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The cost of living is one of Ecuador’s top selling points.
Ecuador is about as inexpensive as it gets in Latin America. The savings come not just from cheaper goods and services but a lifestyle change. This also applies to the city of Manta as well.
Instead of the two cars in the driveway most expat couples had before leaving North America, most have none in Ecuador.
Expats get by with public transportation, resulting in hundreds of dollars in savings per month. But a car is important if you decide to set camp in one of Manta’s beach communities.
A taxi costs about US$3, and bus fare is 30 cents (half-price for seniors).
Manta’s regional bus terminal is open 24 hours, all year round. It’s five minutes away from the Manta International Airport and 800 meters from the commercial center of the city.
The biggest savings in Manta, Ecuador, are in housing. The average purchase price is less than 50% compared to property in the States. You can also save on utilities, as most homes in Ecuador don’t require heating.
Rent for a fully furnished, two-bedroom, two-bathroom condo with an ocean view can cost US$800 per month (including utilities). Monthly rent for luxury condos can go as high as US$1,300. Overall, Manta offers top real estate values in Ecuador.
Country-wide, the cost of living in Ecuador is inexpensive as it gets in Latin America.
Within Ecuador, cities like Cuenca and Loja have lower living costs. In fact, they are among the cheapest you’ll find for cities that still have the full complement of city amenities.
