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Retire in Cuenca, Ecuador | Expat Exchange
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El Puente Roto (Broken Bridge) in Cuenca, Ecuador

Retire in Cuenca, Ecuador

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Apr 06, 2023

Summary: Cuenca, Ecuador is a popular destination for retirees due to its low cost of living, beautiful scenery, and pleasant climate. There are several retirement communities in Cuenca, offering a variety of amenities such as swimming pools, fitness centers, and social activities. The cost of a nice two bedroom home in Cuenca is typically around $50,000 USD, while a nice three bedroom home can cost around $70,000 USD. The weather in Cuenca is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the mid-70s Fahrenheit.

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What is it like to retire in Cuenca?

"Life for a retiree in Cuenca and its surroundings is a vibrant one. Expats from all over the world come to take advantage of the affordable cost of living. Cuenca is filled with colonial churches, art galleries, and colorful markets, making it a great cultural destination for retirees. For those looking for outdoor recreation, there are plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and visiting nearby sites like Cajas National Park or the Inca ruins of Ingapirca. Additionally, visitors can take a stroll through historical parks and take in the natural beauty of mountainous rivers and waterfalls. When the evening arrives, retirees can enjoy a lively nightlife with a variety of restaurants, bars, and nightclubs," said a person in Cuenca, Ecuador.

"Many expat activities in Cuenca and great affordable restaurants. Beautiful scenery and lots of great places to visit in the Andes and the beaches," remarked one retiree in Cuenca.

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What advice do overseas retirees have for others considering retiring abroad?

"Retiring abroad can be a very rewarding experience and Cuenca is an ideal choice for many retirees. We recommend that you do your research and get to know the area before making any major decisions. Talk to other expats and be sure to understand the local culture and language. Make sure to find a reputable real estate agent and attorney when buying property or signing any contracts. Factor in the cost of living, the climate, and any healthcare and social security benefits before making a final decision. Finally, be sure to enjoy all the beauty and culture that Cuenca has to offer once you get here," said a retiree who moved to Cuenca, Ecuador, Ecuador.

"It is not for everyone, if you have not traveled outside your country you should check it out before moving. Many expats move here and after 6 months to a year many go back to the US! Many might miss family or just can't adjust to a non- English speaking country. My blog offers a good idea of live here: google: AAA Living in Cuenca or my book Why Ecuador for me is available on kindle through amazon.com," said one retiree in Cuenca.

What are the most challenging aspects of retiring in Cuenca?

"Mail service sucks, food quality is good, but not as spicy as I would like. Can't find Sriracha so I have to make my own," commented one retiree living in Cuenca, Ecuador.

"One of the most challenging aspects of retiring in Cuenca is the language barrier. Most of the locals speak Spanish, so anyone relocating to the area who does not already speak Spanish may struggle to communicate with people around them. Additionally, the cost of living can be significantly high in comparison to other parts of Ecuador, making it difficult to adjust to a retirement budget. Safety is also a concern in Cuenca, and it is important to take extra precautions when living abroad. Lastly, healthcare can be a challenge for retirees in Cuenca, as it is relatively limited compared to the standards of some other countries," explained one retiree living in Cuenca, Ecuador.

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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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Ecuador 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 are the most rewarding aspects of retiring in Cuenca?

"Living in Cuenca can be a highly rewarding experience. The city has a rich cultural heritage, beautiful colonial architecture, and a mild climate all year round. The cost of living is also very low, so it's easy to enjoy all the amenities of retirement with a limited budget. People are also friendly and welcoming, giving you a strong sense of community when you retire here. Cuenca also offers plenty of outdoor activities and natural attractions to explore, so there is always something new and exciting to discover," remarked one retiree in Cuenca, Ecuador.

"Making friends with Ecuadorians and the great choice of year around fresh vegetables and fruits," said a retiree who moved to Cuenca, Ecuador.

What are healthcare services like in Cuenca?

We asked retirees if they have access to good medical care in Cuenca. They wrote:

"Healthcare services in Cuenca are readily available and very affordable. Cuenca is home to several large hospitals and numerous smaller clinics that provide a wide variety of healthcare services ranging from routine checkups to more specialized treatments. The city also boasts many experienced specialists, including doctors, nurses and other medical personnel, providing excellent care to its inhabitants. Cuenca's health system is heavily supported by the local government which ensures that medical services are affordable for citizens. In addition to the services available in the city, the Ecuadorian government sponsors medical tourism packages that provide the same quality of care found in the hospitals in Cuenca but with lighter tax systems," said a retiree who moved to Cuenca, Ecuador, Ecuador.

"Your choice of the free hospital or higher cost facilities. Also qualify for the Social Security hospital here 100% coverage for $72 a month," said one retiree in Cuenca.

How do I meet people in Cuenca?

When we asked people living in Cuenca about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"There are now two expat groups which meet in Cuenca each Friday night at 5 p.m. One is at Zoes and the other at the Ecualyptus. From here you can meet and greet other expats and then extend you network," explained a retiree in Cuenca.

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What is life like in Cuenca?

When we asked people living in Cuenca what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Cuenca is generally quite pleasant. The city is known for its colonial architecture, vibrant culture, and friendly locals. The cost of living is low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their budget. The city is also well-connected, with reliable internet and plenty of coworking spaces. The climate is mild year-round, with temperatures rarely exceeding 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Cuenca is a great place to explore, with plenty of outdoor activities, markets, and restaurants to enjoy," said one retiree in living in Cuenca, Ecuador.

"Cuenca has a lot going for it as far as the arts. There are always free concerts that you can attend in the city. Art festivals, Choirs, Orchestras you name it. This is a very family oriented society and life revolves around the family. My local business colleagues are always spending time with their families on the weekends and we should learn from them. They have a wonderful network of family around them. Religious events are a time for parades, church and other activities," explained a retiree in Cuenca.

"For Ecuadorians, life revolves around family. Expats are very social here, though there aren't too many of us. Most expats who are in Cuenca are adventurous, love to explore the country, and are focused pretty much on living life," explained one retiree living in Cuenca.

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Ecuador 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!

Learn MoreConnect

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

Ecuador 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!

Learn MoreConnect

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

What do I need to know before retiring in Cuenca?

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

"Before retiring in Cuenca, expats should consider the cost of living and the local economy. Cuenca is known for its pleasant climate, affordability and a range of activities, so it is important to understand the local culture and language. Healthcare is generally considered to be of high-quality and available at a fraction of the cost that one may pay in their home country. Furthermore, it may be helpful to look into the safety and security situation in Cuenca prior to retiring in the city," explained a retiree in Cuenca, Ecuador.

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What type of recreational activities are there in Cuenca?

"Cuenca offers a variety of recreational facilities for visitors and locals alike. The Parque de la Madre is a large park located in the center of the city, offering a variety of activities such as walking trails, playgrounds, and a lake. The Parque de la Madre also hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year. The Parque de las Iguanas is another popular park in Cuenca, located near the Tomebamba River. This park features a variety of walking trails, playgrounds, and a large lake. The Parque de las Iguanas also hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year. The Parque de las Palomas is a large park located in the south of the city, offering a variety of activities such as walking trails, playgrounds, and a lake. The Parque de las Palomas also hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year. The Parque de la Ciudad is a large park located in the north of the city, offering a variety of activities such as walking trails, playgrounds, and a lake. The Parque de la Ciudad also hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year. Cuenca also offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and horseback riding. There are also a number of golf courses located in and around the city," wrote one person in Cuenca.

Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Cuenca?

"Cuenca is a great place for expats to buy groceries and do other shopping. There are several large supermarkets, such as Supermaxi, Supermaxi Express, and La Tienda, which offer a wide variety of products. Additionally, there are many smaller stores, such as El Vergel, La Casa de la Fruta, and La Casa de la Carne, which specialize in fresh produce, meats, and other items. For those looking for more unique items, there are also several artisan markets, such as the Mercado 10 de Agosto and the Mercado 9 de Octubre, where one can find handmade goods and local specialties. Finally, there are several malls, such as Mall del Rio and Mall del Sol, which offer a variety of stores and restaurants," said one member in Cuenca.

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.

El Puente Roto (Broken Bridge) in Cuenca, Ecuador

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Ecuador Visas with Attorney Sara Chaca is the No. 1 Visa Law Firm for Your Move!
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