakesh
Marrakesh is one of Morocco’s most famous cities, home to one of the most famous markets on the planet. Here, the culture is the biggest draw, with the market and the sheer volume of quality produce available a close second. It is a very popular ex-pat city for many nations, meaning you wouldn’t feel alone in moving there.
#2. Essaouira
Essaouira is an incredible port city on Morocco’s western coast, facing out to the Atlantic ocean. It is an historic city too, with many monuments to its past importance as a fortified urban centre. This is a small city with a laid-back atmosphere and an excellent local culture; it is also a water-sporting paradise, making it perfect for the thrill-seeking retiree.
#3. Casablanca
Finally, we come to Casablanca. Casablanca is a little more expensive to live in than the previous options, but also perhaps more alluring – particularly to those of a certain age. This is a large city with a large ‘old town’, suffuse with European influence and bound to have something for everyone. If your retirement budget is larger, this is the place to be.
Financial and Legal Considerations
In considering a move abroad for retirement, financial planning is nothing short of key to guaranteeing your comfort. This means calculating how much you could afford to live on, and seeking routes to achieving it within and without your pension. The obvious option for someone effecting a full move to Morocco would be to sell their home, and use the proceeds to buy property in Morocco. However, another option to consider might be equity release, which would allow you to access funds through the value of your property without having to sell. This means you could continue leverage your UK property for income, either via letting out through an agency or eventually selling in the future.
Wrap Up: A Short Guide to Retirement in Morocco
At any rate, and decisions you do make need to be couched in the facts: the cost of living in Morocco, and the cost of any logistical steps between you and settling down, be they administrative or legal. While the cost of living is generally lower than in the UK, it is still extremely important to factor in such expenses as healthcare, housing, and utilities. All in all, Morocco is definitely a place worth a visit! We also recommend creating your own custom calendar so you can enjoy memories of your visits to Morocco all year round.
What about you, what are your retirement plans? Feel free to share any tips & advice below!
ABOUTME
We overland. We eat plants and fungi. We live outside as much as possible. We are all connected. A female travel blogger overlanding and writing about ecotourism, ethical and sustainable travel, socially conscious travel and housesitting. An online travel magazine since 2015.
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