The search for destinations outside Europe to live in retirement has been increasing among many French retirees, especially among those who wish to find more tranquility, a sunny climate and a cost of living compatible with the value of their pension. The climate, monthly expenses and the quality of daily life are some of the aspects that matter most in this choice.
In this scenario, Agadir, in the south of Morocco, is gaining ground among the options considered by French retirees. According to , the city is attracting more and more people looking for an alternative to commonly chosen destinations, including Spain, Portugal and Senegal.
The rise in the cost of living in France, particularly in the prices of housing and essential products, has led many retirees to consider a permanent move or a stay for several months during the year. Agadir stands out for having lower expenses, mild temperatures and a routine closely linked to the sea.
With around 300 days of sunshine a year and pleasant temperatures during most seasons, the city favors an outdoor life that is not always possible in Europe during winter. One of the retirees cited by the same publication summarizes this advantage: “We live outdoors almost all year round; it’s good for our spirits and health.”
Much lower cost of living
The financial component is cited as one of the main reasons for choosing this Moroccan city. According to several testimonies, it is possible to pay rent, food and other current expenses with a monthly budget of between 900 and 1,000 euros, without giving up a level of comfort that would be more difficult to achieve in France.
Nathalie and Yves, originally from Marseille, decided to move to Agadir in 2014. The couple told HuffPost that their current monthly expenses correspond to around half of the amounts they incurred in French territory, having managed to rent a spacious house, with a garden, for approximately 800 euros per month.
Nathalie also highlights the prices charged in local markets, where fresh food is considerably cheaper. “When I go to the Agadir souk, I spend less than ten euros on fruit and vegetables, enough for a week.” For many retirees, this difference in everyday purchases ends up having a decisive impact on their choice of destination.
More serenity and easier integration
In addition to the climate and cost of living, Agadir is presented as a quieter city than other important urban centers in Morocco, namely Marrakech. The proximity to the beach, walks along the ocean and the feeling of security are among the aspects most appreciated by those who decide to settle in this area.
The existence of a well-established French-speaking community also helps to facilitate adaptation. For French retirees, the possibility of communicating in their language and resorting to informal support networks makes the move less demanding and simplifies integration into local life, according to the source cited above.
The idea of living in Agadir began to take shape for Nathalie after a conversation during a plane trip. “I spoke to a woman on the plane who told us that, with 1,000 euros a month, she had a house, food and even money to fly once a month to visit her children. We thought: why not…?”
This change would still end up influencing Jo, Nathalie’s mother, who decided to join her daughter after becoming a widow, according to the same publication. The retiree describes a routine that she would hardly be able to maintain in France: “I don’t cook here anymore; I go to restaurants every day, something unthinkable in France.”
Formalities and tax framework
A move to Agadir requires, however, compliance with some administrative procedures. Anyone wishing to stay in the country for an extended period must apply for a residence permit, initially valid for one year and subject to renewal.
Opening a bank account at a local institution may also provide tax benefits, depending on the individual situation of each retiree. According to HuffPost, the combination of more affordable prices, mild climate, safety and ease of adaptation has contributed to reinforcing interest in the city.
Agadir’s proximity to Portugal is also a relevant factor. The city has, at different times of the year, air connections between Lisbon and Porto, some of which are operated by low-cost companies, such as Ryanair.
The duration of direct flights is usually between 1h50 and 2h05, allowing you to reach the Moroccan city in a short time. Depending on the season and available supply, there may also be stopover alternatives provided by other carriers.
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