Living in Ecuador
Considering living in Ecuador? Discover the cost of living and quality of life across 14 verified cities. We analyzed rent, internet speeds, and safety for expats and digital nomads.
Avg. 1-Bed Rent
$436
National Safety
68 / 100
Avg. Internet
65 Mbps
Top Destinations in Ecuador
The Complete Guide to Ecuador
Everything you need to know about visas, taxes, banking, and finding a home before you move.
Ecuador (particularly Cuenca and Quito) has long been a haven for American retirees due to its low cost of living, use of the US Dollar, and excellent climate.
The Rentista Visa
The most common route for long-term expats.
- Requirements: You must prove a guaranteed monthly income of around $1,350 USD (based on the minimum wage, which changes annually). Historically, this had to be a pension or rental income, but recent interpretations sometimes allow steady dividend or trust income.
- Duration: Grants a 2-year temporary residency, which can be converted to permanent residency.
Professional Visa
If you hold a university degree from an internationally recognized institution, you can bypass the income requirements and apply for the Professional Visa. The degree must be authenticated and registered with Ecuador's higher education authority (SENESCYT), which can be a tedious process of apostilling diplomas.
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