Cost Comparison 2025

Cape TownvsCasablanca

South Africa
Morocco

Overall

šŸ’°

-16.0%

Cape Town is 16.0%cheaper

Rent

šŸ 

-37.1%

Housing is 37.1% lower

Dining

šŸ½ļø

-24.0%

Restaurants 24.0% cheaper

Groceries

šŸ›’

-11.1%

Food shopping 11.1% less

Comparing the cost of living between Cape Town, South Africa and Casablanca, Morocco reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Cape Town is more affordable than Casablanca by approximately 16.0%. This comparison covers essential living expenses including housing, food, transportation, and utilities, providing you with a complete picture of what to expect financially in each city.

Key Cost Differences

Housing costs in Cape Town are higher than in Casablanca by 59%. A one-bedroom apartment in Cape Town's city center costs around ZARĀ 12,000, while the same in Casablanca is approximately MADĀ 6,000.

Dining out in Cape Town is notably more expensive compared to Casablanca. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs ZARĀ 150 in Cape Town versus MADĀ 50 in Casablanca.

Public transportation in Cape Town is more expensive, with monthly passes at ZARĀ 800 compared to MADĀ 300 in Casablanca.

Purchasing power in Cape Town is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Casablanca.

Grocery shopping in Cape Town is more expensive by approximately 13%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show higher prices across the board.

Monthly Budget Breakdown

When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Cape Town can expect to spend approximately ZARĀ 5,890 per month (excluding rent), while in Casablanca, the same lifestyle would cost around MADĀ 2,364. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about ZARĀ 20,615 monthly in Cape Town versus MADĀ 8,274 in Casablanca. These estimates include groceries, dining out, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, providing a realistic picture of day-to-day living costs in each city.

Detailed Cost Comparison

Item
Cape Town, South Africa
Casablanca, Morocco

šŸ  Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)

1BR City Center
ZARĀ 12,000
MADĀ 6,000
1BR Outside Center
ZARĀ 8,000
MADĀ 3,500
3BR City Center
ZARĀ 25,000
MADĀ 12,000

šŸ½ļø Food & Dining

Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant
ZARĀ 150
MADĀ 50
Meal for 2, Mid-range Restaurant
ZARĀ 700
MADĀ 250
Cappuccino
ZARĀ 35
MADĀ 25
Domestic Beer (0.5L)
ZARĀ 35
MADĀ 35

šŸ›’ Groceries

Milk (1L)
ZARĀ 25
MADĀ 8
Bread (500g)
ZARĀ 15
MADĀ 4
Eggs (12)
ZARĀ 35
MADĀ 15
Cheese (1kg)
ZARĀ 120
MADĀ 70

🚌 Transportation

One-way Ticket
ZARĀ 20
MADĀ 6
Monthly Pass
ZARĀ 800
MADĀ 300
Taxi Start
ZARĀ 20
MADĀ 10
Gasoline (1L)
ZARĀ 23
MADĀ 12

šŸ’” Utilities & Internet

Basic Utilities (85m²)
ZARĀ 1,500
MADĀ 500
Internet (60 Mbps)
ZARĀ 800
MADĀ 300
Mobile Minute
ZARĀ 2
MADĀ 2

Tips for Moving Between Cities

For those considering a move from Casablanca to Cape Town, the cost savings can be substantial, particularly in housing and daily expenses. However, it's important to factor in salary differences and job opportunities. Conversely, moving from Cape Town to Casablanca requires careful financial planning. Consider negotiating salary adjustments that reflect the higher cost of living, and research neighborhoods outside the city center for more affordable housing options while maintaining reasonable commute times.

Quality of Life Indices

Cape Town

Cost of Living Index50
Rent Index35
Purchasing Power Index60

Casablanca

Cost of Living Index42
Rent Index22
Purchasing Power Index40

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Cape Town more expensive than Casablanca?

No, Cape Town is approximately 16.0% cheaper than Casablanca. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.

How much salary do I need in Cape Town compared to Casablanca?

To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 86% of your Casablanca salary when living in Cape Town. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Casablanca, you'd need about $43,103 in Cape Town for a comparable lifestyle.

What are the biggest cost differences between Cape Town and Casablanca?

The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 59%, making it a major factor in your budget planning. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.

Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?

Cape Town offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Cape Town provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Cape Town if you prioritize earning potential, or Casablanca for affordability.

What's a reasonable monthly budget for Cape Town vs Casablanca?

In Cape Town, a single person needs approximately ZARĀ 13,890 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about ZARĀ 38,615. In Casablanca, these figures are MADĀ 5,864 for singles and MADĀ 15,274 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.

The cost of living comparison between Cape Town and Casablanca in 2025 shows notable differences across various expense categories. Whether you're planning a relocation for work, considering retirement options, or simply curious about living costs, understanding these differences is crucial for making informed financial decisions.

Need to calculate salary equivalence?

Find out how much you need to earn in Casablanca to maintain your lifestyle from Cape Town

Calculate Salary Equivalence

Last updated: 2025-01-28 • Data sourced from multiple providers