Settat, Morocco, sits at an elevation of 245 meters above sea level in the country's interior, about 41 kilometers from Casablanca's Mohammed V International Airport (CMN). The city enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers from June to September and mild, wet winters from December to February, offering moderate temperatures year-round. With a population of 172,000, the expat community is very few, and those who do settle here typically choose the popular expat neighborhood of Settat Center.
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🏚️ Cost of Living
💰 Budgets and Costs
$328/mo, one person, rent included
Selected: budget lifestyle
Settat at the budget tier comes to about $328 a month for one adult, with $151 of that going to rent. Beyond rent the estimate covers $79.00 on groceries, $12.00 on dining out, $15.00 on entertainment and lifestyle, $61.00 on utilities and connectivity and $10.00 on transport.
Rent
$151/mo
1BR outside the centre
Groceries
$79.00/mo
75% of mid-range grocery spend
Dining out
$12.00/mo
4 inexpensive meals
Entertainment & lifestyle
$15.00/mo
1 cinema trip, 8 cappuccinos
Utilities & connectivity
$61.00/mo
utilities, mobile, internet
Transport
$10.00/mo
Monthly pass
Budgets (excl. rent)
Single person$177/mo
Excludes rent. The total above is all-in, rent included.
$401/mo, one person, rent included
Selected: mid-range lifestyle
Settat at the mid-range tier comes to about $401 a month for one adult, with $151 of that going to rent. Beyond rent the estimate covers $105 on groceries, $30.00 on dining out, $44.00 on entertainment and lifestyle, $61.00 on utilities and connectivity and $10.00 on transport.
Rent
$151/mo
1BR outside the centre
Groceries
$105/mo
Staples basket scaled to a full month
Dining out
$30.00/mo
10 inexpensive meals
Entertainment & lifestyle
$44.00/mo
gym, 2 cinema trips, 12 cappuccinos
Utilities & connectivity
$61.00/mo
utilities, mobile, internet
Transport
$10.00/mo
Monthly pass
Budgets (excl. rent)
Single person$250/mo
Excludes rent. The total above is all-in, rent included.
$594/mo, one person, rent included
Selected: comfortable lifestyle
Settat at the comfortable tier comes to about $594 a month for one adult, with $201 of that going to rent. Beyond rent the estimate covers $147 on groceries, $109 on dining out, $66.00 on entertainment and lifestyle, $61.00 on utilities and connectivity and $10.00 on transport.
Rent
$201/mo
1BR in the centre
Groceries
$147/mo
140% of mid-range grocery spend
Dining out
$109/mo
6 inexpensive meals + 6 mid-range meals
Entertainment & lifestyle
$66.00/mo
gym, 4 cinema trips, 20 cappuccinos
Utilities & connectivity
$61.00/mo
utilities, mobile, internet
Transport
$10.00/mo
Monthly pass
Budgets (excl. rent)
Single person$393/mo
Excludes rent. The total above is all-in, rent included.
Estimates for one adult, built from this city's average prices and the usage shown for each tier. Your spending will differ with how often you eat out and where you live.
A 1BR in the center runs about $200.99/mo. If your income is in another currency, bank FX fees add up. A multi-currency account can cut that cost.
Settat is a moderately safe Moroccan city with a moderate crime index, suitable for expats willing to exercise standard precautions. Petty theft, pickpocketing in crowded markets, and occasional scams targeting foreigners are the primary concerns; violent crime against expats is uncommon. Avoid displaying valuables, stay alert in the medina and bus stations, and use registered taxis or ride-sharing apps. The city lacks the tourist infrastructure of Marrakech or Fez, meaning fewer organized scams but also fewer expat support networks. Overall, it's a reasonable choice for remote workers or retirees seeking an authentic Moroccan experience with manageable safety risks.
Settat has a safety index of 55/100. Petty theft and lost belongings are the most common problems for newcomers. Compare travel insurance before you go.
Settat has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers (June-September) and mild, wet winters (December-February), making it pleasant for expats seeking moderate temperatures year-round.
💻 Digital Nomad
Avg Internet Speed
17.2 Mbps
Internet (monthly)
$36/mo
Coworking Availability
None
Coworking Spaces Nearby
0
Digital Nomad Score
44/100
Community Notes
Settat is an agricultural hub with limited tech infrastructure for digital nomads.
Regus offers a reliable coworking option in Settat, providing a professional environment with standard amenities like high-speed internet and meeting rooms. Located in a central business area, it's a convenient choice for expats seeking a familiar and structured workspace.
This coworking space offers a more local and community-focused vibe. Located in the heart of Settat, it provides a budget-friendly option with essential amenities, making it suitable for digital nomads looking to immerse themselves in the local culture.
See how Settat's digital nomad life compares with Demnate
🧳 Expat Life
English Proficiency
Limited
Expat Community
Very Few
Top Neighborhoods
Settat Center
Banks Nearby
20
ATMs Nearby
0
Expat Life Notes
Settat is a quiet agricultural university town. Foreign presence is almost purely academic.
Pros
✓ Affordable
✓ Safe
✓ Young student energy
Cons
✗ Isolated from main hubs
✗ Minimal social hubs for foreigners
✗ English not widely used
🏘️ Neighborhoods in Settat
Areas of Settat that expats often consider.
Conditions can change from one block to the next, and these descriptions are general guides, not safety assessments. Before choosing where to stay or live, check current travel advisories, talk to people who live there, and visit in person if you can.
Centre Ville (City Center)
Bustling commercial and administrative
The heart of Settat, offering easy access to shops, restaurants, and government offices. While convenient, it can be noisy and crowded. Many locals reside here, and English is not widely spoken, though French is common.
Hay Mohammadi
Residential, family-oriented, affordable
A more affordable residential area, popular with families. It's further from the city center, requiring reliance on taxis or buses. Offers a more authentic Moroccan experience, but less English is spoken.
Quartier Administratif
Modern, quiet, government offices
Home to many government buildings and newer apartments. Generally quieter than the city center. Some English may be spoken due to the presence of international organizations, but French is more prevalent.
Cité Universitaire
Student-focused, lively, budget-friendly
Primarily a student area surrounding the university. Offers the most affordable rental options. Expect a younger, more energetic atmosphere, but less English spoken and potentially more noise.
Al Massira
Modern residential, growing area
A newer residential development with modern apartments. It's further from the city center but offers a more comfortable living environment. Less established amenities compared to older neighborhoods.
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Could living/working in Settat cut years off your work life?
With a 1-bedroom in the center at $201/mo, your FIRE number here might be much lower than you think.
Settat has a population of approximately 171,556 people.
A single person can expect to spend around $502 per month in Settat, including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $201/month.
The nearest airport to Settat is CMN, approximately 41.2km away.
Settat is considered moderate in terms of safety, with a safety index of 55.0. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.
Settat has an average internet speed of 17.2 Mbps. It is not yet considered a well-established digital nomad destination.
Basic Arabic or French is essential for daily life. English is rare outside the university. Most locals speak Darija (Moroccan Arabic) and Berber, with French used in government offices and some businesses. Learning basic Arabic phrases will significantly improve your experience.
Limited to university teaching positions, agricultural consulting, or starting your own business. The local economy focuses on farming and trade, with few international companies. Most expat employment comes through Hassan 1er University or agricultural development projects.
Settat has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Expect temperatures to soar in July and August, while December and January can bring cooler temperatures and occasional rain. Pack accordingly for both extremes if you plan to stay long-term.
Generally, Settat is a safe city, but like any urban area, petty crime can occur. It's wise to be cautious in crowded markets and avoid walking alone late at night in poorly lit areas. Ask locals for specific advice on areas to be more aware of.
Internet connectivity in Settat is generally reliable for remote work, with decent speeds available through local providers like Maroc Telecom. While not as fast as some major European cities, it's sufficient for video calls, browsing, and most online tasks. Consider a backup mobile data plan for added security.
US citizens can enter Morocco visa-free for tourism for up to 90 days. For longer stays, you'll need to apply for a residency permit (Carte de Séjour) through the local authorities, typically based on proof of sufficient income or investment. Consult the Moroccan consulate in the US for the most up-to-date requirements.
Healthcare in Settat is adequate, with both public and private options available. While some doctors may have limited English proficiency, you can find English-speaking physicians in larger private clinics. It's advisable to have international health insurance for comprehensive coverage.
Settat has a network of buses and taxis that are relatively inexpensive. Buses are the most common form of public transport, while taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street. Consider using ride-hailing apps for convenience and price transparency.
While Settat doesn't have a large number of dedicated coworking spaces, some cafes offer a comfortable environment for remote work. Look for cafes with reliable Wi-Fi and power outlets, especially in the city center. Check local Facebook groups for recommendations.
As a US citizen, you're required to file US taxes even while living abroad. The Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE) can help you exclude a certain amount of your foreign-earned income from US taxes. Also, be aware of FBAR reporting requirements for foreign bank accounts.
Several options exist for international money transfers, including traditional bank transfers, online platforms like Wise (formerly TransferWise), and remittance services like Western Union. Compare fees and exchange rates to find the most cost-effective method. Opening a local bank account can also simplify transactions.
Settat offers a slower, more relaxed pace of life compared to many cities in the US. Things tend to move at a more leisurely speed, and people prioritize relationships and community. Be prepared to adjust to a different rhythm and embrace the local culture.
Settat has a smaller expat community compared to larger Moroccan cities like Marrakech or Casablanca. However, you can connect with other expats through online forums, social media groups, and local events. Networking with other expats can provide valuable support and insights.
Retiring comfortably in Settat is very achievable on a modest budget. A single person could live well on $1200-$1800 USD per month, covering rent, food, transportation, and leisure activities. Couples might need $2000-$2800 USD for a similar lifestyle.
While Settat itself might not be a major investment hub, Morocco offers various investment opportunities, including real estate, renewable energy, and tourism. Consult with a financial advisor familiar with Moroccan regulations and investment options before making any decisions. Research local business opportunities as well.
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