Quito, Ecuador
Last updated on Mar 10, 2023
Summary: The population of Quito is 2.7 million people. Quito is a vibrant city with a rich culture and history. Expats love the city's colonial architecture, its friendly people, and its proximity to the Andes Mountains. The weather in Quito is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the mid-70s Fahrenheit (12-24 Celsius). The average cost of living in Quito for an expat is around $1,500 USD per month. The cost of a one bedroom apartment is around $400-600 USD per month, and a two bedroom apartment is around $600-800 USD per month.
What do I need to know about living in Quito?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Quito, they said:
"Before retiring in Quito, expats should become familiar with the different neighborhoods, research the cost of living, check visa and residency requirements, find out what healthcare providers and services are available, and get a good understanding of local language, customs, and culture. It is also important to know the basics of Ecuadorian law, taxes and banking regulations. Additionally, expats should look into any social and security programs offered by the government and make sure they are aware of any restrictions on retirees," commented one expat who made the move to Quito, Ecuador.
"Be prepared for pollution and robbery problems. Quito also has a large traffic issue and makes it hard to get around at busy hours of the day. The altitude is sometimes hard for people with asthma or the elderly. In general, it's still a small city and has a friendly welcoming attitude. It's easy to get away on weekends and go to the mountains for fresh air. The night life is fun and exciting in the mariscal area. I would research the city really well before renting or buying. Find the safer neighborhoods like Quito, Tenis or Gonzalez Suarez where there are many other expats," remarked one expat living in Quito, Ecuador.
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What do I need to know before moving to Quito?
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About the Author
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.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Quito?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Quito?
- Will I be able to find a job in Quito?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do expats in Quito appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Quito?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Quito accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Quito like?
- How are healthcare services in Quito?
- What are medical services in Quito like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Quito?
- What are emergency services like in Quito?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Quito?
- How are local medical facilities in Quito?
- As a foreigner living in Quito, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?