Cost of Living in Ecuador

"The cost of living in Ecuador varies and depends on what city or region you are located in. Generally speaking, daily expenses can be kept low if you are living outside of the major cities. Groceries, transportation, and rent are generally much cheaper than in other countries. However, prices for imported goods, luxury items, and eating out in restaurants can be more expensive," said one expat in Ecuador.

"I have meet folks who live on $1200/mo including rent. Our lifestyle is more like $1200-1500 and we own our place. That includes eating out, 2 grocery runs/month, beer deliveries and biweekly massages for two," remarked one in Manglaralto.

"Living in Ecuador compared to the United States is likely to be more economical. The cost of living in Ecuador tends to be substantially lower than the United States, offering more value for money on essential items like food, utilities, and transportation. Renting a property in Ecuador can also be a more affordable option, although prices vary depending on the city. Furthermore, Ecuador has no income tax and a lower tax on goods and services, which could mean lower costs of utilities and other purchases," explained one expat.

"I live on about $1000 a month as a single guy. Of course what you spend will depend on your lifestyle," said one person in Cuenca.

"When I first moved here 10 years ago, I was single and rented a 1 bdrm. furnished ground-floor "executive" apartment with a small patio off the bedroom. The "executive" nomer meant that it was completely furnished - including a washing machine on the patio, a fully-equipped small but adequate kitchen with gas stove, and refrig. pots, pans, dishes, etc.; a fully furnished living room with color t.v., cable, and internet connections; a double bed ( with sheets & blankets ) and a large wardrobe; and a bathroom with HOT WATER in the sink and shower! This was in a very nice neighborhood in Machala within easy walking distance stores, buses, and a park to exercise in. My total monthly cost - including 24hr. security, utilities, cable/internet, and the rent was $360! ( $320 for the rent and $40 for the rest ). Believe it or not, the prices haven't gone up that much in all these years," remarked one in Machala.

"You can buy a beautiful 2 brm 2.5 bathroom apartment from about $78,000 upwards. If you are looking for a home with a bit of land around you can go about 15 mins from Cuenca and find the most beautiful homes for $150,000 - $300,000 and of course then you have the ones that are even higher. Depending on what you are looking for. There are beautiful pre-construction apartments selling from $60,000 to a large penthouse which has the most spectacular views for under $200,000. I went and paid our phone and electric bill the other day and for the two of us it was $30 for the month. Our apartment taxes are around $30 per year. Our security apartment and gas fees per month are $63.00," explained one expat.

"Much lower. I bought an apartment for under $30k and I have rented another for just $150 a month," said one person in Quito.

"Rental prices for a nice one-bedroom apartment in Ecuador vary greatly, depending on the city and the amenities included. Typically, prices can range from around $400 to $1,500 per month. For a nice two-bedroom apartment, prices tend to be higher and can range from $500 to $2,000 per month," wrote one expat.

"Note it is typical here to not use chests of drawes, there are built-in hanging closets, built-in drawers, etc. Like in kitchens in US, built-in cabinetry. So for bedroom you need bed and maybe side tables. More of IKEA type units," wrote one expat.

"Rental properties in Ecuador typically feature basic appliances including a stove, refrigerator, washing machine, and sometimes a dishwasher. Depending on the property and the agreement with the landlord, it is possible to find additional amenities such as a microwave, air-conditioning, dryer, and even a water heater amongst other conveniences," commented one expat who moved to Ecuador.