Ecuador

### Quito (The Capital, The Mountain City) **Best For:** Culture, amenities, healthcare, expat community, altitude lovers **Vibe:** Colonial, cosmopolitan, mountain setting, cool weather **Population:** 1.6M (city); 2.4M (metro) **Average Rent (1BR):** $600–$1,000 depending on neighborhood **Climate:** Cool year-round (55–70°F); rainy in afternoons #### Historic Center (Centro Histórico) - **Vibe:** Colonial, touristy, cultural, walkable - **Average Rent:** $700–$1,000 - **Why:** UNESCO World Heritage site, beautiful plazas, museums, markets - **Downsides:** Very touristy, crowded, street crime in certain blocks #### La Mariscal - **Vibe:** Bohemian, artsy, young, backpacker hub -

### Pensioner Visa (Jubilado Visa) **Requirements:** - Proof of $1,350/month passive income (roughly $16,200/year) - 6 months of consistent bank statements - Valid passport, clean background check - No requirement for health insurance **Valid sources:** - Social Security ✅ (yes, single qualifying income source) - Pension (any type) ✅ - Rental income ✅ - Investment returns ✅ - Annuity ✅ **Timeline:** 30–60 days to approval **Duration:** 1 year (renewable annually forever) **Cost:** ~$300–500 with lawyer **Residency path:** - 2–3 years on Pensioner visa → apply for permanent residency - Permanent residency → live indefinitely; no citizenship required **Real talk:** This is genuinely acc