In recent years, the choice of destinations outside Europe to spend retirement has gained momentum among many European retirees, particularly French ones, especially among those seeking a calmer, sunnier and more financially comfortable life. It is in this context that Agadir, in Morocco, has emerged as an increasingly attractive hypothesis.
The rising cost of living in France, especially housing and essential goods, has led many retirees to consider a move, whether permanently or just for a few months a year. For a long time, countries like Spain, Portugal or Senegal were at the top of preferences, but, according to , Agadir has been establishing itself as an increasingly considered alternative.
With mild temperatures most of the year and around 300 days of sunshine, the city offers an outdoor lifestyle that attracts those looking to escape Europe’s harshest winters. One of the retirees interviewed describes this reality in a simple way: “We live outdoors almost all year round; it is good for our spirits and health”.
A much lower cost of living
The financial factor repeatedly appears as one of the main reasons for this choice. Several testimonies indicate that, in Agadir, it is possible to guarantee rent, food and current expenses with amounts between 900 and 1,000 euros per month, something difficult to maintain in France with the same level of comfort.
Nathalie and Yves, originally from Marseille, moved to the city in 2014. Cited by the same source, they explain that the monthly charges represent around half of what they had in French territory, which allowed them to rent a spacious house with a garden for around 800 euros per month. Nathalie also highlights the difference in prices in local markets: “When I go to the Agadir souk, I spend less than ten euros on fruit and vegetables, enough for a week”.
More serenity and ease of integration
In addition to the economic aspect and favorable climate, Agadir is described by French retirees as a calmer city than other Moroccan urban centers such as Marrakech. The proximity to the sea, the possibility of walking along the beach daily and the feeling of security are aspects that are often valued. The presence of an already consolidated French-speaking community also facilitates adaptation.
Nathalie herself remembers that the idea of changing gained strength after a conversation during a plane trip: “I spoke to a woman on the plane who told us that, with R$1,000 a month, she had a house, food and even money to fly once a month to visit her children. We thought: why not…?”.
The decision also ended up influencing Nathalie’s mother, Jo, who, after becoming a widow, chose to join her daughter, according to the same source. Regarding her daily life now, she says: “I don’t cook here anymore; I go to restaurants every day, something unthinkable in France.”
Formalities and tax framework
Taking up residence in Agadir involves completing some administrative procedures, namely requesting a residence permit valid for one year and renewable. Opening an account at a local bank can also bring additional tax advantages, reinforcing the interest for longer stays.
According to HuffPost, the combination of more controlled expenses, a pleasant climate, a safe environment and easier integration has established Agadir as a consistent option for many French retirees looking for a more financially balanced retirement.
The geographical proximity to Portugal appears as another relevant argument. Agadir has regular air connections from Lisbon and Porto, mainly provided by low-cost companies, such as Ryanair, with flight times of around 1h50 to 2h05.
At certain times of the year, other carriers, including TAP and international companies, offer flights with stops, expanding time and price options. This accessibility facilitates frequent travel and allows you to maintain closer contact with family and friends, which can make the move easier from an emotional point of view.
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