Cuenca, Ecuador

"This city has a little of everything. The old and the new blend very well indeed. Lots of great restaurants, lots of music the weather is the best, the mountains are breathtaking, the prices for me are just right. I really have everything here I could ever wish for," wrote one member in Cuenca.

"Cuenca is a beautiful and unique city with many attractions and amenities to offer. It is important to be aware of the cultural norms and the climate before moving to Cuenca. The Ecuadorian people are very welcoming and friendly; however, language can be a barrier and it is best to learn some Spanish beforehand. The climate in Cuenca is temperate year-round, with temperatures typically ranging from 60-75°F. Since the city is located at 8,500 feet above sea level, the air is clean and dry. Expats should also research the cost of living in Cuenca, as it tends to be lower than what expats might be used to in the states. Finally, expats should plan ahead and make sure they have all their paperwork and visas in order before making the move," remarked one expat living in Cuenca, Ecuador, Ecuador.

"Make a trip here first and look around, meet some local people, meet some real estate agents. Research a lot before you move," wrote one member in Cuenca.

"Take your time to look around and if you find something that just jumps out at you take it. You will know if it feels right. Don't wait as if you do when you go back it will probably be gone. If you are looking and coming back to live here at a later date you can always rent it out to other expats. Rentals are in short demand for expats here in Cuenca," remarked one expat who made the move to Cuenca.

"Gringos are the preferred tenants in Ecuador. The reasons why will be of interest. 1. Ecuadorian law is ALL in favor of the tenant. So Ecuadorians will often not pay and it takes ages to evict them. 2. Though the leases may say different, the Law takes precedence. For example, if they turn your water, gas, electricity off, they are breaking the Law and liable for all damages. My suggestion is to: A. stay in a B&B (there are many at 25$ a day) B. Scope the areas suggested here to find one that suits you. C. if necessary, hire a facilitator (they are bilingual translators at 4$/hr+) to help with the language or suggestions. https://yapatree.com/cuenca-facilitators-make-life-easier/ D. Go to buildings in the areas you liked and ask the doormen if anything is for rent. The search investment is well worth your time," explained one expat living in Cuenca, Ecuador.

"One way to find a place to live in Cuenca is to look through online listings. Some popular sites include local classifieds, such as Encuentra24, and global rental sites like idealista and craigslist. Additionally, you can find locals willing to rent out apartments on Facebook Marketplace and Instagram. If you prefer a more traditional approach, you can ask friends or family if they know of any vacancies, or if they know someone else who is. Lastly, you can search in person by canvassing certain neighborhoods or checking out "se renta" (for rent) signs posted around the city," remarked one expat living in Cuenca, Ecuador, Ecuador.

"Through the internet we found a person whom totally misrepresented the rental market, however not knowing we were taken advantage of," wrote one member in Cuenca.

"We live in a large two bedroom two bathroom apartment with views to the mountains and over the river. Yes there are expats in other buildings but we did not come here to live with expats............although we love bumping into them. We only have one other couple (expats) who live in our building. The rest are locals and lovely people and they have accepted us with open arms," remarked one expat who made the move to Cuenca.

"Housing cost are substantially less than at home. We are moving into a real mansion with full use of the house and our own bath for $210 mo. $200-350 mo is very available. We were taken the first mo. at $550mo and was much less quality. Actually it was horrible," remarked one expat who made the move to Cuenca.

"Weekly expat Fridays at 5, currently held at Sakura Restaurant on 3 de Noviembre in front of the Tomebamba River at the bottom of the Escalinata," said one expat who made the move to Cuenca.

"Being from Australia probably more vegemite. My moisturiser that I used for hundreds of years........but now I have found another here that is just as good. My grown kids :)," explained one expat living in Cuenca, Ecuador.

"We wish we would have brought a Leatherman, our Vitamix and a portable water filter. We could have done without so many clothes," said one expat in Cuenca.

"Before retiring in Cuenca, expats should research the cost of living to ensure the city fits into their budget. They should also compare the quality of healthcare services in the city to what they are used to in order to ensure they will receive adequate care. Those considering retiring in Cuenca should research the local laws, visa processes, and other necessary paperwork for foreigners prior to relocating. Additionally, expats should consider the physical and cultural environment of the city to determine if it is a good fit for their lifestyle," explained one expat living in Cuenca, Ecuador, Ecuador.

"Foreigners often find employment in the service industry in Cuenca, working as English teachers, waiters and waitresses, bartenders, tour guides, hotel staff, and translators. Other foreign nationals also run their own businesses such as cafes, restaurants, and shops. Those with specialized skills may also find employment in healthcare or technology-related positions," wrote one member in Cuenca, Ecuador.

"Unlike Quito and Guayaquil which has many multi-national companies, jobs here are fairly non-existent, however, entrepreneurial opportunities abound. Many people are retired, however, once you have a Permanent Residency Visa...no matter which type you get...you can open a company to do any number of things. People here have restaurants, export business, real estate businesses, retail shops, etc. It's very simple to open a business here once you have a cedula," remarked one expat who made the move to Cuenca.

"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," remarked one expat living in Cuenca, Ecuador.

"Expatriates living in Cuenca appreciate the city's colonial architecture, vibrant local markets, and historic landmarks that make it a beautiful and unique place to live. They also enjoy the friendly atmosphere, caring neighbors, and hospitality of the local people—making it easy to assimilate and build relationships. Additionally, the low cost of living and plentiful outdoor activities offer expats an affordable and accessible lifestyle," said one expat who made the move to Cuenca, Ecuador.

"It is MUCH better than Costa Rica was. Cleaner, safer, more sophisticated, more elegant. Don't believe the west bloc weather reports on Cuenca. If the days is 5% rain and 25% partially cloudy and 60% sunny, they will report its raining. Cuenca placement very high up in a valley in the Andes between the massive weather makers of the steamy Amazon and the temperamental Pacific creates a local low pressure zone. So the weather can change and change back in minutes. If you are impatient, drive a mile and get whatever weather you want," explained one expat living in Cuenca, Ecuador.

"My Spanish - when caught off-guard, or in the early morning, my language ability (Spanish, but to a degree, English as well :-) fails and I am floundering. By afternoon, all is well," commented one expat who made the move to Cuenca.

"One of the most difficult aspects of the Cuenca culture for many expats is the idea of personal space. Cuencan culture is considered to be quite close and family-oriented, making it difficult for expats to maintain a sense of personal space. Additionally, expats can find the local language and customs complex and challenging. Despite the language barrier, expats often find it difficult to create meaningful relationships with local people. Additionally, many expats struggle with the pace of life which can be slower than hey may be used to with fewer conveniences like reliable internet and quick access to customer service," remarked one expat living in Cuenca, Ecuador, Ecuador.

"Cuenca is generally considered a safe place to live. According to the travel guide of Ecuador, travelers should take the same safety precautions that they would take anywhere else in the world. Petty crime does exist in Cuenca, such as pickpocketing, scams and occasional muggings, yet these incidents are considerably less frequent than violent crimes. Generally, tourists and expats are advised to be vigilant of their surroundings, avoid displaying wealth and try to blend in with the locals as much as possible," said one expat who made the move to Cuenca, Ecuador.

"Not a lot of crime in Cuenca but people need to us common since living here as they would in any city," explained one expat living in Cuenca, Ecuador.

"Cuenca has a diverse population, with many different ethnic and cultural backgrounds living in the city. The city's cultural and religious heritage were shaped by both the Spanish colonial era and its own Indigenous peoples. The citizens of Cuenca are generally very welcoming and accepting of others, regardless of differences in cultural backgrounds, ethnicity, or religion. People of all backgrounds can find a place in Cuenca where they can feel comfortable and welcomed," wrote a member in Cuenca, Ecuador.

"Cuenca offers a range of excellent international and bilingual schools for those looking for an immersive learning experience. The Colegio Americano de Cuenca is a topnotch international school providing an educational program based on the American system and teaching from pre-kinder through twelfth grade. Its curriculum is excellent, giving students the hands-on learning opportunities to ensure college readiness. San Rafael Private School is another great international school in Cuenca, providing education for children from pre-kinder through twelfth grade. San Rafael is committed to the holistic development of the student, focusing on academics, character values, arts, sports and the environment. For bilingual education, Eduardo Campuzano School is an excellent option. It offers an American academic program and immersion in Spanish, as well as extracurricular activities such as sports and music. With a campus in the heart of Cuenca and smaller classrooms, this approach provides personalized guidance and dynamic teaching," said one parent with children at in Cuenca, Ecuador.

"Expats and digital nomads living in Cuenca appreciate the city's colonial charm, its vibrant culture, and its affordability. They also enjoy the temperate climate, the friendly locals, and the abundance of outdoor activities. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads find the language barrier and the lack of modern amenities to be challenging. Additionally, the city's infrastructure can be unreliable and the cost of living is rising," remarked one expat living in Cuenca.

"I love living in Ecuador. Low cost of living, low taxes, great medical, great fresh produce at very low prices and very family friendly Hispanic values," said one expat living in Cuenca.

"Yes, it rains a bit, but if you have ever traveled to San Francisco, Amsterdam, London, Vancouver, you just keeping walking through it. The sun will dry you 10 minutes later. It definitely rains more today than 11 years ago. The only concession to Climate Change that Cuenca has made. But, there is greener grass and more flowers too. This new weather all started about 8 years ago. I find the weather wonderful! We have had enough beach living to make us tired and bored of it. ," mentioned one expat inCuenca.

"I try to not limit social interactions to other exists but rather immerse with the licals," commented one expat who moved to Cuenca.

"Expats, retirees and digital nomads living in Cuenca typically have an active social life. There are many opportunities to meet people and make friends, such as joining local clubs and organizations, attending cultural events, and participating in outdoor activities. Expats often find that the locals are friendly and welcoming, and that it is easy to make connections with other expats and digital nomads. Additionally, there are many online forums and social media groups dedicated to expats and digital nomads living in Cuenca, providing a great way to connect with like-minded people," said one expat.

"I'm 71, I've lived here for nearly nine years since retirement from Boeing in Seattle, WA. The people are very simple, mostly very undereducated. They are perhaps the hardest working people I have known. It doesn't mean the quality is great, but they are hard workers. Fresh produce is readily available. Ecuador can easily feed itself, that is a plus. We use the US dollar, and the Walmart dollars are most especially handy! Drop a double saw on somebody and they will freak out. Once you establish yourself as a neighbor (commonly seen out walking), customer, etc. the local world begins to open up to you. It is sort of like Las Vegas, you can get anything you want, if you know where to go. The reference of twenty years difference in advancement applies in general. The truth lies much deeper and gets back to the undereducated reference above. In the pandemic with the loss of jobs there is some increase in crime. This is the petty theft type, however, weapons have started to appear. We do not worry about walking the streets at night, well lit areas of course, that's just common sense. The bottom line is we aren't leaving. Life is much better here than in the USA. Houses don't need furnaces or air conditioning. No bugs, no snakes:)," mentioned an expat living in Cuenca.

"Cuenca is a vibrant city with a lively social scene. There are plenty of bars, restaurants, and cafes to explore, as well as a variety of cultural events and activities to take part in. The city is known for its friendly locals, who are always happy to welcome visitors and show them around. There are also plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, such as hiking, biking, and exploring the nearby waterfalls. Whether you're looking for a night out on the town or a relaxing day in the park, Cuenca has something for everyone," said an expat in Cuenca.

"Expats in Cuenca recommend researching the area thoroughly before committing to a rental or purchase. It is important to visit the area in person and get a feel for the neighborhood. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local laws and regulations regarding renting or buying property. It is also recommended to work with a reputable real estate agent who is familiar with the area and can provide helpful advice. Finally, expats suggest budgeting for additional costs such as utilities, taxes, and maintenance," commented one expat who moved to Cuenca.

"Although I did not plan to buy a house when I moved here, after a year I did buy a house and an very glad I did," said one expat.

"Don't come down here looking for a miracle cure for your ails. You would find the experience frustrating and assistance costs would wipe out the advantage I think. I do know from some other gringos, and gringo sites, that some medications are not available here, I don't have that experience," commented one expat living in Cuenca, Ecuador.

"Cuenca offers a wide range of medical services, including both public and private hospitals and clinics. The public hospitals are generally well-equipped and offer a variety of services, including emergency care, general medical care, and specialized care. Private hospitals and clinics offer a more personalized approach to medical care, with a focus on preventive care and specialized treatments. Cuenca also has a number of pharmacies, which provide a wide range of medications and other health-related products. Additionally, there are a number of medical professionals in the city, including doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals, who are available to provide medical care," remarked one expat living in Cuenca.

"Healthcare and health insurance in Cuenca are generally considered to be quite affordable compared to other countries. The cost of medical care is much lower than in the United States, and the quality of care is generally good. Health insurance is also relatively inexpensive, with many plans offering comprehensive coverage for a fraction of the cost of similar plans in the US. Additionally, the Ecuadorian government offers a public health insurance plan for those who cannot afford private insurance," remarked one expat in Cuenca.

"We tried private insurance here. Even though we got to the two years when prior conditions must be accepted by Ecuadorian law, we cancelled it. We come from a country where medical coverage is universal. We found the private insurance process deeply humiliating and we are not trained to tolerate it. The Cuenca medical services are great, superior to most in the world. It is a world medical/dental tourism destination. It is cheap.. though no serious illness is costless. We have the resources to pay as we go and like most developed world expats, at the very worst, we can return from where we came and get our coverage back in 3-4 months. If Ecuador decides to stopping letting expats in who cannot prove they have insurance, we pay 90$ a month in IESS premiums That is not to say that hospitals are not without payment annoyances in Ecuador. If you do not pay before leaving, they will not unhook you from their stuff. And it is hard to go downstairs and pay at Accounting when you are in bed undressed with tubes still running into you. Ecuadorian credit cards will not cover (without tedious special arrangements) amounts over $1000 and even then, the hospital won't believe it. Happily, Ecuador may not be a credit/debit card place but it is a cash one. Unlike the developed countries, banks here have gobs of the stuff on hand. My wife and I get an estimate and the non-hospitalized one has the cash on hand. (shrug)," wrote one expat living in Cuenca.

"Private health insurance here is a fraud. The only people buying it are US expats who were trained that you need it in the States. Here, health care is so cheap that you will NEVER recover your premiums. Example - insurance quoted me $400/mo insurance. I just spent 2 weeks in the hospital in a private room with excellent care, and the total cost (no insurance used) was just over $5,000. IOW, one year of premium to pay for 2 weeks hospital, Unless you are in the hospital a LOT, you are better off self-insuring (as we do)," commented one expat who moved to Cuenca.

"We didn't use our U.S. insurance because the deductibles would have been more than what we paid for care in Cuenca," said one expat.

" I am convinced that health insurance is a scam and that the cost of medical care is a scam in the USA. It has been proven to me by my experiences and the experiences of others in Ecuador and throughout Mexico, Central and South America. The Allopathic medical system has the worst record in losing patients to life threatening diseases, but the best records in trama cases where you have to air lift a patient to a hospital. I will only opt for Natural healing methods, which really work. I have also seen in the rural areas, a free health clinic with Allopathic medical doctors offering 24 hour service 7 days a week, being ignored by the local population, except in trauma cases. These rural folks go to their local healers and pay a very low fee for herbal and other healing preparations. Why? Because their experience is that the herbal preparations work and also have no side effects. They therefore do not opt for health insurance. ," commented one expat living in Cuenca, Ecuador.

"Prices are and product availability and servicing is changing rapidly. Though many things have always been cheaper (food and lodging) technological products were very dear 10+ years ago, they are not now. I bought a new computer yesterday and the price (with a bit of shopping) was 5% more expensive for the same thing on Amazon.com. us. I double-checked, all specifications. That being said, if you are looking for a city and country cheaper than Cuenca, there are plenty. They simply will be far less fun," remarked one expat in Cuenca.

"The cost of living in Cuenca is relatively low compared to other cities in the world. Rent for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Cuenca is typically around $300 USD per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment is around $400 USD per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Cuenca will usually cost around $10 USD per person," wrote one expat living in Cuenca.

"In order to obtain a visa to enter Cuenca, an individual must first apply for a visa at the Ecuadorian Embassy or Consulate in their home country. The application process typically requires the submission of a valid passport, a completed visa application form, and a fee. Depending on the type of visa, additional documents may be required. In order to apply for residency in Cuenca, Ecuador, an individual must first obtain a visa. Once the visa is obtained, the individual must then apply for residency at the Immigration Office in Cuenca. The application process typically requires the submission of a valid passport, a completed residency application form, and a fee. Depending on the type of residency, additional documents may be required," said one expat living in Cuenca.

"Cuenca is an attractive destination for expats due to its low cost of living, beautiful colonial architecture, and vibrant culture. The city is known for its temperate climate, with year-round spring-like temperatures and plenty of sunshine. Cuenca also offers a wide range of outdoor activities, from hiking and biking to rafting and kayaking. Additionally, the city is home to a large expat community, making it easy to make friends and find support. With its low cost of living, stunning scenery, and friendly people, Cuenca is an ideal destination for expats looking for a new home," remarked one expat living in Cuenca.

"At the risk of offending someone, I am not in Cuenca because of the cost of living. That is a bonus of course, but not key for us. We did a lot of searching of the globe (40+ years) to find a place that had the elements we needed to be happy at this stage of life.. We have had second homes in many places. After all, one gives up the proximity of family and old friends when one expats. There has to be some potent compensation! Cuenca requires the least compromises. Gobs of culture from free opera to free rock concerts. Two stadiums. UNENDING boutique shopping. A quickly recovering restaurant and club scene. 4 rivers running through it. Inca ruins. 16 century architecture! Cobble stone streets. A modern side. Views everywhere. 4 universities, colleges, music conservatoires, great inexpensive health care on anything within 10 minutes 24/7. A college town fill of beautiful young people. Many international fairs. Incredible fruits and seafood. (Everything costs a dollar..the only thing that varies is how much you get for it! :D) Today it is 6 mangoes for a buck unless you want to pick them for yourself. The best of all is the airport. It is too small for most international flights and that keeps expats and tourists away. Merely 15,000 (about 45% American and the rest from everywhere) in a greater area containing 700,000+ souls. If one yearns for beach, it is 3 hours away and the weather is hot all year long. However, the water is its warmest from December through Mayish (80F) Coldest in August (71F)," said one expat living in Cuenca.