Cuenca, Ecuador

"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," commented one expat who made the move to Cuenca, Ecuador.

"Bring whatever technology items you can w you bc they are very expensive here. If your car is less than 4 years old you can bring that, if it has a smaller engine," remarked one expat living in 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.

"Make a trip here first and look around, meet some local people, meet some real estate agents. Research a lot before you move," said one expat who made the move to Cuenca.

"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.

"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," wrote one member in Cuenca.

"Through the internet we found a person whom totally misrepresented the rental market, however not knowing we were taken advantage of," remarked one expat who made the move to Cuenca.

"A typical expat home or apartment in Cuenca, is typically modern and comfortable. Most expat homes and apartments feature amenities such as high-speed internet, flat-screen TVs, and air conditioning. The interiors are usually spacious, with plenty of natural light due to the abundance of large windows and balconies that overlook the surrounding city. Most of the properties feature modern kitchens, with stainless steel appliances and granite countertops. Many are equipped with plenty of storage closets and bathroom amenities, such as a tub, shower, and washer/dryer," wrote a member in Cuenca, Ecuador.

"The average cost of housing in Cuenca varies depending on the size, location, and condition of the property. Generally speaking, monthly rents for one-bedroom apartments within city limits average around $200 - $450, while monthly rents for two or three-bedroom apartments within city limits average around $300 - $800. Long-term rentals for a house with three or more bedrooms in Cuenca usually start at around $450 - $800 per month," wrote one member in Cuenca, Ecuador.

"You can buy a beautiful 2 brm 2.5 bathroom apartment from about $78,000 upwards. If you are looking for a home with a bit of land around you can go about 15 mins from Cuenca and find the most beautiful homes for $150,000 - $300,000 and of course then you have the ones that are even higher. Depending on what you are looking for. There are beautiful pre-construction apartments selling from $60,000 to a large penthouse which has the most spectacular views for under $200,000. I went and paid our phone and electric bill the other day and for the two of us it was $30 for the month. Our apartment taxes are around $30 per year. Our security apartment and gas fees per month are $63.00," remarked one expat who made the move to Cuenca.

"Expats living in Cuenca often join social groups and clubs that cater to their interests. Popular activities for expats include taking Spanish classes, dancing, volunteering, attending meet-ups and exploring the local culture. Expats also join a variety of online forums, such as Expats in Cuenca and Cuenca Highlife to discuss local topics, host events, find resources and ask questions. Additionally, many expats make friends by attending local events and festivals, such as the Festival of the Little Candles and the Corpus Christi Festival. Living in the same neighbourhood as other expats, attending weekly gatherings in local bars, cafes, and restaurants and participating in outdoor activities such as hiking, biking and kayaking are also great ways to meet and make connections in the Cuenca community," commented one expat who made the move to Cuenca, Ecuador.

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

"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," wrote one member in Cuenca.

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

"We arrived here over a decade ago. A codicil: We are much traveled and have had homes in many countries over the last 60 years. We have learned not to cling to the stuff we grew familiar with in the last places. That is analogous to gathering barnacles. It is a horrible hassle dragging lifestyle items unfound in your new home with you from someplace else. It is ultimately cheaper to buy locally as 95% of items cost less in Ecuador and come with a usable warranty and local repair know how. I feel bad for people that try to drag everything along with them. When we arrived, then some IT items cost double. But we have learned to keep checking as this world is changing FAST. They have become cheaper every year and now are MAYBE 10% more expensive. Everything else is also, relatively, much cheaper and with the trade agreements with Europe and China there is a greater availability and options in many areas. For example, we chose the styling for our living room set (easy chair, love seat & sofa) and picked the cloth from 100s and had it all made for 1050$ in 10 days. Can that be done in your present home? Appliances are the same - many now being made in Ecuador or South America. (If there is option in this area, buy something with mechanical rather than digital controls). Even if you buy an American brand name, it is likely a bitsa made in from iffy parts outside of the US. You will save a fortune buying non-West products. and have less misery," commented 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 :)," remarked one expat living in Cuenca, Ecuador.

"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," wrote a 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," said one expat in Cuenca.

"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," said one expat who made the move to Cuenca, Ecuador.

"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 expat in Cuenca.

"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.

"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 who made the move to 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," explained one expat living in 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 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 in Cuenca, Ecuador.

"I believe that the people here are warm and accepting. I certainly have not come across any hostilities to expats. They are very eager to be of helping nature," wrote one member in Cuenca.

"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," remarked one expat who made the move to 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," commented one expat when asked about 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," 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," remarked one expat living in 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 living in Cuenca.

"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:)," said an expat 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," remarked one expat in 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," commented one expat living in Cuenca, Ecuador.

"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," remarked one expat living in Cuenca.

"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," said one expat living in Cuenca.

"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," mentioned one expat inCuenca.

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

"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 living 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)," said one expat living in Cuenca.

" 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. ," mentioned one expat inCuenca.

"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, Ecuador.

"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," remarked one expat living in Cuenca.

"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," said 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," remarked one expat 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.