Choosing the right city to relocate to in Ecuador can be a daunting task for ex-pats. With so much to offer, it can be overwhelming to figure out which city best suits your needs.
This Spanish-speaking country boasts a rich culture, deep history, and stunning natural attractions. These qualities make Ecuador an appealing place to live, especially with its beautiful coastline dotted with beaches, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals.
Ecuador truly has something for everyone, from the beach to the mountains, all while enjoying a pleasant climate. With a population of approximately 17.27 million, it’s a place that feels both accessible and inviting, making it an ideal candidate for retirement.
If you’re seeking a guide to help you find the perfect Ecuadorian city to call home, you’re in the right place. We’ve curated a list of locations in Ecuador to assist you in making your relocation decision.
Quito
In addition to offering all modern conveniences, Quito is considered one of Ecuador’s safest cities. Often hailed as the most beautiful large city in South America, it boasts a stunning location, breathtaking views, and a delightful old-world charm.
If you plan to work while living in Ecuador, Quito should definitely be at the top of your shortlist. The city has a diverse range of businesses and industries, but many foreigners find opportunities in the education sector quite quickly.
Advantages of Living in Quito
- There are plenty of activities to do in the city.
- Locals have a high level of spoken English.
- It is an excellent location for meeting new people.
Drawbacks of Living in Quito
- Asthmatic individuals may find it challenging to live here because of the high elevation.
- There may be heavy traffic.
- The issue of pollution can arise.
Cuenca
Cuenca, just a few hours from Quito, is renowned for its excellent restaurants and pleasant weather. It has become a popular region for ex-pats.
With over 10,000 North Americans and Europeans calling it home, Cuenca is the most sought-after destination for ex-pats in Ecuador. In 1999, UNESCO recognized this charming Spanish colonial city as a World Heritage Site, further enhancing its appeal as a place to settle down.
While Cuenca may not be as large as some of the other cities in Ecuador, this actually works to your advantage. You can easily walk around and explore many of its renowned sites, taking in the beauty of the city at your own pace.
In recent years, Cuenca has experienced remarkable growth and is increasingly capturing the attention of visitors. During my stay, I met several ex-pats who were all friendly and had successfully adapted to the Ecuadorian lifestyle. Their positive experiences added to the welcoming atmosphere of the city.
Advantages of Living in Cuenca
- Low living expenses
- Chill and laidback environment
- LGBT+-friendly locations
Drawbacks of Living in Cuenca
- Due to its population size, traffic can also be a problem.
Vilcabamba
Vilcabamba is a fantastic option for ex-pats, especially since it has a smaller, tight-knit community. While it may not have the impressive attractions of larger cities, its charm lies in its cleanliness and simplicity.
Situated about 4 hours and 45 minutes south of both Cuenca and Loja, Vilcabamba offers beautiful river walks and some amazing high-mountain hiking trails, although we did notice some areas could use a bit of upkeep.
I first heard about Vilcabamba from an ex-pat we met during our travels. He couldn’t stop raving about the weather, saying it has the best climate in Ecuador with more sunshine than any other place, not to mention the great air quality. It sounded pretty enticing!
With its lovely climate, plants flourish here, making it easy to grow your own food, which I found really appealing.
Getting to major cities from Loja is a breeze, whether by bus or plane, and Vilcabamba has a population of around 5,000, including about 500 foreigners.
Considering the low cost of living and the delightful local restaurants, it could be a great place to settle down—or even start your own business! I definitely left with a sense of curiosity about what life would be like there.
Advantages of Living in Vilcabamba
- Quiet and simple living
- Ideal place for green thumb individuals
- Nice weather and fresh air
Drawbacks of Living in Vilcabamba
- It doesn’t have the modern features that other cities have.
- It can be boring for outgoing people.
Montañita
The coastal city of Montañita is a favorite among foreign residents, especially American and European ex-pats, who often settle along the 9-mile (14-kilometer) stretch of Ecuador’s Pacific Coast around Manglaralto and La Entrada. Its seaside location and vibrant atmosphere make Montañita particularly appealing to younger crowds.
Known as Ecuador’s party capital, Montañita is bustling with nightlife, offering a variety of nightclubs both on and off the beach. You’ll find an array of dining options as well, from Thai and vegetarian spots to numerous pizza restaurants.
As Montañita has evolved into a popular tourist destination, it boasts excellent bus service to other must-visit areas in Ecuador, making it easy to explore the rest of the country.
For those seeking a quieter lifestyle, Manglaralto and Olon are great alternatives. These towns are much more peaceful than Montañita but still feature beautiful beaches, making them ideal bases for many ex-pats.
Advantages of Living in Montañita
- Affordable cost of living
- Close proximity to the beach
- Laid back vibes
Drawbacks of Living in Montañita
- Parties can be too loud if you live by the beach.
Bahia de Caraquez
Malecón de Bahía
Making Bahía de Caráquez your home base can be an exciting choice. Despite being a small city, it boasts a clean and welcoming atmosphere that instantly feels inviting.
The locals are friendly and approachable, making it easy to connect with the community. With a secure environment and a laid-back vibe, living here offers a sense of tranquility.
One highlight in Bahía de Caráquez is the Museo de Bahía de Caráquez, which features around 600 items that showcase Ecuador’s rich history. It’s considered one of the top archaeological museums in the country and is definitely worth a visit.
The gastronomy in Bahía de Caráquez is another draw. The city is renowned for its ceviche, which many locals claim is among the best in the nation. Additionally, the delicious peanut soup is a favorite among both locals and visitors, making dining here a delightful experience.
Advantages of Living in Bahia de Caraquez
- The area is fantastic for nature lovers.
- The town’s size is small enough to be accessible for walking.
- You’ll enjoy peaceful beachfront living.
Drawbacks of Living in Bahia de Caraquez
- The area can be too quiet and boring for some people.
- If you are used to busy city life, this might not be your place.
Cotacachi
Cotacachi may not have been widely recognized before, but it’s gradually gaining popularity as one of the smallest cities in Ecuador. Known for its low cost of living, it’s becoming an ideal spot for those considering retirement.
Recently, more people have begun to discover what this charming place has to offer, as it develops new attractions and amenities.
The year-round spring-like weather and stunning mountain views attract ex-pats from around the world. Interestingly, there weren’t many full-time foreign residents here until just three years ago.
Now, all-inclusive restaurants run by ex-pats are popping up, and the changes in the area are quite noticeable. It’s exciting to see Cotacachi transform into a vibrant community!
Advantages of Living in Cotacachi
- Affordable living expenses
- Balanced weather
- Centrally located
Drawbacks of Living in Cotacachi
- Some people may find the place boring.
San Clemente
San Clemente, a tiny village just about 30 minutes from Bahía de Caráquez, offers a tranquil atmosphere that some might find a bit dull.
Fishing is the primary way of life here, and the locals maintain traditional practices that reflect an old-fashioned way of living.
While the slow pace might not be for everyone, many people see San Clemente as a paradise. It’s an ideal spot if you’re looking for a simple life away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Those who have moved to this quaint village often say it has contributed to their health and helped them embrace a stress-free lifestyle. The area is perfect for anyone seeking a peaceful, rural way of life.
Advantages of Living in San Clemente
- Simple and calm surroundings
- Stress-free place
- The environment is beneficial for your health.
Drawbacks of Living in San Clemente
- Some people may find it too dull.
- English is not a well-spoken language.
- Water and electricity supply is unstable.
Manta
Manta is a growing city known for housing Ecuador’s largest port. As the country’s primary maritime hub, it’s common to see cruise ships stopping here.
Offering many conveniences typical of a large city, along with stunning beaches and lovely weather, Manta is an excellent choice for ex-pats looking to settle in Ecuador.
Being a developing city, the locals are friendly and welcoming, and the streets are generally traffic-free, which makes getting around easier and more affordable.
What truly makes Manta a fantastic place to live is the people. Their warmth and hospitality create a sense of belonging, making you feel right at home from the moment you arrive.
Advantages of Living in Manta
- You will enjoy living close to the beach.
- Affordable cost of living
Drawbacks of Living in Manta
- The town can be boring to some people.
- Living near the seaport means it is usually bustling with people, particularly in the daytime.
Salinas
Salinas, another beautiful coastal city in Ecuador, is about an hour and a half’s drive from Montañita. I recently took a quick trip there, and I thoroughly enjoyed two wonderful weeks on the coast.
Salinas has a vibrant atmosphere reminiscent of a small Miami, but at a fraction of the price. This beach resort is quite popular among Ecuador’s elite, many of whom own vacation condos right on the beach.
The temperatures here are warm yet comfortable, with evenings bringing a pleasant coolness. The stunning views and friendly locals add to the charm of this coastal paradise.
Meeting ex-pats is easy, and I found that making friends was a breeze.
Salinas also boasts Paez National Airport, which offers direct flights to and from Quito, enhancing its accessibility. With its transportation links and welcoming community, the potential of this place is promising!
Advantages of Living in Salinas
- Great real estate opportunities
- Lovely beach and city vibes similar to Miami
- Stress-free environment
Drawbacks of Living in Salinas
- The town can be too quiet during the off-season.
Playas
Playas, Ecuador, is a highly favored ex-pat community, thanks in part to its proximity to Guayaquil.
The drive along the well-maintained road from Playas to Guayaquil’s international airport takes about an hour and a half, and it’s even quicker to reach one of the city’s modern hospitals.
If you’ve always dreamed of living in a beach town that’s close to a big city but still retains a small-town vibe, Playas might just be the perfect fit for you.
In recent years, Playas has undergone some much-needed improvements, including the construction of a new malecón (boardwalk) and the El Paseo Mall, making it an even more appealing place to call home.
Advantages of Living in Playas
- Close to the beach
- Close to a major city
- Accessible
Drawbacks of Living in Playas
- Tourists flock during high season months
- Some may find the place too busy
So, Why Live in Ecuador?
Many ex-pats highly recommend Ecuador as an ideal place to live or start a business.
With convenient land, air, and sea transportation options, Ecuador truly offers everything you could ask for. It’s a wonderful location that beautifully balances nature and history, making it a fantastic place to call home.
The welcoming nature of the people here adds to the convenience of living in Ecuador, as most locals treat ex-pats and visitors with kindness and respect.
As the saying goes, words alone can’t capture the wonders of Ecuador. The country is on a path of growth, with the potential to become one of the finest places in the world.
More and more people are starting to recognize the beauty of this land, especially in the areas we’ve highlighted. It’s not just the cities that shine; Ecuador’s natural landscapes are equally breathtaking. There are countless unexplored locations waiting to be discovered.
Ecuador truly has everything you could desire in a country—historical sites, stunning beaches, majestic mountains, national parks, volcanoes, delicious restaurants, and an incredible food scene.
Investors from around the globe are starting to see Ecuador’s potential, leading many to consider it for investment, business opportunities, or as their retirement destination.
What are the Problems of Living in Ecuador?
Quito’s Historic District, Ecuador
To start, some places in Ecuador, especially a few coastal cities, can be quite loud and bustling.
The country attracts many tourists, and during the high season, popular cities like Baños can become crowded with visitors. While tourism is vital for the economy, an influx of tourists who don’t respect the local environment can have a negative impact on the area where you live.
The growing number of visitors poses a risk to the cleanliness of Ecuador’s beautiful landscapes. When people loiter and neglect their surroundings, it detracts from the area’s charm.
Some might view Ecuador as unsafe or underdeveloped, but its potential is far from being fully realized.
While tourists undoubtedly contribute to Ecuador’s economy, it’s essential for locals to manage the challenges that come with overcrowding to ensure a sustainable future for their country.
Is Ecuador an Excellent Place to Live or Just for Vacation?
Laguna de Cuicocha
Absolutely, Ecuador is a fantastic place to both live and visit. The Ecuadoreans are doing a commendable job of preserving the country’s natural beauty and cleanliness.
Experiencing the stunning landscapes and unique lifestyle really adds to the excitement of living in Ecuador.
I believe that the friendly locals play a significant role in educating newly migrated residents about Ecuador’s rich culture and values, making the transition smoother for everyone.
I’m even considering making Ecuador my home someday. My visits to various provinces have been wonderful, and I’ve connected well with the people here. It feels like a place where I could truly belong!
