Marrakech

Marrakech is the beating heart of expat Morocco. A city of vivid contrasts — the sensory overload of Djemaa el-Fna square, the tranquil beauty of riad courtyards, the modern luxury of the Guéliz neighbourhood — it has attracted foreign residents for over a century. Today it hosts one of Africa's most established international communities: French and British retirees, artists and designers, remote workers drawn by the sunshine and affordability, and entrepreneurs building tourism and hospitality businesses. A comfortable life costs $900–$1,400/month. You can rent a beautifully restored riad with a rooftop terrace for $500–$700/month, eat well for $10/day, and enjoy world-class cultural experiences on almost any budget. The medina (old city) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site; the Palmeraie offers villa living surrounded by palm trees; Guéliz and Hivernage are the modern, European-influenced districts where most expats settle. Marrakech's main drawbacks are summer heat (regularly 38–42°C in July–August) and tourist-area hassle — both manageable once you know the city.