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Ibarra, Ecuador
Capital City

Follows Ecuador Residency Rules. Check Digital Nomad & Retiree Pathways →
Est. Monthly Cost (1 Person)
$930
Retiree Score
89.0
Safety Index
68.2
Healthcare
28 facilities

With a population of just under 158,000, Ibarra is a mid-sized Ecuadorian city that has risen in popularity with tourists, but still retains a very authentic local vibe. However, don't be fooled - the town's whitewashed colonial buildings and mild Andean climate come with some persistent bureaucratic headaches. Ibarra's unique ethnic mix of Mestizos, Amerindians, and Afro-Ecuadorians lend it cultural richness, but also pose integration challenges for expats. Overall, this is a charming highland market town, but one best suited for adventurous types who can navigate Ecuador's red tape.

Can I afford Ibarra?

$

Ibarra

You could save

2,070/mo

Savings Rate69%

Monthly Costs

Rent $380
Living (Country Average Adjusted)$550

Attractiveness Scores

FIRE Score
(i)
69/100
Retiree Score
(i)
89/100
Lifestyle Score
(i)
68/100
💻Nomad Score
(i)
50/100
Meets Ecuador Digital Nomad Visa Income Rule.
68
Safety
28
Healthcare
100
Walkability
50
Nomad

Grocery Basket

Milk (1L) $1
Bread (loaf) *$1
Eggs (12) $2
Rice (1kg) *$1
Chicken (1kg) *$5

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Eating Out

Meal (Inexpensive) *$3
Meal (Mid-range) $90
Cappuccino $2
Water (0.33L) *$1

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Utilities & Lifestyle

Utilities (mo) $31
Mobile Plan (mo) $15
Gym (mo) *$25
Cinema Ticket $7

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Housing

1BR Center (mo) $304
1BR Outside (mo) *$227
3BR Center (mo) $576
3BR Outside (mo) *$391

* Estimated based on regional averages.

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Limited
Expat Community
Small
Top Neighborhoods
Yahuarcocha
Best For
retirees

Expat Life Notes

The White City is clean and beautiful, popular with retirees who find Cotacachi or Quito too busy.

Pros

  • ✓ Spring weather year-round
  • ✓ Stunning scenery
  • ✓ Safe and quiet

Cons

  • ✗ Limited English prevalence
  • ✗ Basic infrastructure gaps
  • ✗ Isolated from main jobs

🌐 Infrastructure & Lifestyle

Avg Internet
—
Temperature
—
Annual Rainfall
1439 mm
Coworking Spaces
—
Best Months to Visit
Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Nov, Dec

Also Consider

Cumbaya, EcuadorLiving in Cumbaya, Ecuador offers suburban safety near Quito at higher costs. Ideal for wealthy retirees or remote workers prioritizing gated communities over cCuenca, EcuadorAttractiveness Score: 65.4Itapecuru Mirim, BrazilLiving in Itapecuru Mirim, Brazil offers ultra-low costs amid nature, but limited infrastructure. Best for Portuguese-speaking off-grid retirees on tight budgetLapa, BrazilLiving in Lapa, Brazil offers ultra-low costs but requires tolerance for heat, isolation, and basic infrastructure. Best for budget-focused expats who thrive in

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Ibarra

Click any question to expand the answer.

Ibarra has a population of approximately 157,941 people.

A single person can expect to spend around $950 per month in Ibarra, including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $380/month.

The nearest airport to Ibarra is UIO, approximately 60km away.

Ibarra is considered relatively safe, with a safety index of 68.2. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.

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