For those not able to commit long term, renting is the only really viable option as far as housing is concerned, and while there good deals to be had when buying property, renting skips over a lot of the costs and hassle associated with getting a mortgage. You’ll have the added advantages of not having to pay for maintenance or repairs, and if you find you don't like the area, it's much easier to move.
Where to rent and costs
As well as being Ecuador’s cultural and political capital, Quito is one of Ecuador’s most popular places to move to. It has every kind of amenity you could wish for and provides the biggest range of options in terms of employment. Along with the second city Guayaquil, you’ll also find the most rental options here. Both cities have a real mix of different areas each with its own character, as well as a good range of different properties to choose from.
A house or large apartment in the most expensive parts of both cities can cost anywhere from US$500 to US$1,000 per month. If you willing to live in a less exclusive part of town, expect to pay as little as US$200.
Moving to other parts of the country can save you even more money. For retired expats, Cuenca is a popular destination. Its attractions are numerous: a beautiful UNESCO World Heritage colonial centre and a vibrant cultural scene, all without the crowds, pollution and traffic of Quito or Guayaquil. In 2011 it was voted the best city in the world to retire to on the basis of its many strengths. One of these is the low cost of rent: a luxury city-centre apartment can be had for US$500 per month.
It’s also possible to move to more remote parts of the country, including the amazonian Oriente region, though here the market is naturally more inclined towards buying rather than renting.
The pacific coast is an attractive option for those who want neither the cold nights of the Andean highlands nor the stifling heat of the eastern jungles. Manta, also a popular option with retirees, offers warm weather and pristine beaches. Basic two bedroom apartments can be found for under US$150 per month here, though you can pay a lot more.