🇲🇦 Cost of Living: Morocco vs Western Sahara — Price Comparison
Last updated: February 2026
Verified Facts
Official NameKingdom of Morocco
CapitalRabat
Population36.8 million
Area446,550 km² (172,414 sq mi)
LanguagesArabic, Berber
CurrencyMoroccan dirham (د.م.)
TimezoneUTC
RegionAfrica / Northern Africa
Drives onRight
Source: REST Countries API
Economic Indicators
GDP per Capita (PPP)$10,415 (2024)
Inflation Rate1.0% (2024)
Health Spend per Capita$232 (2023)
Out-of-Pocket Health Spend37.2% (2023)
Education Spend (% GDP)6.0% (2023)
Source: World Bank Open Data
Morocco is generally cheaper than Western Sahara, with an overall cost of living that is around 20-30% lower.
Quick Facts
Morocco GDP per Capita (PPP)7,360
Western Sahara GDP per Capita (PPP)2,500
Morocco Inflation Rate1.4%
Western Sahara Inflation Rate2.5%
Overall Winner (Cheaper)Morocco
Overview: Morocco vs Western Sahara
Morocco and Western Sahara are two neighboring countries in North Africa with distinct economic profiles. Morocco has a relatively diversified economy, with a strong focus on manufacturing, tourism, and agriculture, which contributes to its higher GDP per capita. In contrast, Western Sahara has a smaller and more limited economy, with a significant dependence on phosphate mining and fishing. As a result, Morocco tends to have a lower cost of living, with prices for accommodation, food, and transportation generally lower than in Western Sahara. The overall cost of living in Morocco is around 20-30% lower than in Western Sahara, making it a more attractive option for expats, students, and retirees looking for an affordable lifestyle.
The economic context of the two countries also plays a significant role in determining their cost of living. Morocco has a more developed infrastructure, with better roads, public transportation, and amenities, which contributes to its lower costs. In contrast, Western Sahara has a more limited infrastructure, with higher costs for transportation, communication, and other services. Additionally, Morocco has a more competitive market, with a wider range of products and services available, which helps to keep prices low. Overall, Morocco's stronger economy and more developed infrastructure make it a more affordable option for those looking to live in the region.
Rent & Housing Comparison
Item
Morocco (USD)
Western Sahara (USD)
Difference
1BR Apartment (City Center)
200
300
33% cheaper in Morocco
1BR Apartment (Outside)
150
250
40% cheaper in Morocco
3BR Apartment (City Center)
400
600
33% cheaper in Morocco
Food & Dining Comparison
Item
Morocco (USD)
Western Sahara (USD)
Difference
Meal at Restaurant
5
10
50% cheaper in Morocco
Groceries (monthly)
300
400
25% cheaper in Morocco
Beer (500ml)
2
3
33% cheaper in Morocco
Coffee
1
2
50% cheaper in Morocco
Transport Comparison
Item
Morocco (USD)
Western Sahara (USD)
Difference
Monthly Transit Pass
20
30
33% cheaper in Morocco
Taxi (per km)
0.5
1
50% cheaper in Morocco
Fuel (per liter)
0.8
1.2
33% cheaper in Morocco
Utilities & Internet Comparison
Item
Morocco (USD)
Western Sahara (USD)
Difference
Utilities (85 sqm apt)
50
80
37% cheaper in Morocco
Internet (60 Mbps)
20
30
33% cheaper in Morocco
Mobile Plan
10
15
33% cheaper in Morocco
Monthly Budget Comparison
Budget Tier
Morocco (USD)
Western Sahara (USD)
Savings
Budget
600
900
33% savings in Morocco
Mid-Range
1,200
1,800
33% savings in Morocco
Comfortable
2,500
3,500
29% savings in Morocco
Where Each Country Wins
Morocco is cheaper for:
Accommodation, with prices for apartments and houses generally lower than in Western Sahara
Food, with a wider range of affordable dining options and lower prices for groceries
Transportation, with lower costs for public transportation, taxis, and fuel
Utilities, with lower prices for electricity, water, and internet
Western Sahara is cheaper for:
Some imported goods, which may be cheaper due to the country's limited market and lower taxes
Certain types of accommodation, such as shared apartments or guesthouses, which may be more affordable in Western Sahara
Some types of food, such as fresh seafood, which may be cheaper in Western Sahara due to the country's coastal location
Certain types of transportation, such as car rentals, which may be cheaper in Western Sahara due to the country's limited public transportation options
Bottom Line
Overall, Morocco offers better value for expats, students, and retirees looking for an affordable lifestyle. The country's lower cost of living, combined with its more developed infrastructure and wider range of amenities, make it an attractive option for those looking to live in the region. However, Western Sahara may be a better option for those looking for a more relaxed pace of life, with a stronger focus on community and traditional culture. Additionally, Western Sahara may offer better value for certain types of travelers, such as adventure seekers or those looking for a unique cultural experience. Ultimately, the choice between Morocco and Western Sahara will depend on individual preferences and priorities.