As France experiences its third heatwave of the year, an increasing number of retirees are seeking refuge in Morocco. Just across the Mediterranean, temperatures hover between 28°C and 32°C during the day. Although the climate remains warm, the refreshing Atlantic breeze alleviates the heat, making summer days significantly more enjoyable. This delightful climate and lifestyle have led many French retirees to consider a permanent move. As detailed by Grazia, "this seaside resort is increasingly attracting French seniors in search of a pleasant, secure, and accessible living environment."
The New Life of French Retirees in Agadir, Morocco
Morocco has emerged as the third most popular country for French retirees seeking residence abroad. The French television magazine Sept à Huit featured a segment on these expatriates who have discovered their paradise just three hours by plane from Paris, with approximately 4,000 of them residing in Agadir alone. Known for its nearly 340 days of sunshine each year, the Agadir region, nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Atlas Mountains, has become one of Morocco's major tourist hubs. Just twenty minutes north lies Taghazout Bay, a former fishing village turned premium surf destination that has evolved into a luxurious resort area, featuring upscale hotels and a plethora of housing options, all under the royal initiative of Morocco’s king.
The appeal of Agadir lies not only in its climate but also in its affordability, which plays a significant role in attracting retirees. For instance, a couple from Marseille, enjoying a monthly pension of €2,800, rents a spacious home that includes a dining room, two bedrooms, a bathroom, a patio, and a 100 square meter garden for just 8,000 dirhams per month (approximately €800). Their electricity costs are around 500 dirhams monthly (about €50), and water expenses are only 50 dirhams. This demonstrates that even retirees with modest pensions can consider relocating to Morocco since some expatriates claim to live comfortably on a budget of around €1,000 per month, covering both housing and food. Additionally, French retirees residing in Morocco can take advantage of significant tax benefits provided by Moroccan authorities, provided they establish a local bank account.
A Unique Quality of Life in Agadir
Many retirees, like a couple of former sales agents in the wood industry, have settled in Morocco to fully enjoy their modest pensions. They were inspired to relocate after speaking with a fellow traveler on a flight who mentioned that she managed to live on €1,000 per month, covering rent, food, and even affording monthly flights to visit her children. "Why not?" they thought. Prior to their permanent move in 2014, they explored the country extensively, concluding that Agadir offers a unique quality of life absent in other Moroccan cities. As the husband aptly summarizes, "There is a sweetness of life in Agadir that you don't find in other cities in Morocco."
As reported by mariefrance.fr.
