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," explained one expat living in 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," said one expat in Cuenca, Ecuador.

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

"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," remarked 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," wrote one member in Cuenca, Ecuador.

"We are in a B&B and not typical as apartments are every where. You just don't know until you get here," said one expat in Cuenca.

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

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

"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," remarked one expat living in Cuenca, Ecuador, 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," wrote one member in 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," remarked one expat who made the move to Cuenca.

"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 who made the move to 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," remarked 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," remarked one expat who made the move to 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," explained one expat living in 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," wrote one member in Cuenca.

"For Ecuadorians, life revolves around family. Expats are very social here, though there aren't too many of us. Most expats who are in Cuenca are adventurous, love to explore the country, and are focused pretty much on living life," remarked one expat who made the move to Cuenca.

"Cuenca has a lot going for it as far as the arts. There are always free concerts that you can attend in the city. Art festivals, Choirs, Orchestras you name it. This is a very family oriented society and life revolves around the family. My local business colleagues are always spending time with their families on the weekends and we should learn from them. They have a wonderful network of family around them. Religious events are a time for parades, church and other activities," explained 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," commented 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," remarked one expat living in Cuenca, Ecuador.

"The weather.. and my spouse's contentment. I am still working remotely from Ecuador, but not being in an office is wonderful. I could work and be happy most anywhere if I have moderate temperature and solitude to read. My husband, however, although a U.S. citizen, was born in Spain to diplomatic parents. He spent his childhood in mostly central American countries, and has been feeling trapped in the US for the past 30 years, while we raised our children. I am thrilled for him and with him that we are able to once again live in a Spanish speaking country. He states that Cuenca today is much like San Jose, Costa Rica was 35 years ago - and that is very special," wrote one member in 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," said one expat 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," said one expat who made the move to Cuenca.

"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," remarked 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.

"It's strange here, in that on the surface, everyone mingles well and it is quite the mixing pot. Cuenca always has lots of tourists due to both its reputation as well as being such a destination for learning Spanish. Beneath the surface, for residents, however, there is not a lot of mingling between classes, as in most Latin American countries. In expat circles, everything is fairly acceptable as we tend to have quite the liberal lot," commented one expat who made the move to Cuenca.

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

"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.

"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. ," commented one expat living 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.

"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 an expat in Cuenca.

"I try to not limit social interactions to other exists but rather immerse with the licals," remarked one expat 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:)," 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.

"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.

"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 living in Cuenca, Ecuador.

"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 who moved to 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," said one expat.

"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 living in 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," said an expat 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," remarked one expat 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 an expat in Cuenca.

"This has come up before. In the main, only one expat demographic, American, looks to Ecuador (or most other havens) as a cheaper place to live with dignity. I am not saying that lower cost is not a pleasant element for everyone, but it is not the primary reason for moving here for others. The largest "immigrant" group, by far, is returning Ecuadorians. They look for a better life than they have found elsewhere, often in retirement after 40 years in the US or Spain. Others, an ever growing group, are European young families looking for a better setting to raise their youngsters. There are also well-off oldsters, who like the weather, the town, the cultural scene and the beauty. My 70 year old wife likes that she has a choice of horses to ride in the mountains every day year round and I like the trout fishing, 365/year. Money reasons alone are not a good reason to choose anywhere. They may be important, but you need more to be happy," wrote one expat living in Cuenca.