Manabí Province · ~20,000
Moving to Bahía de Caráquez, Ecuador
Bahía de Caráquez was Ecuador's first self-declared 'eco-city,' promoting sustainable development, organic agriculture, and environmental restoration after past earthquake damage. It offers a unique coastal community for eco-conscious expats.
Why expats choose Bahía de Caráquez
Eco-city philosophy: Sustainable development, recycling programmes, and environmental education.
Peaceful coastal life: Quieter and less touristy than Salinas or Montañita.
Birdwatching and mangroves: The estuary and nearby islands attract significant birdlife.
Very affordable: Among the lowest-cost coastal options in Ecuador.
Cost of living
What does life in Bahía de Caráquez cost?
Estimates for moderate lifestyle. Use the Cost of Living Calculator for a personalised budget.
Where to live
Best neighbourhoods in Bahía de Caráquez
Bahía Centro
Small town centre with basic shops, a malecón, and the ferry to San Vicente.
Simplicity and waterfront
San Vicente (across the estuary)
More local fishing community, slightly lower costs, connected by ferry.
Authentic coastal life
Boyacá / Suburbs
Quieter residential areas with larger lots and gardens.
Space and calm
Healthcare
Very limited. A small hospital handles basics. For anything serious, travel to Portoviejo (1 hour) or Manta (1.5 hours) is required.
Expat community
Tiny but environmentally focused. A few long-term expats are involved in conservation, organic farming, and community projects. It is not a social hub but rather a mission-driven community.
Pros
- Eco-city philosophy
- Very affordable coastal living
- Peaceful and uncrowded
- Birdwatching and mangroves
- Ferry access to San Vicente
- Genuine community projects
Cons
- Very limited healthcare
- Small town with minimal services
- Can feel isolated
- Limited expat infrastructure
- Past earthquake damage in area
- Humid climate
Visa process from Bahía de Caráquez
Not a visa processing hub. EcuaPass handles all government interactions remotely for Bahía-based clients.
Common questions about Bahía de Caráquez
City FAQs
Is Bahía recovering from past earthquakes?
Yes. The 2016 earthquake caused significant damage, but reconstruction has been ongoing. Verify building standards and structural integrity before purchasing property.