Pros and Cons of Living in Ecuador

What are the pros and cons of living in Ecuador?

Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Ecuador responded:

"it is a nice walking city because there are NO hills and lots to see. Ocean and beaches near by, weather is very consistent, very few insects and the people are great. There is no airport nearby, closest is in Guayaquill, therefore i met very few expats in my daily life. The city, pop of 250k+-, is very clean," explained one expat living in Machala.

"There is a long relatively clean and quiet beach so beach lovers will be happy. There is very undeveloped and not very charming beachfront area which has almost completely shut down since the pandemic. The infrastructure in the town - roads, sewage, potable water, sanitation, recycling - is either non-existent or severely damaged. Therefore, life in town does not have much to offer, but if you have a property in one of the river valleys, you may feel more fulfilled. If you want to make year-round gardens or grow your own food, one can do that here, provided you connect to a water source. If you're looking for a quiet rural escape and can self-motivate to find your interests such as tele-working or have an entrepreneurial spirit, this could work. If you're looking for lots of external stimulation, this is not the place," said another in Canoa.

"I moved to the Coast of Ecuador for the wonderful year round mild temps, sunny high season and no storms. I chose to live in a gated community for safety and convenience. Despite Covid news all around here, I feel safer here than in the US," explained one expat in Montanita.

"Beautiful country. Generally likable and welcoming communities. Spectacular and plentiful fresh food available. 12 hour days all year long, with warm weather all year. An enormous variety of activities, places, and natural wonders to explore. The OCEAN," explained one member in Manta.

"Would like more entertainment options. Friendly expats and welcoming locals. The city has good transportation options, country and international bus connections and airlines. Can buy anything needed without going to large city yet small enough that it is easy to get around and can walk to essential places for shopping and doing business," explained one expat living in Manta, Ecuador.

"We love Cotacachi, have become completely integrated here, started an animal rescue foundation and hospital, have now started an indigenous community project and have homesteaded a large and functioning animal farm. Ecuador is a dream come true," said another expat who moved to Cotacachi, Ecuador.

Expat Health Insurance in Ecuador

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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