Cuenca
Ecuador
Updated on August 08, 2025
Overview
Cuenca is Ecuador's third-largest city, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its colonial architecture. Located in the Andes, it offers a temperate climate year-round and is considered one of the best retirement cities in Latin America.
Average cost of living€1,255.00
Quality of Life75/100
Accommodation
Rent room (flat-share)€200.00
1-bed flat (center)€400.00
1-bed flat (outside)€300.00
3-bed flat (center)€800.00
3-bed flat (outside)€600.00
Utilities
Basic utilities€80.00
Internet€30.00
Mobile plan€15.00
Transportation
One-way ticket€0.30
Monthly pass€30.00
Taxi start€1.50
Gasoline (1 l)€2.46
Leisure
Cinema ticket€6.00
Fitness club€35.00
Education
Preschool (month)€150.00
Intl. primary (year)€2,500.00
Buying House
sqm in city center€1,200.00
sqm outside center€800.00
Advantages
- ✓ UNESCO World Heritage Site with well-preserved colonial architecture
- ✓ Pleasant temperate climate year-round
- ✓ Relatively low cost of living compared to other international destinations
- ✓ Excellent public and private healthcare system
- ✓ Large expat community
- ✓ Rich culture and artisanal traditions
- ✓ Proximity to natural sites like Cajas National Park
Disadvantages
- × Altitude of 2,500 meters may cause initial altitude sickness
- × Limited employment options for foreigners
- × Congested traffic in the historic center
- × Rainy season can be prolonged
- × Less nightlife compared to larger cities
- × Some services may be slow or bureaucratic