Ecuador

Ecuador offers retirees exceptional value with costs 54-60% below the US average. A retired couple in Cuenca can cover housing, food, and private healthcare for roughly $1,500/month. The Jubilado visa requires $1,410/month pension (3x the 2025 unified basic salary of $470), with permanent residency available after 21 months. As a dollarized economy, Ecuador eliminates currency exchange concerns. Cuenca hosts a 10,000-strong US expat community and offers spring-like climate year-round. Social Security and foreign pension income remain untaxed. Alternative visas allow $47,000 lump sum investments in real estate or bank trusts.