What do I need to know before moving to Cuenca?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Cuenca, they said...
"Cuenca is a beautiful and unique city with many attractions and amenities to offer. It is important to be aware of the cultural norms and the climate before moving to Cuenca. The Ecuadorian people are very welcoming and friendly; however, language can be a barrier and it is best to learn some Spanish beforehand. The climate in Cuenca is temperate year-round, with temperatures typically ranging from 60-75°F. Since the city is located at 8,500 feet above sea level, the air is clean and dry. Expats should also research the cost of living in Cuenca, as it tends to be lower than what expats might be used to in the states. Finally, expats should plan ahead and make sure they have all their paperwork and visas in order before making the move," said a member in Cuenca, Ecuador, Ecuador.
VRBO Vacation RentalsLearn More
With over 2 million bookable vacation rentals, Vrbo connects homeowners with families and vacationers looking for something more than a hotel for their trip. The Vrbo community offers families an array of rental property types such as condos, cabins, lake rentals, beach houses, and more. Discover properties in destinations that everyone dreams of visiting.
VRBO Vacation RentalsWith over 2 million bookable vacation rentals, Vrbo connects homeowners with families and vacationers looking for something more than a hotel for their trip. The Vrbo community offers families an array of rental property types such as condos, cabins, lake rentals, beach houses, and more. Discover properties in destinations that everyone dreams of visiting.
Learn More
"Gringos are the preferred tenants in Ecuador. The reasons why will be of interest. 1. Ecuadorian law is ALL in favor of the tenant. So Ecuadorians will often not pay and it takes ages to evict them. 2. Though the leases may say different, the Law takes precedence. For example, if they turn your water, gas, electricity off, they are breaking the Law and liable for all damages. My suggestion is to: A. stay in a B&B (there are many at 25$ a day) B. Scope the areas suggested here to find one that suits you. C. if necessary, hire a facilitator (they are bilingual translators at 4$/hr+) to help with the language or suggestions. https://yapatree.com/cuenca-facilitators-make-life-easier/ D. Go to buildings in the areas you liked and ask the doormen if anything is for rent. The search investment is well worth your time," remarked another expat who made the move to Cuenca, Ecuador.
Please login to continue reading this article.
Not a member? Join Today (it's free).
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Cuenca?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Cuenca?
- Will I be able to find a job in Cuenca?
- What is life like in Cuenca?
- What do expats in Cuenca appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Cuenca?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Cuenca accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Cuenca like?
- What are healthcare services like in Cuenca?
- What are medical services in Cuenca like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Cuenca?
- What are emergency services like in Cuenca?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Cuenca?
- How are local medical facilities in Cuenca?
- As a foreigner living in Cuenca, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
What do I need to know before moving to Cuenca?
If you live in Cuenca, newcomers to Cuenca would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of InternationalTravel.ai and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and InternationalTravel.ai, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

