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| Retirement Property, Cotaccachi, Ecuador |
13 Reasons Why We Chose Cotacachi, Ecuador for Retirement
Three or four years ago, Dana and I began exploring retirement destinations. While we love our homeland of Canada, it didn't feel like the right fit for our retirement years. We developed a vision of our ideal location and started researching possibilities online.
After mentally placing ourselves in dozens of potential retirement locations, Cotacachi, Ecuador, stood out as the right choice. In summer 2024, Dana and Kirsi travelled there on a fact-finding mission, touring available properties and getting a feel for local homes. They left Quito feeling certain they had found their retirement paradise.
Perfect Year-Round Weather
The weather is spring-like year-round because of its altitude and proximity to the equator. The climate stays comfortable and mild throughout the year, with temperatures rarely getting too hot or too cold. This means low humidity, which was important to us. International Living Magazine ranked Ecuador 2nd in their Climate category - tied with Colombia.
Very Low Cost of Living
Many retirees live comfortably in Cotacachi, Ecuador, on just $1,000 a month. We found the costs to be very low, which will help our retirement dollars stretch further. Three dozen eggs cost $3.00 USD.
Beautiful Mountain Scenery
The town sits in the Andes Mountains with stunning views all around. Our property has a small stream and views of both Cotacachi and Imbabura volcanoes. (photos here)
Welcoming Expat Community
Cotacachi has a small but vibrant expat community, with retirees from the United States, Canada, and Europe who have made it their home. The community is welcoming and regularly hosts social events, making it easy for newcomers to form friendships. Unlike larger retirement destinations such as Cuenca, the expat population here remains manageable, visible but still very much a minority within the broader community.
Small-Town Peaceful Lifestyle
Cotacachi offers a quiet and relaxed way of life that many retirees love. The pace is slower than in big cities, and the town has a safe, friendly feel where people know their neighbours.
Good Healthcare Access
Ecuador offers quality healthcare at much lower costs than North America. Many expats find they can get excellent medical care without the high prices they're used to back home.
Easy to Get Around
The town is walkable, and many daily needs can be met on foot. For longer trips, Cotacachi is about an hour and a half from Quito, Ecuador's capital city. A ten-minute walk from our property and we're in town.
Fresh Food Year-Round
The area has access to fresh fruits and vegetables all year long. Local markets offer healthy, organic options at very low prices.
Language Barrier Stress
With a large English-speaking expat community, you can get by while learning Spanish at your own pace. Many locals are also patient with newcomers learning the language. I have a lot of work to do in this regard to be better prepared to live there.
Simple Visa Process
Ecuador makes it relatively easy for retirees to get residency, especially if you have a pension or social security income. As with all government processes, paperwork needs to be completed and hoops to jump through, but Ecuador makes it easier compared to most other countries. In fact, International Living Magazine ranks Ecuador 4th of the 20 countries they list as retirement destinations.
Cultural Richness
The area is rich in indigenous culture and history. You can experience traditional markets, festivals, and crafts while enjoying a slower pace of life. The Kichwa community is strong and visible.
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