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Moving to Cumbaya, Ecuador | Expat Exchange
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Moving to Cumbaya, Ecuador

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Oct 10, 2024

Summary: Expatriates move to Cumbaya, Ecuador for its temperate climate, stunning natural beauty, and low cost of living. The city is known for its vibrant culture, friendly locals, and excellent infrastructure. Cumbaya is also a great place to learn Spanish, as the city is home to many language schools. Additionally, the city is close to Quito, the capital of Ecuador, making it easy to explore the rest of the country.

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What do I need to know before moving to Cumbaya?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Cumbaya, they said:

"Cumbaya is a small city located in the Tungurahua province in the northeast of the country. It is well known for its beautiful landscape and mild climate. Expats should be aware of Ecuador's relatively high cost of living, which is even more pronounced in larger cities like Quito. Expats should also take the time to research reliable healthcare options as well as housing and transportation services in the area. Additionally, since Cumbaya is situated in the Andes at a high elevation, expats should prepare for the adjustments some people experience when acclimating to a higher altitude. Lastly, expats should prepare to become part of a very welcoming community with strong cultural traditions and an appreciation for Ecuadorian hospitality," remarked one expat in Cumbaya, Ecuador, Ecuador.

How do I find a place to live in Cumbaya?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"Finding a place to live in Cumbaya is a manageable task. There are many real estate websites which list available apartments and houses for rent, such as Lamudi, Metrocuadrado, and Casas de Quito. Additionally, there are local real estate agents and sites that list locally-owned properties for rent, such as Elen Inmobilaria, ManabiRealty, and Petronotas. These websites enable visitors to easily filter properties by location, budget, and other desired features, making it easier to find the perfect place to live in Cumbaya," explained one expat living in Cumbaya, Ecuador, Ecuador.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Cumbaya?

"A typical expat home or apartment in Cumbaya usually features modern amenities and décor in an environment of contemporary comfort. Most homes or apartments have air conditioning, comfortable furniture, and plenty of natural light. Expat homes are typically in secure complexes with manicured green spaces and modern touches. Many homes have a terrace, garden, pool, and outdoor space that provides ample opportunity to relax and enjoy the climate. Common amenities may include a full kitchen, laundry room, and a balcony or rooftop that offers spectacular views of the city and stunning natural scenery," commented one expat who made the move to Cumbaya, Ecuador.

What is the average cost of housing in Cumbaya?

If you are thinking about moving to Cumbaya, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The average cost of housing in Cumbaya, can vary significantly depending on location and size. Generally, Cumbaya is affordable with several options of available apartments, condominiums and houses for rent or for sale. Prices range from relatively inexpensive for small apartments or houses in the outer areas of town, to more costly for larger apartments and houses closer to the center," said one expat who made the move to Cumbaya, Ecuador.

Should I buy or rent a home in Cumbaya?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Cumbaya, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"Buying a home in Cumbaya, is a great way to invest and benefit from the low cost of living in the area. The main advantages of buying a property in Cumbaya, Ecuador, include the potential for capital appreciation, the ability to tailor your home to your needs, and the satisfaction of owning a property in a beautiful setting. On the other hand, some people might prefer to rent a home in Cumbaya, Ecuador, due to its relatively short-term nature and flexibility in choosing an area or home. Renting can save you a lot of money upfront, and in some cases, monthly rent payments can be lower than mortgage payments. Additionally, renting often means no need to commit to a long-term mortgage and thus more freedom to relocate if desired. In the end, the decision to buy or rent a home in Cumbaya, Ecuador, depends largely on your current circumstances, budget, and goals," commented one expat who made the move to Cumbaya, Ecuador.

What should I pack when moving to Cumbaya?

We asked people living in Cumbaya to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:

"Pack light, comfortable layers for Cumbaya's mild climate. Bring plenty of sunscreen and insect repellent for the hot equatorial sun and occasional sand flies. Rainy season usually starts in late January, so bring rain gear such as a raincoat, umbrella, and waterproof boots. Pack comfortable, casual footwear such as sandals, sneakers, and flip-flops. A light jacket and a few sweaters are always useful, as evenings in Cumbaya can be cooler. A good hiking pack and sturdy boots also come in handy for exploring the nearby countryside. Last but not least, be sure to bring any medicines and personal items you will need during your stay," explained one expat living in Cumbaya, Ecuador, Ecuador.

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Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

Ecuador Visas - Law office of Attorney Sara ChacaEcuador Visas - Law office of Attorney Sara Chaca

With Offices in BOTH Ecuador and the US, Ecuador Visas with Attorney Sara Chaca is the No. 1 Visa Law Firm for Your Move! Specializing in Ecuador Residency Visas plus converting from Temporary to Permanent Residency, Containers, Real Estate Closings, Wills and Estate Planning, Driver Licenses, Opening Businesses & Citizenship!
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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Cumbaya?

We asked people in Cumbaya if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:

"In Cumbaya, it is important to be aware of and respectful of the local customs. It is important not to insult or criticize any aspect of the local culture or beliefs, as this may be considered disrespectful and rude. Additionally, try to ensure that you are wearing appropriate clothing that is conservative and doesn't reveal too much skin, as this is not considered appropriate in the culture. It is also considered polite to greet people with a handshake and an appropriate greeting in Spanish if at all possible. Finally, it is impolite to make assumptions about people based on their economic status or to talk about money in a way that is considered inappropriate," said one expat in Cumbaya, Ecuador.

Why do people move to Cumbaya?

When we asked people why foreigners move to Cumbaya, they responded:

"Cumbaya is a popular destination for expats due to its close proximity to Quito, the capital city. The area is known for its stunning natural beauty, with lush green mountains, rolling hills, and a variety of wildlife. The climate is mild and pleasant year-round, making it an ideal place to live. The cost of living is also relatively low, making it an attractive option for those looking to stretch their budget. Additionally, the local culture is welcoming and friendly, making it easy for expats to integrate into the community," said one expat living in Cumbaya, Ecuador.

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How are healthcare services Cumbaya?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Cumbaya, they replied:

"Cumbaya offers a variety of healthcare services to its residents. The public health system is managed by the Ministry of Public Health and provides primary care services, including preventive care, diagnosis, and treatment of common illnesses. Private healthcare facilities are also available, offering a range of services from general practice to specialized care. Additionally, there are several hospitals in the area, providing emergency care, surgery, and other specialized services. The local community also has access to a number of pharmacies, providing medications and other health-related products," said one expat.

What are medical services in Cumbaya like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Cumbaya, they replied:

"Cumbaya offers a variety of medical services to its residents. The city has several hospitals and clinics that provide a range of services, including general medical care, emergency services, and specialized care. The hospitals and clinics are staffed by experienced and qualified medical professionals, and many offer modern medical equipment and technology. Additionally, Cumbaya has a number of pharmacies that provide prescription medications and over-the-counter remedies. The city also has a number of alternative health care providers, such as homeopaths, naturopaths, and acupuncturists," said one expat living in Cumbaya, Ecuador.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

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