🌍 Overview
Quito, the capital of Ecuador, is a city that seamlessly blends history, culture, and natural beauty, making it an attractive destination for digital nomads. As a Quito digital nomad myself, I can attest that the city’s unique vibe, with its well-preserved colonial architecture and stunning Andean backdrop, is a major draw for remote workers. The city’s relatively low cost of living, rich cultural scene, and access to modern amenities also make it an ideal location for those looking to balance work and play. With a Nomad Score of 54/100, Quito is not perfect, but its strengths outweigh its weaknesses, making it a great choice for those seeking a mix of adventure, culture, and productivity.
🏘️ Best Neighborhoods for Digital Nomads
When it comes to choosing a neighborhood in Quito, digital nomads have several options to consider. Here are a few of my favorites:
- La Mariscal: This upscale neighborhood is known for its vibrant nightlife, trendy restaurants, and bars. It’s also home to many coworking spaces, making it a great option for remote workers who want to be in the heart of the action. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in La Mariscal can range from $250 to $400 per month (approximately 800,000 to 1,200,000 ECU).
- El Centro: Quito’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and for good reason. The stunning colonial architecture, picturesque plazas, and lively markets make it a unique and inspiring place to live and work. However, be prepared for crowds and noise, as it’s a popular tourist area. A one-bedroom apartment in El Centro can cost between $200 and $350 per month (approximately 600,000 to 1,000,000 ECU).
- Guapulo: This charming neighborhood is located just outside of the city center and offers a more laid-back, bohemian vibe. It’s home to many artists, musicians, and writers, and has a thriving expat community. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Guapulo can range from $150 to $300 per month (approximately 450,000 to 900,000 ECU).
- Batan Alto: This neighborhood is a bit further from the city center, but offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains. It’s a great option for those who want to be close to nature and have easy access to hiking trails. A one-bedroom apartment in Batan Alto can cost between $100 and $250 per month (approximately 300,000 to 750,000 ECU).
Cost of Living Breakdown
The cost of living in Quito is relatively low compared to other major cities in South America. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to pay for typical expenses:
- Rent: As mentioned earlier, rent for a one-bedroom apartment can range from $100 to $400 per month (approximately 300,000 to 1,200,000 ECU), depending on the neighborhood and amenities.
- Food: Eating out in Quito can be very affordable, with a meal at a local restaurant costing around $3 to $5 (approximately 9,000 to 15,000 ECU). Groceries are also relatively cheap, with a basket of basic items (milk, bread, eggs, chicken, and vegetables) costing around $20 to $30 (approximately 60,000 to 90,000 ECU) per week.
- Transportation: Quito has a comprehensive public transportation system, including buses and taxis. A one-way bus ticket costs around $0.25 (approximately 750 ECU), while a taxi ride can cost between $2 and $5 (approximately 6,000 to 15,000 ECU), depending on the distance.
- Coworking: Coworking spaces in Quito typically cost between $100 and $200 per month (approximately 300,000 to 600,000 ECU) for a full-time membership.
Internet & Coworking
Quito has a growing number of coworking spaces and cafes with good internet connectivity. Some popular options include:
- Selina Quito: This coworking space and hotel hybrid offers high-speed internet, comfortable workspaces, and a range of amenities, including a gym and restaurant. Prices start at around $150 per month (approximately 450,000 ECU) for a full-time membership.
- La Oficina: This coworking space is located in the heart of La Mariscal and offers fast internet, meeting rooms, and a relaxed atmosphere. Prices start at around $100 per month (approximately 300,000 ECU) for a part-time membership.
- Café Dios No Muere: This cozy cafe in El Centro offers good internet, delicious coffee, and a lively atmosphere. It’s a great spot to work remotely, with prices starting at around $2 (approximately 6,000 ECU) for a cup of coffee.
Quito has a growing digital nomad community, with many expats and remote workers calling the city home. Some popular meetups and events for digital nomads include:
- Quito Digital Nomads: This Facebook group is a great resource for connecting with other remote workers in the city, finding coworking spaces, and getting tips on the best places to eat and drink.
- Expats in Quito: This group is geared towards expats living in Quito, but is also a great resource for digital nomads looking to connect with others in the community.
- Startup Grind Quito: This monthly meetup is focused on entrepreneurship and startup culture, and is a great place to network with other remote workers and entrepreneurs.
Culture & Lifestyle
Quito is a city with a rich cultural heritage, and there’s always something to do or see. Some popular activities and events include:
- Fiestas de Quito: This annual festival takes place in December and celebrates the city’s founding with music, dance, and food.
- Museo Nacional del Ecuador: This museum is a great place to learn about Ecuadorian history and culture, with a range of exhibits and artifacts on display.
- Parque La Carolina: This large park is a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors, with walking trails, a lake, and plenty of green space.
The dating scene in Quito is also lively, with many bars and clubs to choose from. Some popular spots for singles include:
- La Mariscal: This neighborhood is known for its vibrant nightlife, with many bars and clubs to choose from.
- El Centro: The historic center is also home to many bars and restaurants, and is a great place to meet new people.
Ecuador offers a range of visa options for digital nomads, including:
- Tourist Visa: This visa is valid for up to 90 days and can be extended for an additional 90 days.
- Temporary Resident Visa: This visa is valid for up to one year and requires a minimum income of $800 per month (approximately 2,400,000 ECU).
- Retirement Visa: This visa is valid for up to one year and requires a minimum income of $800 per month (approximately 2,400,000 ECU) from a pension or retirement fund.
It’s worth noting that Ecuador has a relatively straightforward visa process, and many digital nomads choose to live in the country on a tourist visa.
💡 Practical Tips
Here are a few practical tips to keep in mind when living in Quito:
- SIM Cards: You can purchase a SIM card at the airport or at a local phone store, with prices starting at around $10 (approximately 30,000 ECU) for a basic plan.
- Transportation: Quito has a comprehensive public transportation system, including buses and taxis. You can also use ride-hailing apps like Uber and Cabify.
- Safety: Quito is generally a safe city, but as with any major city, it’s a good idea to take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings. Avoid walking alone at night, and use reputable taxi services.
- Weather: Quito has a mild climate year-round, with average temperatures ranging from 50 to 75°F (10 to 24°C). However, the city can experience heavy rainfall during the winter months (June to September), so be sure to pack accordingly.
