Moving to Ecuador

"Come and visit for preliminary look, choose several locations for example beach, mountains and jungle. Try to visit a city and small town in each area, think also of some tourist attractions to get a flavor of the country. Return for another more focused visit to the vibe (example beach) that catches your interest....second visit, focus on areas large and small from your research that sound interesting. If you find a location that you like, plan to come for extended stay and RENT there. Do not look to purchase until you have lived here awhile, LIVED not visited. It is very different to live here rather than visit. Note as far as purchasing property: it is not like the USA, no realtor website with most of the properties in the area featured so can be tedious looking. No licensed inspectors so you are on your own to determine potential problems. Many if not most built "informally" i.e. not to codes. Also, if you make a mistake and decide to go back, properties here do not sell fast, you could be invested for years waiting for a buyer. Financing is difficult to obtain, mortgage interest rates are high (can be 10+%) and large down payments required for Ecuadorian buyers," remarked one expat in Ecuador.

"Your comfortability level with the language will also be a determinative factor. Most locals DO NOT speak English - especially, in those wonderful areas off the tourist track that don't particularly cater to expatriates. I've lived in such an area - Machala - on the far southern coast for the past 1o years. It was my choice to live apart from the expat communities in other parts of the country BUT, I had been to Ecuador several times before moving here and knew what I wanted, if not exactly where, and was proficient enough in Spanish to get along without any major problems. The pros of living in a non-tourist/expat locale are that the cost of living is much cheaper, you will have greater independence, and the process of assimilation is much faster. The cons are that you might not have all the big city diversions and amenities, and people are a bit shy and slower to accept you but once they do, you'll have life-long friends. Come visit, travel, and decide ... then if it's right, by all means, relocate," said one expat in Machala.

"Pick out 2 or 3 places and rent to live in each for 2 to 3 months. See if you really like the area, the locals, the activities, etc. Do not start looking for a house to buy until you are SURE where you want to live. We thought we wanted to live in a beach town and tried several but we found we did not like the climate nor the local vibe. We are happier living in a valley outside of Quito (did not like big city either, moving from Houston) and visiting the beach when we want," remarked one expat who made the move to Ecuador.

"Get a realtor. Look around a lot. Start and finish with Sanborondon if your budget allows. Venture out to Los Ceibos and Via la Costa if the distance from the "fun areas" of Guayaquil isn't an issue. Talk to other expats (if you can find them)," explained one expat living in Guayaquil, Ecuador.

"THis process esp with minimal Spanish is NOT FOR THE FAINT OF HEART, trust me. I have struggled at times and have lived before out of the United States in South America. Visit, do your homework, trust that you will be taken advantage of (as I have several times with trusted Ecuadorians) and you REALLY have to WANT TO MOVE HERE sometimes to simply stay here. I am overall happy with my move/immigration to Ecuador but it is tough and challenging esp as a soltera at times, very tough," said one expat in Quito.

"We are in Puerto Cayo. It is small and I mean small. There are no shopping for groceries or luxury items. It is quiet and on any given day, I am the only person on miles and miles of beach," explained one expat living in Puerto Cayo, Ecuador.

"The best way to find a place to live in Ecuador is to visit the country in person. This will allow you to explore different neighborhoods and areas and get a better understanding of the local culture and environment. You can also look into renting an apartment or house from a reliable source. There are numerous real estate agencies and websites that list rental properties in Ecuador, so you should have no trouble finding a place that suits your needs. Additionally, many expats join local Facebook groups and other social media sites to network and search for housing opportunities. Lastly, you could consider connecting with an established property management company that specializes in providing international real estate services," said one expat in Ecuador.

"We made an exploratory trip months before we decided to come and live in Cuenca, Ecuador. We did not really choose the neighborhood we just found the apartment absolutely fell in love with it and the price was just right and the view and everything. It seemed like a good neighborhood as well and we bought it within two weeks of being in this country. To date 18 months later we are still very very happy with our purchase. We have since found it is a great neighborhood close to all amenities but far enough from the centre of the city," said one expat who made the move to Cuenca.

"Fortunately, my company hired a relocation firm. Sanborondon is the upper class, safe, and happening nearby suburb of Guayaquil. It was almost a given that I would live there as an expat with Company-provided housing. The Company also hired a realtor for us who helped with our search options (furnished, gated community, 3 bdrms, spacious, pool). Newspaper ads weren't very helpful at all. Word of mouth or realtors are the way to go," explained one expat living in Guayaquil, Ecuador.

"Not easy... I was offered a teaching job at PUCE , then denied it when my papers came through very late but I knew the barrio where I wanted to live -- however, it has gone up in price and there were few options available. I walked around in the neighborhood I wanted to finally settle in and found what I need. This is a HIGHLY RECOMMENDED way to discover a good apt in Quito," said one in Quito.

"I live in an apartment within an 8 unit building (tower) within a gated community of about 20 towers. Ideal mix of privacy and neighborly acquaintances. I don't know what the house/apt mix is, but I would imagine expat families with kids go for houses (in Sanborondon, Los Ceibos, or Via la Costa) and expat singles and couples go for apts. The houses in Sanborondon are usually huge, expensive, and not many to rent," said one expat who made the move to Guayaquil.

"If you really want to experience and love Ecuador - or any other foreign - don't make the mistake that too many ex-pats do by surrounding themselves with other ex-pats in an all-ex-pat gated community. Why move to a foreign country only to surround yourself with English-speaking gringos who sit around all day complaining about how everything was "so much better back home"?," explained one expat living in Ecuador.

"My wife and I came to Ecuador this summer, we live in a 2 bedroom apartment in Loja, Ecuador. Our building has 4 units of which 3 are occupied. We have many of the comforts of a first world country except a dishwasher, oven, elevator. We don't need or have a/c. We are 10 to 15 minutes walk to downtown and have stores, bakeries and a great market in easy walking distance. And saving the best for last we have an exquisite view of mountains all around us and great, responsive, caring landlord's. Who could ask for more?," said one in Ecuador.

"In Salinas you also can find less crowded areas away from the busy weekend tourism and noise. Little known is Porto Lucia a 15 min drive from the Malecon of Salinas. Here you can find quiet beachfront living with modern furnished condos on beachfront with all the amenities of the crowded Salinas tourist area & walking distance to the largest mall in the area. You can find it on google maps. Another option to the tourist area of Salinas yet still in Salinas," explained one expat who made the move to Salinas.

"Expat homes and apartments in Ecuador tend to be snug, but often have plenty of natural light due to the large windows and balconies that come with them. Expat homes or apartments in Ecuador tend to be well-furnished with modern conveniences such as air conditioning, heating, internet, and cable television. Many expat homes also come with their own private gardens or terraces, providing a great spot for al fresco dining and relaxation," explained one expat living in Ecuador.

"You don't need a car in Cuenca because there is a tram, buses, and taxis that are very inexpensive, especially for seniors. That is a big savings just for gas, insurance and maintenance. In Cuenca, you do not need AC or heat. A little portable heater at breakfast will suffice. The water is very cheap, $8-$10/mo. Some may try to give you tourist prices on rent or buying. Shop around.. There are some very reasonable prices. Plus, the interest rates for 1 year cd's so much better than US! Enjoy," remarked one expat who made the move to 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," explained one expat living in Puerto Cayo, Ecuador.

"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.

"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 expat who made the move to Guayaquil.

"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," explained one expat living in Machala, Ecuador.

"When deciding whether to buy or rent a home in Ecuador, it's important to consider factors such as your budget, length of stay and living style. If you plan on being in Ecuador for an extended period of time, buying a home may be a more cost-effective option in the long run. On the other hand, if you're looking for more flexibility, you may want to consider renting instead. Additionally, understanding local laws and the differences between buying and renting can be helpful in making an informed decision," said one expat in Ecuador.

"More books - not the Kindle I was given --personal effects, small paintings, items you love at home (small and transport friendly) Nothing in 2nd category," said one expat in Quito.

"1. Flents Ear Stopples. The best product available for when you are in noisy places or desiring to sleep well. 2. For motorists: bring your still-active Drivers License and any required certification from your DL state. This way you can get an Ecuador DL without taking tedious Spanish-language driving classes to 'learn' what you have known for forty years. 3. Some English-language reading material. When your Internet provider cuts off your service temporarily without advising you in advance for reason/s you did not anticipate .. you'll have something to read at night for the several days it takes to get your service back on," remarked one expat who made the move to Ecuador.

"Pack light, versatile clothing suitable for the climate. Depending on where you are moving in Ecuador, you may need to bring your own bedding and linens. If you plan to live in a colder climate, you may need to bring warm clothes and blankets. Make sure to include items like insect repellent and sunscreen, as Ecuador is known for its tropical climate. Don't forget to bring any necessary medications and any important documents you may need. It is also important to bring items to make you feel at home, such as photos or small decorations," explained one expat living in Ecuador.

"Vitamins, big bottle from Sams or Costco. Vitamins are real expensive here. Generic Allegra if you use Allegra, brand name only here $1+ per pill. If you use an expensive electric toothbrush, pack replacement heads, having a hard time finding here. Disposable razors mega pack. 3 razors for $5 here. Hosiery for women for special occasions, not much selection, colors or sizes here. Aftershave and colognes, limited selection of cheap brands here. Try Fragrance.net in USA for discount prices. Imodium, not available here. Most generic non anxiety non depression drugs readily available here without rx. No narcotics available at all as far as i know and likely no arthritis iv drugs either as those are very expensive. Think 3rd world cheap, if not used here hard if not impossible. Advil liquid gels very expensive and not readily available. My generic thyroid meds are $3 per month and available without rx. Electronics are not cheap but also brand names are really expensive. Recommend updating cell phone prior to coming and getting cheap cell to carry around here due to theft issues. Bring computer and tablet, we bought cheap hp deskjet for $60 or so here so bring a printer is not necessary. You can get copies and scans very cheap here also. Spring fall clothing to be layered unless going to coast. Typical mountain Temps are 40-55F at night, 55-75 F during day. I layer shirts with warmup jackets and hoodies during day and wear mid level jacket at night. If you think you may stay, bring all apostilled documents with you. No mail service here, DHL or FEDEX are your options at $100+ to get it here and not necessarily delivered. MOST OF ALL BRING RESPECT, WILLINGNESS TO LEARN AND ADAPT AND LOTS OF PATIENCE!!! EXTRA CREDIT FOR BASIC SPANISH SKILLS, LITTLE ENGLISH IS SPOKEN," said one expat in Ecuador.

"I brought almost nothing and certainly nothing extra. Two checked bags and a carry-on. And in that luggage was a plunge-router for my Father-in-law, two espresso machines (I wish I'd brought gaskets) a waffle iron, and lots of favorite kitchen things. Spare parts of anything where sourcing is an issue. I wish I'd brought a couple of second-hand iPhones. I brought one but lost it to a pickpocket on the trolley in Quito. Electronics are a must if you use them. Spares are worth it as replacing them is neither cheap nor easy. There are lots of culinary ingredients that aren't readily available but I'm gradually finding them or learning how to make them. Things like hoisin sauce and horseradish and black bean sauce and curry paste. The availability of wonderful locally grown produce (both fruit and veggies) is one of the richnesses of Ecuador, but for whatever inexplicable reason the local cuisine is very bland and though reasonably healthy (though on the greasy side), lacks any pizzazz, or even much interest. I've always cooked because I love food, but now it is for survival and to keep my tastebuds from atrophying," said one expat who made the move to Cotacachi.

"It is important to respect Ecuadorian customs when visiting the country. Trying to save face is valued highly, so it is best to remain calm and avoid any confrontational behavior. In conversations it is important to be aware of the local language and customs, being sure to avoid making jokes or being overly familiar. Ecuador is a conservative country, so it is best to dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites. Greeting people with a kiss on the cheek is popular and should be done according to the country's gender-based norms. Food is important to Ecuadorian culture, so it is polite to finish what is on your plate and wait for the host to indicate dessert, rather than helping yourself," remarked one expat in Ecuador.

"Ecuador's diverse natural beauty, welcoming culture, and relatively low cost of living are all attractive factors for expats looking to move to the country. Thanks to its stable government, strong foreign investment, and positive economic outlook, expats can be confident in making a move to Ecuador. Furthermore, Ecuador's location in the South American continent means that expats can take advantage of easy travel around the region as well as access to a variety of other South American countries. All in all, Ecuador is a great option for expats looking for a diverse culture, a relatively low cost of living, and an affordable and accessible place to explore South America," offered one expat living in Ecuador.

"Two former Minnesotans: Our experience and decision,, after a long land and home hunt in vilcabama, was to move elsewhere. We found a warmer area having less expensive property, both for land itself, and for homes and have been here nine years. Catamayo is warm, much of the time, (80;s) though it does get cooler at night. Loja, which is a 50 min. bus ride from Catamayo, is about 10-15 (?) degrees lower.," wrote one expat living in Catamayo and Loja.

"The tranquil and economical lifestyle on the beach in San Jacinto, small fishing village community and easy access (45 minute drive South) to Manta airport," commented one expat living in San Jacinto.

"We love it here....just outside like suburbs of Sangolqui which has population of about 75,000. Sangolqui has a very indigenous but Ecuadorian yuppie vibe. We have everything close-by, shopping mall, local market fruits and vegetables, Megamaxi (like Target), nice medical clinics and hospital, lots of outdoor activities AND breakfast view of snow covered Cotopaxi....," commented one expat who moved to Valle de Los Chillos, Ecuador.

"The coast of Ecuador has miles of beautiful beaches, with mild temperatures and no hurricanes! Ecuador uses the US dollar so there is no fear of currency fluctuations and the cost of living is easy on the wallet," remarked one expat living in Rio Chico.

"Seeing a doctor in Cuenca is an easy matter. No appointment necessary in most cases. Excellent service and good quality for a much lower cost that the U.S," replied one expat when asked about moving to Cuenca.

"If you need medical care and have good knowledge of Spanish, the state system IESS may be your choice, however if you are retired they raised the rates to about 17.5% of retirement income. I have cheap (low quality) insurance which reportedly doesn't pay, which is fine for me because I would rather pay 45 per month for insurance that I can't use than 75/mo for insurance I won't use," stated one expat who made the move to Cuenca.

"Go to the best hospital instead of the government hospital. Use the private clinics for basic healthcare and pay out of pocket," remarked one expat in Quito.

"Healthcare services in Ecuador are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is managed by the Ministry of Public Health and is available to all Ecuadorian citizens and legal residents. The quality of public healthcare varies depending on the region, but generally it is considered to be of good quality. Foreign residents are able to access the public healthcare system, but they must first register with the Ministry of Public Health. Expats in Ecuador typically use the public healthcare system, as it is often more affordable than private healthcare. However, some expats opt to purchase private health insurance to access private healthcare services," wrote one expat living in Ecuador.

" We have private insurance which costs $100 per month per person with $90 deductible. Our doctor copays are $5 for office visit (general and specialty). My husband had physical therapy for $15 each visit since deductible was not met yet. Normal blood tests are about $50. Colonoscopy $150 with anesthesia. I have gone for lab tests without rx for thyroid and other issues. About $12-20 each cash pay. There are doctors who will make house calls also, probably Spanish speaking. Costs are cheap without using insurance except for discounts. Rarely use it for meds because very little require rx. Just go talk to local friendly pharmacist about your issues and they will recommend a variety of meds and give you the pros and cons of each. They will also advise when you REALLY need to go to doctor. My lab test for infection ($12) gave me a list of meds that could be used to kill that bacteria. Took lab results to pharmacy to discuss which med would be the best for me. The amount of attention that the doctors in USA are able to give has made us fairly educated medical consumers. The system here makes it easy and cheap to get care," commented one expat who moved to Ecuador.

"Surprised by the ease in getting doctor's appointments and the speed at which patients are processed - much less waiting time than in the States. No wasted or unnecessary medications or treatments. Doctors and nurses here are for the patients not for profit," replied one expat when asked about moving to Machala.

"Note that you will not find current US style healthcare in most areas outside of large cities, it is more like 1980s. Good, adequate, not fantastic. Fine for daily stuff, maybe not good for you if you have some more complicated medical issues. My guess would be a beach town near a large city where you can go for more advanced healthcare. Larger cities will also be more likely to have English speaking doctors and dentists," stated one expat who made the move to Ecuador.

"Medical services in Ecuador are generally of a good standard, with a wide range of public and private hospitals and clinics available. The public health system is free for Ecuadorian citizens, and there are also a number of private health insurance plans available. The country has a number of highly trained doctors and specialists, and the quality of care is generally good. Ecuador also has a number of specialized medical centers, such as cancer treatment centers, and a number of medical research centers," remarked one expat in Ecuador.