Ouarzazate, Morocco
Capital City

Follows Morocco Residency Rules. Check Digital Nomad & Retiree Pathways →
Est. Monthly Cost (1 Person)
$740
Retiree Score
37.0
Safety Index
76.2
Healthcare
3 facilities

With a population of just 79,218, Ouarzazate is a small city in south-central Morocco that has become a major hub for the global film industry. While the city's desert landscapes and historical architecture have made it an attractive filming location, the reality for residents is quite different. The bureaucracy is a persistent headache, and the extreme climate - scorching hot summers and bitterly cold winters - can be a significant challenge.

That said, Ouarzazate does offer some advantages for those looking to live abroad. Its status as a major film production center means there is a steady stream of international workers and infrastructure to support them. And the city's strategic location makes it a convenient jumping-off point for exploring Morocco's stunning southern regions.

Overall, Ouarzazate is best suited for adventurous types who can tolerate a bit of red tape and extreme weather in exchange for unique cultural immersion and easy access to the country's natural wonders.

Can I afford Ouarzazate?

$

Ouarzazate

You could save

2,260/mo

Savings Rate75%

Monthly Costs

Rent $300
Living (Country Average Adjusted)$440

Attractiveness Scores

FIRE Score
(i)
75/100
Retiree Score
(i)
37/100
Lifestyle Score
(i)
50/100
💻Nomad Score
(i)
50/100
Meets Morocco Digital Nomad Visa Income Rule.
76
Safety
3
Healthcare
100
Walkability
80
Nomad

Grocery Basket

Milk (1L) $1
Bread (loaf) *$1
Eggs (12) $2
Rice (1kg) *$1
Chicken (1kg) *$3

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Eating Out

Meal (Inexpensive) *$4
Meal (Mid-range) $48
Cappuccino $1
Water (0.33L) *$0

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Utilities & Lifestyle

Utilities (mo) $37
Mobile Plan (mo) $5
Gym (mo) *$15
Cinema Ticket $4

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Housing

1BR Center (mo) $180
1BR Outside (mo) *$127
3BR Center (mo) $348
3BR Outside (mo) *$223

* Estimated based on regional averages.

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Limited
Expat Community
Small
Top Neighborhoods
Ville Nouvelle
Best For
film professionals, adventurous travelers

Expat Life Notes

The gateway to the Sahara and a major film production hub. Quiet and dry.

Pros

  • Cinematic scenery
  • Very safe
  • Unique culture

Cons

  • Extreme heat
  • Isolated
  • Requires French or Arabic

🌐 Infrastructure & Lifestyle

Avg Internet
Temperature
Annual Rainfall
107 mm
Coworking Spaces
Best Months to Visit
May, Jun, Jul, Aug

Also Consider

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Ouarzazate

Click any question to expand the answer.

Ouarzazate has a population of approximately 79,218 people.

A single person can expect to spend around $750 per month in Ouarzazate, including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $300/month.

The nearest airport to Ouarzazate is OZZ, approximately 3km away.

Ouarzazate is considered relatively safe, with a safety index of 76.2. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.

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