Prepare for a grand tour through the best retirement locations in Ecuador – an exotic, affordable, and surprisingly comfortable country.
From the colonial characterful Cuenca to the sunny beaches of Salinas and the Valley of Longevity, Vilcabamba – join us as we navigate the quaint streets, serene coastlines, and picturesque highlands of Ecuador in search of the best locations for expat retirees.
Best locations in Ecuador:
- Cuenca: Colonial charm with a large expat community.
- Quito: All the amenities and rich cultural scene.
- Vilcabamba: Serene "Valley of Longevity."
- Loja: Affordable with good infrastructure.
- Cotacachi: Characterful and peaceful with beautiful scenery.
- Ibarra: Lovely lakes and colonial charm.
- Puyo: Adventure hub in the rainforest.
- Salinas: Beach living with a lively nightlife.
- Bahía de Caráquez: Eco-friendly with stunning beaches.
- Manta: Lively port city with good amenities.
- Bonus: Puerto López: Authentic coastal escape with natural beauty.
Choose your favorite climate
The beauty of living in Ecuador is that you can choose the climate you like and enjoy it pretty much all year round. Here’s the rundown:
The Andes: If you fancy eternal spring, the Andes are your playground. With cooler temperatures year-round, sunny days can be warm or even hot, but expect some chilly, rainy days too. Snow? Rarely. Quito might get a dusting that melts before you can find your camera.
The Rainforest: For those who thrive in hot and wet conditions, the eastern rainforest is the place to check out. Tropical temperatures and frequent rains are the norm. Closer to the Andes, the rain keeps things cooler, but deeper into the east, it’s all about steamy, sticky heat.
The Coast: If you dream of living on the beach, the Ecuadorian coast offers hot weather with distinct rainy and dry seasons. The dry season brings cooler, breezy days with overcast skies, while the sunny, drizzly season cranks up the heat and humidity.
Ecuador is a high-altitude country due to the Andean mountain range running through the center of Ecuador. The low-altitude areas are primarily found along the coast and in the Amazon rainforest region. If the altitude is important for you due to health conditions, make sure you check the elevation of your preferred locations.
Let's explore the most popular cities and towns in each climate zone.
The Andes
1. Cuenca
Known for its colonial architecture, big expat community, and mild climate, Cuenca is one of the top destinations for retirees in Ecuador. It’s an extraordinary city offering a clean and safe environment, green spaces, and affordable and healthy living.
Almost everyone who’s moved here will rave about how healthy life in Cuenca is. Making walking a cornerstone of your daily routine is easy - the paths along the rivers are well-maintained and lovely. And with scenic walks and cheap bus fares (discounted for seniors!), you won’t miss driving one bit.
There is no lack of things to do or people to meet. The healthcare facilities are great, and so is shopping and entertainment.
- Rent: A nice unfurnished 2-bed apartment in a good location can start from $600.
- Travel: Mariscal Lamar Airport is just 2 km away, offering frequent flights to Quito and Guayaquil. From there, you can easily connect to international flights.
- Climate and weather: steady average temperature all year at about 58 degrees, but daily temperature swings can vary by 40 degrees. There’s a dry season and a wet season. Due to the high elevation, the sun is intense, so people cover up and wear sunscreen all the time.
- Altitude: At an elevation of around 2,590 meters (8,500 ft), Cuenca is pretty high, so adjusting to the altitude might take some time.
2. Quito
The city of views and parks, Quito is nestled in a valley surrounded by volcanoes, offering stunning views whether you're looking up or down. From Parque Itchimbía, you can see the entire city on a clear day.
Quito is full of parks, and some of them, such as Parque La Carolina, which spans over 100 city blocks, are huge.
Quito’s historic center, with its lovely cobblestone streets and hills, is packed with restaurants, bars, and clubs, making it the heart of the city's nightlife. La Mariscal, affectionately called "Gringolandia," is the go-to neighborhood for expats in Quito.
- Rent: A good 2-bed apartment in a good location can be rented on average for about $1,300.
- Travel: Mariscal Sucre International Airport is just 18 km out of Quito
- Climate and weather: Quito’s high elevation and proximity to the equator balance each other out, giving the city spring-like weather most of the year, which translates to chilly and damp. If you crave sunshine and warmth, this might not be ideal.
- Altitude: 2,850 meters (9,350 ft), the second highest capital in the world.
3. Vilcabamba
Often called the "Valley of Longevity," Vilcabamba is a good place to retire if you seek an uncomplicated lifestyle, stunning scenery, and healthy living. Here, people remain spry well into their golden years. The weather is nearly perfect year-round, the fertile land bursts with fresh produce, and everyone gets plenty of exercise. Plus, they drink pure water cascading down from the Andean peaks.
There are a lot of expats here. Stroll around the town square, and you'll hear English everywhere, making it easy to settle in without a language barrier.
Vilcabamba is a small town, so don't expect the infrastructure of a bustling metropolis, but there's a small hospital with an ambulance and emergency department.
- Rent: For $650 a month, you can rent a lovely 2-bed apartment,
- Travel: The closest airport is Loja Airport, also known as Catamayo Airport, which is about 42 kilometers (26 miles) away. While not a large international airport, it has regular flights from Quito and Guayaquil, Ecuador's two major cities.
- Climate and weather: a spring-like climate year-round due to its location in the Andes mountains. This translates to pleasant temperatures with minimal seasonal variation.
- Altitude: 1,524 meters (5,000 ft), which is considered moderately high; however, if you are more sensitive to lower oxygen levels, you might feel uncomfortable for some time.
4. Loja
Just a stone's throw from Vilcabamba, Loja is a picturesque, safe, and affordable retirement haven. It's got more development, better services, and infrastructure than its sleepy neighbor, yet it remains quiet and peaceful.
Loja is a lovely city with colonial architecture, nice parks, and a relaxed atmosphere that makes you want to kick back and stay awhile. It has several hospitals and clinics and all the immediate services you need. Plus, there's a growing expat community, so you'll have plenty of company. If you're looking for a quiet charm, culture, and comfort, Loja is the place to be.
- Rent: A really nice 2-bed apartment in a great neighborhood can be rented for $450 month. A $1,000 will get you a 2-bed house with a massive plot of land.
- Travel: Loja Airport, also known as Catamayo Airport, is located just 18.4 kilometers (11 miles) west of the city center and offers regular flights to Quito and Guayaquil, Ecuador's two major cities.
- Climate and weather: another spot with a perpetual spring climate. Temperatures are mild year-round, with highs ranging from 18-24°C (64-75°F) and lows around 10-13°C (50-55°F).
- Altitude: 2060 meters (6758 ft) above sea level, so be mindful of cooler weather, less oxygen, and stronger UV rays.
5. Cotacachi
Cotacachi, a delightful little gem nestled in the Andes, is where you'd go if you wanted to escape the noise of modern life. Known for its original leather goods and utterly stunning scenery, this town is a great place for expats seeking a wallet-friendly, high-quality life.
Cotacachi is as picturesque as it gets. The streets are clean and safe. The local mercados brim with fresh, affordable produce, and you can walk just about anywhere. Buses and taxis are always on hand at the bus station and next to Parque Central. Cotacachi has a small private clinic and an IESS hospital. But for anything more serious, you'll be making a trip to Quito.
With only about 9,000 people, Cotacachi might feel a tad too small if you're a city slicker.
- Rent: For $450 a month, you can rent a lovely, spacious 3-bed apartment with stunning mountain views.
- Travel: The closest airport is Quito, which is about a 90-minute drive away.
- Climate and weather: The temperature in Otavalo hovers around a comfortable 60°F (15°C) year-round. It tends to be cooler and cloudier.
- Altitude: 2,418 meters (7,933 ft) above sea level, which is pretty high.
6. Ibarra
Welcome to Ibarra, the "White City" nestled among lakes and mountains. With its lovely whitewashed houses, Ibarra offers a mild climate, low cost of living, and jaw-dropping views of the Imbabura and Cotacachi volcanoes.
Old-world cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and bustling markets give Ibarra a charming character. Just 70 kilometers (43 miles) north of Quito, Ibarra is the quieter, more affordable cousin of the capital while being within easy drive for day trips and accessing major amenities of the capital.
For the adventurers out there, Ibarra is perfect. The surrounding mountains have hiking and biking trails. Yahuarcocha Lake, just a stone's throw away, is ideal for boating and fishing.
- Rent: For $700 a month, you can rent a beautiful country home with mountain views. You can find a 2-bed apartment for around $500, but they're not easy to come by. The city is very tourist-oriented, and many rentals are short-term.
- Travel: The Quito airport is about 60 kilometers (37 miles) from Ibarra.
- Climate and weather: Like other Andean cities, Ibarra enjoys a spring-like climate year-round, with temperatures averaging 15-22°C (59-72°F) and minimal seasonal variation. While generally pleasant, it can be chilly and damp, especially compared to coastal areas, with frequent afternoon rain showers.
- Altitude:2,200 meters (7,200 ft) above sea level
The rainforest locations
The eastern rainforest of Ecuador – vast, stunning, and teeming with wildlife. It's very popular with tourists, but less so with expats due to its remoteness. However, for those expats with a taste for adventure, there is one location that truly stands out - Puyo.
7. Puyo
Puyo, tucked away in the heart of the Amazon rainforest, is an absolute treat for nature lovers. With its stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and lush greenery, it offers the jungle, rivers, waterfalls, and endless trails right at your doorstep.
For the adventurous, Puyo is paradise. You can hike through dense rainforests, go white-water rafting, birdwatch to your heart's content, or uncover hidden waterfalls.
On the downside, Puyo moves at a slower pace with fewer amenities, shopping spots, and entertainment options. It's all about embracing the laid-back lifestyle and natural beauty. Plus, it's a bit off the beaten path, far from major cities and airports.
- Rent: For $400 a month, you can rent a 2-bed apartment.
- Travel: The closest airport to Puyo is Shell Mera Airport, 7 km (4.4 miles) away, offering limited domestic flights. For more options and international flights, use Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) in Quito, 157 km (97 miles) away.
- Climate and weather: Puyo has a warm, humid climate year-round, with temperatures between 20-28°C (68-82°F). While you won't face cold weather, expect frequent rain showers and high humidity. It might feel uncomfortable if you prefer drier climates, and you'll need to deal with regular mosquito activity.
- Altitude:1,650 feet (500 meters) above sea level
The coastal locations
8. Salinas
Welcome to Salinas, the beach town that’s all about sun, surf, and endless fun. With its stunning coastline, this place is perfect for soaking up the sun, swimming, and tackling the waves with a surfboard or diving gear. It’s a great spot for the active, offering everything from beach volleyball to fitness activities. As the sun sets, the lively nightlife kicks in with countless bars and restaurants.
The expat community is pretty big. But be warned, outside of peak vacation periods, Salinas quiets down. Fewer tourists and closed businesses can make it feel a bit sleepy.
Unlike other Ecuadorian cities, Salinas doesn’t fuss much over history or cultural attractions. Here, it’s all about the beach life and nightlife. If you want sun, sand, and a good time, Salinas is your spot.
- Rent: For $800 a month, you can rent a 2-bed apartment with sea views.
- Travel: The nearest airport to Salinas is General Ulpiano Paez Airport, just a few kilometers away, with limited regional flights. For more options, including international flights, use José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport in Guayaquil, 185 kilometers (115 miles) from Salinas.
- Climate and weather: A warm and sunny climate year-round with average temperatures ranging from 22-28°C (72-82°F).
- Altitude: 21 ft (6 m) above sea level
9. Bahía de Caráquez
Bahía de Caráquez, a true coastal treasure, is the epitome of laid-back living. Known for its eco-friendliness and stunning beaches, it's a great spot for retirees seeking a cozy coastal retreat.
The town is peaceful and quiet, offering a much slower pace than the big cities. Beyond the beaches, you've got mangroves, wildlife refuges, and nearby islands to explore.
On the downside, the place lacks the big city amenities—no massive shopping malls or buzzing cultural scenes here. It’s a bit off the beaten path, so expect scenic but slow coastal roads to get to larger cities or airports. Medical facilities are basic, so for anything major, you might need a trip to a bigger town.
Also, when the tourists leave, the town quiets down, and some businesses shutter temporarily. It’s tranquil, yes, but perhaps a bit too quiet for some.
- Rent: For $700 a month, you can rent a nice 2-bed apartment.
- Travel: The nearest airport is Eloy Alfaro International Airport in Manta, 60 km (37 miles) away, with regular domestic flights. For more options, use José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport in Guayaquil, 198 km (123 miles) away, or Mariscal Sucre International Airport in Quito, 235 km (146 miles) away.
- Climate and weather: a warm and sunny climate year-round, with temperatures averaging between 24-29°C (75-84°F). It's perfect for escaping colder climates without enduring extreme heat.
- Altitude: 70 meters (228.60 feet) above sea level
10. Manta
Manta, the lively port city, is famous for its seafood and bustling markets. The beaches? Absolutely stunning – soft sand, rolling waves, perfect for a dip, sunbathing, or tackling the surf.
If you're into an active lifestyle, Manta's a great spot for you. You can do water sports, hiking, and biking along the picturesque Malecón. And when the sun sets, the city comes alive with bars and restaurants that keep the nightlife buzzing.
Here, you have shopping malls, grocery stores, hospitals, and banks – everything you need for a hassle-free life.
While it might not be a historical or cultural mecca, Manta more than makes up for it with its focus on beaches and outdoor adventures. If you’re after sun, sea, and a bit of excitement, Manta is the place to be.
- Rent: A nice 2-bedroom apartment can be yours for $450 a month. A budget of $800 puts you in luxury territory.
- Travel: Manta’s airport, Eloy Alfaro International Airport, offers regular domestic flights to Quito and Guayaquil and some international connections. For more international options, use José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport (GYE) in Guayaquil, located about 190 kilometers (118 miles) from Manta.
- Climate and weather: A warm and sunny climate year-round, with average temperatures ranging from 22-28°C (72-82°F). It also gets pretty windy here.
- Altitude: 6 meters (20 feet) above sea level
A bonus for adventurous souls: Puerto Lopez
If you want to experience the true essence of Ecuador without too much international influence, Puerto López is your ultimate coastal escape.
It's a small fishing town and seaside resort with a laid-back lifestyle and stunning beaches and natural parks. It offers soft sands, calm waters, and fantastic whale-watching opportunities.
If you love nature and a tight-knit community, Puerto López is your spot. Explore Isla de la Plata and Machalilla National Park, packed with wildlife and archaeological treasures.
On the downside, the place is a bit remote, and the roads are scenic but slow. Guayaquil is about 3 hours away, and a bus ride to Quito and Cuenca can take up to 8 hours.
Medical facilities are basic, and the town might lack big-city amenities. And it gets quieter during the off-season. And yes, learning Spanish is crucial.
- Rent: A nice 2-bedroom apartment can be yours for $450 a month. You can rent a large house with a view of Puerto Lopez Bay for $1000 per month.
- Travel: nearby Eloy Alfaro International Airport in Manta, about 122 km (76 miles) away, offers domestic flights to Quito and Guayaquil. For international flights, use José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport in Guayaquil, 208 km (129 miles) away.
- Climate and weather: Puerto López enjoys a warm and sunny climate throughout the year, with average temperatures ranging from 24-28°C (75-82°F)
- Altitude: 10 meters (33 feet) above sea level
To sum up
So there you have it, the crème de la crème of retirement spots in Ecuador! From the colonial charm of Cuenca to the sun-kissed beaches of Salinas and the serene beauty of Vilcabamba, Ecuador has a great spot for everyone. Swap your winter coat for a Panama hat, your morning commute for a leisurely riverside walk, and your everyday grind for a life of adventure and discovery.
FAQs about the top expat locations in Ecuador
1. Which popular expat location in Ecuador is the most affordable?
The title of most affordable goes to Loja. This charming city offers a lower cost of living while still providing modern amenities, good travel links and a welcoming atmosphere. You get all the benefits for a reasonable price.
2. Which city is the most convenient and has the best infrastructure?
Quito takes the crown for convenience and infrastructure. As the capital, it has excellent healthcare, modern amenities, efficient public transport, and a thriving cultural scene. It’s a bustling hub where you can find everything you need without any hassle.
3. Where in Ecuador is the best weather all year round?
Cuenca is renowned for its near-perfect, spring-like weather throughout the year. With temperatures averaging around 58°F (14°C), you get a comfortable climate without the extremes – ideal for enjoying outdoor activities any time.
4. Which coastal city in Ecuador is favored most by expats?
Salinas is the top coastal choice for expats. With its stunning beaches, modern amenities, and lively social scene, this seaside location gives you the best combination of convenience, entertainment and beach lifestyle.
5. Why are the Ecuadorian rainforest locations not very popular with expats?
While the Ecuadorian rainforest is breathtakingly beautiful, it’s not everyone’s cup of tea. The remote locations, high humidity, frequent rainfall, and limited access to services and amenities make it less appealing for many expats seeking a more comfortable and accessible lifestyle.
6. Which Ecuadorian city has the biggest expat community?
Cuenca boasts the largest expat community in Ecuador. Its colonial charm, pleasant climate, and affordable living attract retirees and expats from all over the world, creating a vibrant and diverse community.
7. Where in Ecuador can I live comfortably with very little Spanish?
If you want to live comfortably in Ecuador without speaking Spanish, head to Cuenca. It's a top spot for expats, and English is widely spoken here.
You’ll find plenty of social clubs, English-speaking businesses, and even healthcare providers who cater to non-Spanish speakers. Other good options include Quito and Salinas, where you’ll also find sizable expat communities and English-speaking locals.
Although there are spots where you can get by with very little Spanish, learning the language is important. Speaking Spanish shows respect and appreciation. So, download Duolingo, join a local language school, and watch your new neighbors appreciate your effort. ¡Buena suerte!
You might find useful:
- Living In Ecuador As An Expat - a detailed guide on visas, healthcare, paperwork, and other aspects of moving to and settling down in Ecuador.
