Moving to Quito, Ecuador

"Before moving to Quito, expats should be aware of the city's high elevation – reaching up to 2850 meters (9352 feet) above sea level – which may cause certain medical complications. They should also research the cost of living in Quito, as prices may differ from those of their home country significantly. Expats should furthermore familiarize themselves with the local language and culture, as English is not widely spoken in the city and Ecuadorian culture is distinct from other Latin American countries. Additionally, expats should make sure to have the most up-to-date vaccinations and get acquainted with the city's public transportation system. Finally, expats are highly recommended to get travel and health insurance before settling in Quito," remarked one expat who made the move to Quito, Ecuador.

"Come visit first, stay in a travelers hostel if you want to meet people, doesn't matter your age...see where you want to live, then check the local paper to find rental listings..," explained one expat living in Quito, Ecuador.

"Not easy... I was offered a teaching job at PUCE , then denied it when my papers came through very late but I knew the barrio where I wanted to live -- however, it has gone up in price and there were few options available. I walked around in the neighborhood I wanted to finally settle in and found what I need. This is a HIGHLY RECOMMENDED way to discover a good apt in Quito," replied a member in Quito.

"One way to find a place to live in Quito is to use online resources such as Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and websites like olx.com. Additionally, you can consider contacting local real estate agents if you would like assistance in your search. Looking at local newspapers and digital listings can also be a great way to find an apartment in Quito. Finally, if you’re looking for an affordable option, you may find luck in negotiating with local landlords directly," commented one expat who made the move to Quito, Ecuador.

"A typical expat home or apartment in Quito is usually modern and spacious, with large windows offering beautiful natural light and magnificent views of the surrounding mountains. Many apartments come with contemporary, open plan designs and full kitchen amenities, whereas others feature colonial-style buildings and high-ceilinged apartments with Spanish-tiled courtyards. In addition, most expat homes and apartments offer high-end security systems and off-street parking, making them very safe and secure," remarked one expat who made the move to Quito, Ecuador.

"A "suite" or two rooms and bath, lovely little place, good dueno and furnished nicely with condominio fee monthly it's $460. in the swanky neightborhood of Gonzalez Suarez. Noise here is bad," explained one expat living in Quito, Ecuador.

"The cost of housing in Quito varies greatly depending on size and location. However, both short-term and long-term rentals tend to be on the lower end of the international market, and for those who are looking for a more permanent living situation, rent for a one-bedroom apartment can range from $200 to $500 per month. Longterm rental costs for a two-bedroom apartment range from $500 to $1,000 per month," remarked one expat who made the move to Quito, Ecuador.

"Much lower. I bought an apartment for under $30k and I have rented another for just $150 a month," explained one expat living in Quito, Ecuador.

"Buying a home in Quito could potentially be a great investment, as the city is known for its strong real-estate market and growing economy. Purchasing a home in Quito can also be a good option if you plan to stay and live in the city long-term. Renting a home in Quito can be a great option for those who need a bit more flexibility or are only intending to stay in the city for a relatively short amount of time. Ultimately, whether you decide to buy or rent a home in Quito comes down to your personal preference and situation," said one expat who made the move to Quito, Ecuador.

"More books - not the Kindle I was given --personal effects, small paintings, items you love at home (small and transport friendly) Nothing in 2nd category," remarked one expat who made the move to Quito.

"It is important to be mindful of local customs and traditions when visiting Quito. Show respect by dressing modestly, avoiding public displays of affection, and being mindful of conversational topics such as religion or politics. As in many countries, it is considered rude to discuss someone's income or to discuss negative aspects of Ecuadorian culture. Additionally, it is important to be respectful of the country's laws, including those regarding drug and alcohol use. Finally, it is important to ask before taking photographs of people or places that are considered sacred in Quito, Ecuador," explained one expat living in Quito, Ecuador, Ecuador.

"Quito is an attractive destination for expats due to its vibrant culture, stunning natural beauty, and affordable cost of living. The city is home to a diverse population, with a mix of modern and traditional influences, making it a great place to experience a unique culture. The city is also surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery, with plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. Additionally, the cost of living in Quito is much lower than in many other cities, making it an attractive option for expats looking to stretch their budget," wrote one expat living in Quito.

"Quito offers a wide range of healthcare services, including both public and private hospitals and clinics. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and provides free or low-cost services to citizens. Private healthcare facilities offer more specialized services and are often more expensive. Both public and private facilities offer general medical care, emergency services, and specialized care such as obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, and cardiology. Additionally, there are a number of pharmacies in Quito that provide over-the-counter medications and other health-related products," commented one expat who moved to Quito.

"Go to the best hospital instead of the government hospital. Use the private clinics for basic healthcare and pay out of pocket," said one expat.

"My health insurance is with IESS and I've been completely satisfied with the care I've received. I have high cholesterol and a family history of heart disease. When the doctors at the IESS hospital learned this they ordered a complete lipid profile, an EKG, treadmill stress test and echocardiogram and placed me on a statin drug for my cholesterol and a drug for high blood pressure," remarked one expat in Quito.

"Quito offers a wide range of medical services, including both public and private hospitals and clinics. The public hospitals are generally well-equipped and staffed with experienced medical professionals, while the private hospitals offer more specialized services and often have shorter wait times. In addition, there are a number of pharmacies and medical supply stores throughout the city, providing access to a variety of medications and medical supplies. Quito also has a number of medical tourism companies that offer services such as cosmetic surgery, dental care, and fertility treatments," wrote one expat living in Quito.