Quito vs Cuenca – Digital Nomad Guide
Trying to decide between Quito, Ecuador and Cuenca, Ecuador? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.
💰 Cost of Living
Quito has a monthly cost of $1,980, which is 6.7% higher than Cuenca's $1,855.
🌐 Internet Infrastructure
For internet speeds, Quito offers 30 Mbps, while Cuenca provides 50 Mbps – making Cuenca's connection 66.7% faster .
☀️ Current Weather
The weather in Quito is currently 18°C ⛈️, while Cuenca is experiencing 20°C ⛈️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
Quito has a safety score of 61.0 , while Cuenca scores 70.0 .
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Overall
Quality of Life
Cuenca wins
Cuenca is 9% better
Cost
Climate
Cuenca wins
Cuenca is 24% better
Infrastructure
Cuenca wins
Cuenca is 5% better
Social
Total Cost of Living Comparison
| Category | Quito | Cuenca | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Total | $1,980 | $1,855 | +6.7% |
| Daily Average | $66 | $62 | per day |
Housing
| Item | Quito | Cuenca | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apartment (1 bedroom) | $350.00 per month | $350.00 per month | 0.0% |
Daily Life
| Item | Quito | Cuenca | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coffee | $1.50 per cup | $1.50 per cup | 0.0% |
Transportation
| Item | Quito | Cuenca | Difference |
|---|
Utilities
| Item | Quito | Cuenca | Difference |
|---|
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Final Verdict: Quito vs Cuenca
Cuenca ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 2.0% higher than Quito overall.
💰 Cost Analysis
- Monthly Budget: $1,980 vs $1,855
- Daily Expenses: $66 vs $62
- Cuenca is 6.7% cheaper for digital nomads
🌐 Infrastructure
- Internet Speed: Cuenca leads with 40% faster connection
- Public Transport: Cuenca has better public transportation
🎯 Key Advantages
Quito Wins In:
- No significant advantages found
Cuenca Wins In:
- Safety (9% better)
- Air Quality (24% better)
- Internet Speed (5% better)
💡 Final Recommendation
Choose Cuenca if you prioritize cost effectiveness and Safety. However, Quito might be preferable if Safety is your top priority. Both cities offer unique advantages for digital nomads, with distinct trade-offs in cost of living, infrastructure, and lifestyle options.
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