French Retirees Flock to Agadir, Drawn by Sun and Low Cost of Living

Morocco is rolling out the red carpet for Western retirees. Tax exemption, accessible by simply opening a local bank account, is a major asset. The cost of living, significantly lower than in mainland France, completes the convincing argument for those considering leaving. A couple interviewed by TF1 Info say they pay a rent of 800 euros for a house, 50 euros for electricity and 50 dirhams (about 5 euros) for water per month. With a pension of 2,800 euros, living comfortably becomes child’s play.

Agadir also offers very competitive prices on food products. "With ten euros, we have fruits and vegetables for the week, for two people," testifies a retiree. The opportunity to live better with less is pushing many French people to take the plunge. "A lady on the plane told us that with 1,000 euros a month, she had housing, ate and could even take the plane once a month to see her children," recounts a conquered couple.

Despite this idyllic picture, a shadow hangs over Agadir: climate change. While the sun shines 340 days a year, episodes of drought and scorching temperatures, with peaks of 50 degrees recorded in 2023, are becoming more and more frequent. Intensive agriculture, which supplies European markets with cheap fruits and vegetables, is exacerbating the situation by depleting water reserves. An environmental challenge that, for now, does not seem to curb the enthusiasm of retirees for this sunny destination.