Cost of Living 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," explained one expat.

"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 person in Ecuador.

"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.

"The cost of housing in Ecuador varies depending on the location and size of housing. Generally, housing in larger cities like Quito and Guayaquil tends to be more expensive, while housing in smaller towns and villages is often more affordable. The average cost of housing in Ecuador across all types of locations is typically moderate," said one expat in Ecuador.

"Much lower. We paid cash for our land and to build our house. Electric is about 100 per month. We get 2 trucks of water a month roughly and it equates to about $50/month in water. There are no other bills," wrote a person living in Puerto Cayo.

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

"I am originally from New york City. NYC is expensive but you get little space. Economically, would say the same, but I have much more space both in and outside of the apt. The company pays $2200 monthly plus about $75 in utilities for a 3 bdroom (plus housekeepers room), 5 bath furnished apt. The community has ample green areas, soccer field, tennis court, several bbq grills and villas, basketball court, an adult and kiddie pool, and a ballroom for gatherings. The only thing missing is a gym. Average for Sanborongon is about $1300/month. Urdessa, Ceibos go for about $900, but not as nice," said one in Guayaquil.

"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 who made the move to Cuenca.

"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," remarked one expat in Ecuador.

"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," said one expat living in Ecuador.

"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," mentioned one expat in Ecuador.