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Cost of living in Ecuador: Food, transport, and more
Discover the cost of living in Ecuador in 2025 in dollars and euros and learn how to adjust your budget to make the most of your stay.
If you’re planning to move, knowing the cost of living in Ecuador is key for effective budgeting. This article gives you a clear overview of what to expect in terms of prices for housing, food, transport, healthcare, internet, and leisure activities.
Ecuador combines a relatively low cost of living compared with many countries, though prices vary by city and lifestyle. For instance, transport costs and housing options differ a lot between a large city like Quito and a small town. Furthermore, leisure activities such as going to the cinema or enjoying local cuisine offer great value for money.
If you want to learn more about how to adjust your budget and what to expect across each area, keep reading. Discover the key figures that’ll help you make the best decision.
Average cost of accommodation in Ecuador
When you plan to move to Ecuador, accommodation cost is one of the first things to consider. Prices vary depending on the city and the type of place you choose. Below are average prices in key cities:
Mid-range hotels
In Quito and Guayaquil, the average cost per night in a mid-range hotel is $79 (€73). In smaller cities like Cuenca or Baños, it’s cheaper, usually between $50–70 (€46–64) per night.
Furnished apartments
If you prefer a furnished flat for long stays, prices vary by city:
- In Quito, a 1-bedroom flat in La Carolina or Cumbayá costs $400–600 (€368–552) monthly.
- In Guayaquil, a 2-bedroom flat in Samborondón or downtown costs around $500 (€460) monthly.
- In smaller cities like Cuenca or Ambato, furnished flats start from $250 (€230) monthly.
Co-living spaces
Colivings are increasingly popular in Ecuador, especially in cities with many digital nomads and young professionals:
- In Quito or Guayaquil, colivings cost $300–600 (€276–552) monthly. They usually include private rooms and shared spaces like kitchens, lounges, and co-working areas.
- In Cuenca or Manta, prices are lower, usually $250–450 (€230–414).
Airbnb
If you prefer the flexibility of Airbnb, costs depend on city and season:
- In Quito and Guayaquil, Airbnb nights start at $20 (€18), but in high season (holidays, festivals, events), prices rise to $30+ (€27). Monthly stays usually range between $300–800 (€276–736), depending on location and amenities. In low season, prices are more affordable.
- In smaller cities or tourist spots like Baños, Montañita, or Cuenca, prices also vary. In high season (December–February and holidays), rates start at $20 (€18) per night, while in low season you can find places from $15 (€14).
Cost of food in Ecuador
If you’re considering moving to Ecuador, it’s essential to know food costs to plan your budget effectively. Below, you’ll find average prices for supermarket basics and meals in local restaurants.
Prices of basic supermarket products
In traditional supermarket chains like Supermaxi and Tuti, average prices for basic items are:
| Product | Price (USD) | Price (EUR) |
|---|---|---|
| Pasta (500 g) | $0.45 | €0.41 |
| Eggs (dozen) | $2.00 | €1.80 |
| Milk (1L) | $1.20 | €1.08 |
| Beef (kg) | $6.00 | €5.40 |
| Chicken (kg) | $3.50 | €3.15 |
| Chocolate (100 g) | $0.89 | €0.80 |
| Coffee (250 g) | $1.85 | €1.66 |
These prices may vary slightly depending on the location and specific store. We recommend comparing across supermarkets to find the best deals.
Prices of meals in local restaurants
Meal costs in restaurants vary depending on type, location, and dish. Average prices are:
- Breakfast: In a local restaurant, a typical breakfast costs around $3.50 (€3.15).
- Lunch menu (executive meal): The average cost is $5.00 (€4.50).
- Dinner à la carte: On average $10 (€9), but prices rise depending on restaurant type and chosen dishes.
Cost of transport in Ecuador
In Ecuador, transport costs depend on the city and service type. From buses and metro to Uber and rentals, you’ll find efficient and affordable options. Fuel prices and taxi fares are also key factors when planning your daily travel.
Public transport system
Public transport fares vary by city and service, but overall remain affordable.
- In Quito: A bus ticket costs $0.35 (€0.32).
- In Guayaquil: Bus fares are also $0.35 (€0.32) per trip.
- In Cuenca and smaller cities: Tickets are slightly cheaper, between $0.25–0.30 (€0.23–0.27), depending on the area.
In Quito, an integrated transport system (Trolebús, Ecovía, Metro) offers a combined fare of $0.60 (€0.54).
Taxis and ride-hailing apps
Taxi fares change slightly by city and distance, but remain affordable:
- In Guayaquil, Cuenca, and Ambato, the base fare is $0.30 (€0.27) per kilometre.
- In Quito, the base fare is $0.30 per kilometre. A 3km trip usually costs $2–3 (€1.80–2.70).
Uber and similar platforms
Uber operates in Ecuador’s main cities. Prices depend on distance and vehicle type. The base fare is $0.60 (€0.54), while the kilometre rate is $0.25 (€0.23).
Fuel
Petrol in Ecuador is cheaper than in many countries thanks to government subsidies.
- Average petrol price: $2.52 (€2.27) per gallon. Prices are uniform nationwide but may vary slightly by province.
Premium petrol, outside the subsidy system, costs $3.42 (€3.08) per gallon.
Bike rentals
Bike rentals are affordable and popular, especially in tourist areas and big cities. In Quito, Baños, and Cuenca, daily rates range from $5 (€4.50) to $10 (€9). In Guayaquil, some companies offer hourly rentals starting at $1.50 (€1.35).
Cost of new vehicles
If you move to Ecuador, consider that new cars cost more due to import taxes. For instance, a Toyota Corolla 2025 costs about $22,000 (€19,800), while SUVs like the Chevrolet Tracker 2025 are around $30,000 (€27,000). These prices reflect the impact of tariffs and taxes, which considerably raise car costs. This matters if you plan to buy a vehicle upon arrival in the country.
Car insurance
Insurance cost depends on car value and coverage. Average annual premiums for mid-range cars range $250–500 (€225–450). Additionally, all cars must carry SPPAT, a mandatory system. Its yearly fee is usually $15–20 (€13.50–18), depending on vehicle type. These costs are important to consider if you’re moving to Ecuador as a digital nomad or student and plan to buy a vehicle.
Healthcare costs in Ecuador
In Ecuador, healthcare is available both publicly and privately. Foreigners can access the public system through the Ecuadorian Social Security Institute (IESS) with voluntary enrolment. For a couple, monthly enrolment costs about $95 (€86), covering consultations, hospitalisation, surgeries, and prescriptions. Public hospitals also provide free care, though quality and availability vary by region.
Prices of common medical services
- Average consultation cost: Specialist appointments vary by city. For example, at Vozandes Hospital, adult specialist visits cost $24 (€21.60).
- Common specialities: Gynaecology, cardiology, and neurology usually cost $35–70 (€31.50–63), depending on doctor and clinic.
- Private care costs: An appendicitis operation in a private clinic ranges $600–750 (€540–675), depending on centre and complexity. In the public system, it’s free for IESS members.
- Diagnostic tests: An MRI scan starts from $274 (€246.60), depending on clinic and location.
- Over-the-counter medicines: Usually cheaper than abroad. For example, paracetamol or ibuprofen costs $1–3 (€0.90–2.70), depending on brand and size. Most non-prescription medicines are widely available without a prescription in local pharmacies.
Internet and call plan prices
In Ecuador, fixed internet access differs by region, with 38% coverage in rural areas and 60% in urban zones. Average fixed download speeds reach 98.68 Mbps, equal to 12.33 MB/s or 0.12 GB/s.
Internet and mobile services in Ecuador
Main fixed internet providers include Netlife, offering up to 1 Gbps, perfect for streaming and video calls. Puntonet provides stable options up to 130 Mbps. Claro offers packages up to 100 Mbps, ideal for home or business, while CNT remains cheaper, though slower in rural areas.
Fixed internet plans cost $30–60 (€27–54) monthly. For mobile plans, Claro offers 1–20 GB packages, priced $5–25 (€4.50–22.50). Movistar has similar offers, including local and international minutes. CNT also sells mobile data plans, but coverage is weaker. Many packages include unlimited on-net calls and free use of apps like WhatsApp or Spotify.
Global connectivity with Holafly
If you want a global connectivity solution without hassle, Holafly offers monthly subscriptions covering 170+ countries, including Ecuador. Designed for digital nomads, travellers, and students, these plans keep you connected without buying local SIMs or paying roaming charges. Depending on the plan, you can share up to 500 MB daily, connecting multiple devices. Holafly provides access to 3G, 4G, and 5G networks where available. With instant eSIM activation for Ecuador, Holafly becomes a convenient and flexible choice for fast, reliable internet during your stay. Holafly global internet plans
Important: If you are a frequent traveler and want to stay connected without worrying about expensive roaming or looking for a new SIM at every destination, Holafly’s subscription plans are for you. With a single eSIM, enjoy internet in more than 170 countries for a fixed price and no surprises on your bill. Travel without limits and connect easily and securely! 🚀🌍
Cost of leisure activities in Ecuador
The cost of leisure activities in Ecuador varies by city and type, from cinemas, zoos, and theatres to iconic tourist attractions. Ecuador offers options for every budget and taste.
- Cinemas: Tickets at Supercines range $5.95–6.35 (€5.40–5.80) during promotions. Cineplex charges $6.60 (€6.00) for 2D and 3D shows.
- Zoos: Quito Zoo charges $7.00 (€6.30) for adults. Bioparque Amaru in Cuenca costs $9.00 (€8.10) for adults and $6.00 (€5.40) for children.
- Theatre: Tickets at Teatro Nacional Sucre for “Chicago” range $40–70 (€36–63). Teatro Patio de Comedias charges $8 (€7.20) presale, $15 (€13.50) at the box office.
- Streaming platforms: Netflix Ecuador plans start $5.74 (€5.20) for basic, up to $12.63 (€11.30) for premium. Disney+ ranges $3.99–7.99 (€3.60–7.20).
- TV packages: Claro TV ranges $12.88–15.46 (€11.60–14.00). Xtrim costs $23–33 (€20.70–29.70). CNT charges $20.50–28.50 (€18.50–25.80).
- Tourist attractions: Entry to Mitad del Mundo costs $2.50–5.00 (€2.30–4.50). Galápagos entry costs $100 (€90) for foreigners. Cotopaxi entry costs $10 (€9) for foreigners.
Frequently asked questions about the cost of living in Ecuador
Monthly living costs for a digital nomad in Ecuador range $700–1,200 (€640–1,100), depending on city and lifestyle, including rent, food, transport, and other expenses.
Living in rural Ecuador is cheaper than in major cities. Costs are lower, with cheaper housing, food, and transport.
Basic supermarket products are affordable. For example, a bottle of milk costs $1.20 (€1.10), and a kilo of rice ranges $1.50–2.00 (€1.35–1.80).
Living in the Galápagos Islands is more expensive than elsewhere in Ecuador due to remoteness. Monthly rents exceed $600 (€552), with higher food and transport costs.
