How is living in Morocco as an American?

Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the Morocco Property Pack

Everything you need to know before buying real estate is included in our Morocco Property Pack

Who is the author of this content?

SANDS OF WEALTH

A team specialized in real estate investing in MENA countries (Morocco, UAE, Oman, etc.)

We are a team of financial experts, legal professionals, developers, and local real estate specialists dedicated to helping people like you avoid mistakes when investing in real estate in a foreign place, particularly in Morocco. If you'd like to learn more about us, you can check our presentation page.

How this content was created 🔎📝

At Sands of Wealth, we explore the Moroccan real estate market every day. Our team doesn't just analyze data from a distance—we're actively engaging with local realtors, investors, and property managers in cities like Casablanca, Marrakech, and Rabat. This hands-on approach allows us to gain a deep understanding of the market from the inside out.

These observations are originally based on what we've learned through these conversations and our observations. But it was not enough. To back them up, we also needed to rely on trusted resources

We prioritize accuracy and authority. Trends lacking solid data or expert validation were excluded.

Trustworthiness is central to our work. Every source and citation is clearly listed, ensuring transparency. A writing AI-powered tool was used solely to refine readability and engagement.

To make the information accessible, our team designed custom infographics that clarify key points. We hope you will like them! All illustrations and media were created in-house and added manually.

How many Americans currently live in Morocco?

As of September 2025, an estimated 1,971 Americans live in Morocco, though no official statistics exist from either the U.S. State Department or Moroccan government.

The American expat community concentrates primarily in four major cities: Casablanca (the economic hub), Marrakech (tourist and cultural center), Rabat (the capital), and Tangier (northern port city with European connections).

Online expat forums and community estimates suggest several thousand Americans reside across Morocco, with numbers growing steadily due to remote work opportunities and Morocco's increasing appeal as a cost-effective relocation destination. The actual figure likely fluctuates between short-term residents on tourist visas and long-term residents with proper residency permits.

Most Americans cluster in urban areas where English is more commonly spoken and international amenities are readily available, making integration easier for newcomers.

Why do Americans usually decide to move to Morocco?

The primary driver for American relocation to Morocco is the dramatically lower cost of living, approximately 74% less expensive than the United States.

Remote workers particularly benefit from earning U.S. salaries while enjoying Moroccan living costs, creating significant purchasing power advantages. A monthly budget of $644 in Morocco provides a lifestyle equivalent to spending $2,498 in the United States.

Cultural immersion opportunities attract Americans seeking authentic experiences in a historically rich environment. Morocco offers diverse landscapes from Atlantic coastlines to Atlas Mountains and Sahara Desert access, all within a stable political framework that encourages foreign investment and residency.

The strategic location appeals to frequent travelers, providing easy access to Europe (3-hour flight to major cities), sub-Saharan Africa, and Middle Eastern destinations. Business-oriented Americans leverage Morocco's growing international commerce scene and its position as a gateway between continents.

Family-oriented culture and generally safe environment make Morocco attractive for Americans seeking community-focused lifestyle changes away from individualistic American society.

Is it easy to get by speaking only English, or do you need French or Arabic?

English-only speakers can survive in tourist-friendly areas of Casablanca, Marrakech, and Rabat, but full independence requires French or Arabic proficiency.

French serves as the administrative and business language for contracts, banking, legal procedures, and most official documentation. Moroccan Arabic (Darija) dominates daily interactions in markets, neighborhoods, and local services.

Employment opportunities remain severely limited for English-only speakers, as most professional positions require French fluency at minimum. Healthcare providers, legal professionals, and government officials typically conduct business in French or Arabic.

Relying solely on translators becomes expensive and creates dependency for basic tasks like signing leases, opening bank accounts, or handling property transactions. Misunderstandings frequently occur when important documents aren't properly translated.

Learning basic French before arrival significantly improves integration speed and reduces daily frustrations with bureaucratic processes.

What is the cost of living like compared to the United States?

Category	Morocco (USD)	United States (USD)
Monthly Living Cost (Single)	$644	$2,498
One-Bedroom City Center	$324/month	$1,640/month
Local Restaurant Meal	$3-5	$15-25
Utilities (Monthly)	$30-50	$150-200
Internet (Monthly)	$20-30	$60-80
Transportation (Monthly)	$15-25	$100-150
Groceries (Monthly)	$150-200	$300-400

How different is the lifestyle in Morocco from back home?

Moroccan lifestyle prioritizes family and community relationships over individual achievement, representing a fundamental shift from American individualistic culture.

Daily rhythms follow Islamic prayer schedules and seasonal patterns rather than rigid 9-to-5 structures. Business meetings may start later than scheduled, and social interactions take precedence over strict time management.

Shopping involves visiting traditional souks and local markets rather than large supermarkets, requiring more time and negotiation skills. Fresh food purchases happen daily or every few days instead of weekly bulk shopping.

Social hierarchies and respect for elders play larger roles in daily interactions. Religious observances like Ramadan significantly impact business hours, social activities, and community life throughout the month-long period.

Hospitality customs require longer social interactions, with tea ceremonies and extended conversations being normal parts of business and personal relationships.

What are the things Americans tend to love most about living there?

1. **Affordability and luxury access** - Domestic help, quality restaurants, and comfortable housing become accessible on modest American incomes2. **Rich cultural experiences** - Daily exposure to 1,000+ years of Islamic architecture, art, and traditions provides constant learning opportunities3. **Geographic diversity** - Weekend trips to Atlas Mountains, Atlantic beaches, or Sahara Desert offer varied recreational options within the same country4. **Travel convenience** - Three-hour flights reach major European cities, making continental exploration affordable and frequent5. **Safety and security** - Low violent crime rates and minimal gun violence create peaceful living environments, especially for families6. **Warm community atmosphere** - Neighborhood connections and family-oriented social structures provide strong support networks7. **Weather and climate** - Year-round mild temperatures in coastal areas eliminate harsh winters experienced in much of the United States

What are the main challenges or frustrations they often face?

Language barriers create the most significant ongoing frustration for American expats in Morocco.

Bureaucratic procedures require patience and multiple visits to complete simple tasks like visa renewals or property registration. Document requirements change without notice, and officials may provide conflicting information.

Different time concepts and scheduling flexibility can frustrate Americans accustomed to punctuality and efficiency. Service providers may arrive hours late or reschedule appointments with minimal notice.

Tourist pricing affects Americans who lack local language skills or cultural knowledge, leading to overcharging in markets, restaurants, and service situations. Building local relationships helps combat this but takes time to establish.

Healthcare and education standards vary significantly from American expectations, particularly in public facilities. Private alternatives exist but require research and higher costs.

How safe do Americans generally feel living in Morocco?

Americans report feeling significantly safer in Morocco compared to many U.S. cities, particularly regarding violent crime and gun violence.

Petty theft and tourist-targeted scams occur regularly in major cities, but serious violent crimes against foreigners remain rare. Police presence is visible in tourist areas and major cities, though response times and efficiency vary.

Women travelers and residents experience different safety considerations, with dress codes and behavior expectations varying by region and social context. Conservative areas require more modest clothing and limited public interactions between unmarried men and women.

Political stability and low terrorism risk make Morocco one of North Africa's safest countries for American residents. Government security measures focus heavily on preventing extremist activities while maintaining tourist and expat safety.

Road safety presents the primary risk, with aggressive driving styles and limited traffic enforcement creating hazardous conditions for both drivers and pedestrians.

Can foreigners buy property in Morocco, and if so, how does the process work?

Americans can legally purchase property in Morocco except for agricultural land, which remains restricted to Moroccan citizens.

The property purchase process requires hiring both a notary and lawyer since all contracts are written in French or Arabic. Due diligence includes title verification, property history checks, and ensuring clear ownership without liens or disputes.

Bank transfers for property payments must include proof of funds legitimacy, often requiring documentation from American banks showing income sources and legal fund origins. Cash transactions above certain thresholds trigger additional scrutiny from Moroccan financial authorities.

Property registration involves multiple government offices and can take several months to complete. French language proficiency significantly speeds the process and reduces misunderstandings during negotiations and documentation review.

It's something we develop in our Morocco property pack.

We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Morocco versus those in neighboring countries. It provides a clear view of how this country positions itself as a real estate investment destination, which might interest you if you're planning to invest there.

What is healthcare like for Americans living in Morocco?

Private healthcare provides the recommended option for American expats, offering quality comparable to international standards at significantly lower costs than U.S. healthcare.

Public healthcare quality varies dramatically between facilities and regions, with basic services available but limited advanced procedures and English-speaking staff. Wait times can be extensive, and equipment may be outdated in rural areas.

Private insurance costs range from $500-1,500 annually for comprehensive coverage, providing access to private clinics and hospitals in major cities. Many Americans maintain U.S. health insurance for major procedures or travel to Europe for specialized treatments.

Prescription medications are generally available and affordable, though specific American brands may require special ordering or substitution with European equivalents. Pharmacists often speak French but limited English.

Emergency medical evacuation insurance is recommended for serious conditions requiring treatment unavailable in Morocco, with evacuation to European medical centers being the typical protocol.

How is it to raise a family as an American in Morocco?

Morocco offers an exceptionally family-oriented environment where children experience strong community support and cultural richness.

International schools in Casablanca, Rabat, and Marrakech provide American or British curriculum education in English, though tuition costs range from $5,000-15,000 annually per child. These schools offer familiar educational standards and prepare students for U.S. university admission.

Safety for children is generally excellent, with low crime rates and community watching that provides peace of mind for parents. Children can play outdoors and walk neighborhoods with minimal supervision concerns compared to many U.S. locations.

Cultural adaptation challenges include language acquisition for children who must navigate Arabic/French environments outside international school settings. Local friendships require cultural understanding and language skills development.

Healthcare for children meets international standards in private facilities, with pediatric specialists available in major cities. Vaccinations and routine care are affordable and accessible.

It's something we develop in our Morocco property pack.

What should Americans consider carefully before making the move?

1. **Language preparation** - Begin learning French or Arabic before arrival to ensure independence and better integration opportunities2. **Visa and residency research** - Understand long-term residency requirements and renewal procedures to avoid legal complications3. **Financial planning** - Establish banking relationships and understand money transfer regulations for ongoing income and expenses4. **Cultural flexibility** - Assess personal tolerance for different social norms, religious influences, and bureaucratic systems5. **Healthcare preparation** - Research private insurance options and identify quality medical facilities in your intended residence area6. **Property market knowledge** - Understand legal requirements, market conditions, and investment opportunities before making real estate decisions7. **Professional network building** - Connect with existing American expat communities and local professionals before relocating

Administrative complexity requires patience and preparation, as government procedures often involve multiple offices and extended processing times. Having local contacts who understand the system significantly eases the transition process.

It's something we develop in our Morocco property pack.

Conclusion

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. We do not assume any liability for actions taken based on the information provided.

Sources

1. Sands of Wealth - Living in Morocco as an American
2. Savvy Nomad - Statistics Americans Abroad
3. Blondie in Morocco - French Language Requirements
4. Do People Speak - English in Morocco
5. Life in Morocco - Living Without Arabic or French
6. Morocco World News - Relocating from US to Morocco
7. Wikipedia - Moroccan Americans
8. AGS Movers - Expat Guide Moving to Morocco