Morocco vs South Africa: Which Is Cheaper?
Morocco is the cheaper country overall — about 34% less than South Africa, or roughly $842 versus $1,280 a month for a single person (population-weighted across 5 and 2 cities). A city-centre one-bedroom averages $520 in Morocco against $722 in South Africa. Morocco rates higher on safety (58 vs 32/100). Internet is faster in Morocco (54 vs 48 Mbps). Healthcare scores 65 vs 45/100, favouring South Africa.
Morocco vs South Africa at a glance
| Metric | Morocco | South Africa |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of living / mo | $842 | $1,280 |
| Rent (1BR, centre) / mo | $520 | $722 |
| Safety | 58/100 | 32/100 |
| Internet | 54 Mbps | 48 Mbps |
| Healthcare | 45/100 | 65/100 |
| Walkability | 62/100 | 28/100 |
| English spoken | 16% | 72% |
| Avg temperature | 78°F | 70°F |
| Digital nomad visa | No | No |
Figures are population-weighted averages across 5 cities in Morocco and 2 in South Africa.
Cost range by country
In Morocco, monthly costs run from Fes at $583 up to Casablanca at $935.
In South Africa, monthly costs run from Johannesburg at $1,174 up to Cape Town at $1,412.
Morocco vs South Africa FAQ
Is Morocco or South Africa cheaper to live in?
Morocco is cheaper — about $842 a month for a single person versus $1,280 — roughly 34% less.
Is Morocco or South Africa safer?
Morocco scores higher on safety: 58/100 versus 32/100.
Is Morocco or South Africa better for retirement?
It depends on priorities: Morocco is cheaper ($842 vs $1,280/mo), while South Africa scores higher on healthcare (65 vs 45/100).
Which is better for digital nomads, Morocco or South Africa?
Morocco — it pairs faster internet (54 Mbps) with the lower cost of living ($842/mo), the combination most remote workers want.
Is Morocco or South Africa better to visit?
Morocco is the more budget-friendly trip at roughly $842 a month for day-to-day costs, and it also rates higher on safety (58/100). Both offer plenty of variety — 5 cities in Morocco and 2 in South Africa.
Which should you choose?
On balance, Morocco comes out ahead — it leads on a lower cost of living, cheaper rent, higher safety and is the cheaper of the two at $842/mo.
Choose Morocco for
- a lower cost of living
- cheaper rent
- higher safety
- faster internet
- better walkability
Choose South Africa for
- better healthcare