Ecuador
Cost of living in Quito
Quito is Ecuador's capital, stretched along an Andean valley at about 2,850 m. Ecuador uses the US dollar, so prices here carry no exchange-rate risk for people earning in USD. The city's first metro line opened in December 2023.
What it costs to live in Quito
On an average lifestyle in a 1-bed apartment, Quito comes to an estimated $985 a month: the 7th lowest of 19 cities and 8% below the median of this dataset ($1,073). Rent makes up 49% of the total. You would spend less on rent.
| Lifestyle | Room | 1-bed apartment | Family apartment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frugal | $440 | $685 | $1,020 |
| Average | $720 | $985 | $1,405 |
| Comfortable | $1,075 | $1,385 | $1,925 |
Every figure is a modeled estimate in US dollars, not an individually observed price. Q1–Q2 2026 data, not re-verified since. Methodology
Your budget in Quito
Adjust the household, lifestyle and any category.
Monthly breakdown by category
One person, 1-bed apartment, average lifestyle. Median = the middle city of all 19.
| Category | Quito | % of total | Median |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent | $480 | 49% | $540 |
| Groceries | $190 | 19% | $200 |
| Transport | $40 | 4% | $40 |
| Utilities | $55 | 6% | $58 |
| Internet | $30 | 3% | $28 |
| Coworking | $100 | 10% | $100 |
| Entertainment | $90 | 9% | $100 |
| Total per month | $985 | 100% | $1,073 |
Housing in Quito
Before signing, always ask about the deposit, any rent paid in advance, whether a guarantor is required and who pays utilities and building fees. These terms vary between landlords and are not fixed legal requirements.
Moving to Quito
Visa and residency rules in Ecuador depend on your nationality and circumstances. Always check the official website of Ecuador's migration authority or its nearest consulate. Nothing on this page is legal advice.