Pichincha Province · ~2.8 million
Moving to Quito, Ecuador
Quito is the world's highest capital city, blending colonial grandeur with modern business districts. As Ecuador's political and economic centre, it offers the most direct international connections and the widest range of professional services.
Why expats choose Quito
Direct international flights: The best connectivity to North America and Europe.
Business and professional hub: Most corporate jobs, embassies, and government offices are based here.
Cultural capital: Museums, theatres, music venues, and the best restaurant scene in Ecuador.
Healthcare breadth: The widest range of specialists and the largest hospitals in the country.
Cost of living
What does life in Quito cost?
Estimates for moderate lifestyle. Use the Cost of Living Calculator for a personalised budget.
Where to live
Best neighbourhoods in Quito
La Floresta / La Mariscal
Trendy area with cafes, galleries, and a young professional vibe. Good public transport.
Digital nomads and young professionals
Cumbayá / Tumbaco (Valley)
Upscale suburban valley 20 minutes from Quito, warmer climate, gated communities, top schools.
Families and those seeking warmer weather
Centro Histórico
UNESCO-listed old town with stunning colonial architecture. Quieter in the evenings.
Culture enthusiasts on a budget
González Suárez
Affluent hillside neighbourhood with modern apartments and panoramic city views.
Professionals with higher budgets
Iñaquito
Central commercial district with modern conveniences, shopping malls, and business centres.
Convenience and walkability
Healthcare
Quito has Ecuador's most comprehensive healthcare network. Hospital Metropolitano, Hospital de Especialidades Carlos Andrade Marín, and Hospital de los Valles offer cutting-edge care. Specialist density is the highest in the country. However, traffic can make reaching appointments time-consuming.
Expat community
Quito's expat population is more dispersed and professionally oriented than Cuenca's. Diplomats, NGO workers, oil industry professionals, and corporate employees dominate. The community is less retiree-focused and more transient.
Pros
- Best international flight connections
- Widest range of professional services
- Most cultural and dining options
- Largest hospitals and specialist network
- Business and career opportunities
Cons
- Highest altitude of any major capital — adjustment period required
- Traffic congestion is severe
- Cooler and wetter than the coast
- Higher cost of living than Cuenca
- More air pollution than smaller cities
Visa process from Quito
Quito is where most government decisions are made. The Cancillería headquarters, SENESCYT central office, and major notaries are all here. If your case is complex or requires escalation, having a Quito-based contact is valuable. EcuaPass coordinates Quito filings remotely from Cuenca.
Common questions about Quito
City FAQs
Is Quito too high in altitude for retirees?
Quito sits at 2,850m. Most people adapt within 2–4 weeks. If you have heart or lung conditions, consult your doctor before choosing Quito over lower-elevation options like the coast or Cumbayá valley.
How bad is traffic in Quito?
Very bad during rush hours (7–9am, 5–8pm). The city has a pico y placa licence plate restriction system. Many expats live in Cumbayá/Tumbaco and commute, or work remotely to avoid traffic.
Is Quito safer than other Latin American capitals?
Generally yes, though petty crime exists in tourist areas. The northern suburbs (Cumbayá, Tumbaco) are significantly safer and feel more like expat enclaves.