Ecuador uses the US dollar, has spring-like weather in the Andes and warm beaches on the coast, and offers a pension visa with a modest income bar. The hard part is choosing where. Here are the six places that come up again and again, with realistic 2026 couple budgets.
Cuenca: the all-rounder
A UNESCO-listed colonial city at about 2,500 m, with the country’s largest English-speaking expat community, good private hospitals and a walkable historic centre. Couples typically spend $1,600–$2,500 a month, and furnished two-bedroom flats start around $600–$900. Best for: people who want culture, services and community.
Cotacachi: Andean village life
About two hours north of Quito, near Cuicocha crater lake and the Otavalo market, Cotacachi is known as the leather capital. Couple budgets run about $1,200–$1,800, with rentals of $400–$700. Best for: quiet, affordable highland living with Quito within reach.
Vilcabamba: the Valley of Longevity
A mild, green valley 45 minutes south of Loja, with a wellness-minded community. Couples report $1,200–$1,500 a month, and furnished homes rent for under $600. The trade-off is limited healthcare and amenities: the nearest larger hospital is in Loja.
Salinas: the classic beach resort
High-rise condos along the malecón on the Santa Elena peninsula. Couples spend about $1,600–$2,400. Off-season (May–November) two-bedroom condos can be found for $500–$700, but prices rise from December to April. Budget for HOA fees of $80–$200 and air conditioning.
Manta: the coastal city
A working port city with modern hospitals, an international-style mall and beaches like Barbasquillo. Couples live on roughly $1,600–$2,300. Ocean-view condos cost about $600–$850, and inland flats from $400–$550. It is also 20 minutes from the kite beach at Santa Marianita.
Also worth a look
Quito, for big-city life and the main international airport (about 20–30% pricier than Cuenca). Olón and Puerto López, for small-town beach life. Loja, for a calm university city near Vilcabamba.
Before you move
Rent for six to twelve months before buying, and try both the highlands and the coast. Also check the visa rules: the jubilado (pension) visa requires a foreign pension of at least three basic salaries, which is $1,446 a month in 2026, plus $250 for each dependant and health insurance valid in Ecuador.
Sources
- Expat Ecuador – Cotacachi, Vilcabamba and Salinas
- International Living – Best Places to Live in Ecuador 2026
- Xpatz – Retire in Ecuador 2026
- Your Ecuador Life – Top expat-friendly cities
- Gob.ec – Jubilado temporary residence visa
Prices and requirements checked in October 2026 and subject to change. Always confirm with the official source.