Is Cartagena or Guayaquil cheaper to live in?

Guayaquil is 41% cheaper than Cartagena. The average monthly cost in Guayaquil is $836, while Cartagena costs $1,410 per month.

Which city is better for digital nomads: Cartagena or Guayaquil?

For digital nomads, Cartagena offers faster internet at 85 Mbps. Guayaquil is more budget-friendly with lower living costs. Both cities have their strengths - Cartagena has a NomadIQ score of 6.8/10 while Guayaquil scores 6.9/10.

What is the rent difference between Cartagena and Guayaquil?

A 1-bedroom apartment costs $932/month in Cartagena and $450/month in Guayaquil. Guayaquil has 52% lower rent.

Is Cartagena or Guayaquil safer?

Cartagena has a higher safety score of 4.8/10. Cartagena scores 4.8/10 for safety while Guayaquil scores 2.6/10.

Should I move to Cartagena or Guayaquil as an expat?

The choice depends on your priorities. Choose Guayaquil if budget is important ($836/month). Choose Cartagena for better safety. Cartagena is better for remote work with 85 Mbps internet.

Back to Comparison Tool

Cartagena vs Guayaquil

Cost of Living, Safety & Expat Guide (2026)

Cartagena

Colombia

$1,410/mo6.8/10

Guayaquil

Ecuador

$836/mo6.9/10

Cartagena

Colombia

$1,410/moNomadIQ 6.8/10

Guayaquil

Ecuador

$836/moNomadIQ 6.9/10

Detailed Comparison

Factor

Cartagena

Guayaquil

Winner

Total Monthly Cost

$1,410

$836

Guayaquil

Rent (1BR)

$932

$450

Guayaquil

Groceries

$300

$250

Guayaquil

Transport

$50

$40

Guayaquil

Healthcare

$100

$70

Guayaquil

Safety Score

4.8/10

2.6/10

Cartagena

Internet Speed

85 Mbps

80 Mbps

Cartagena

NomadIQ Score

6.8/10

6.9/10

Guayaquil

Overall Winner: Guayaquil

Based on our comparison, Guayaquil wins 6 out of 8 categories.Cartagena wins 2 categories.

Which city is better for digital nomads?

For digital nomads choosing between Cartagena and Guayaquil, the answer depends on your priorities. Here's our analysis:

Best for Budget

Guayaquil

$836/mo

Best Internet

Cartagena

85 Mbps

Best NomadIQ Score

Guayaquil

6.9/10

Our Recommendation: Guayaquil is the clear winner for digital nomads, offering both affordability and excellent nomad infrastructure.

Digital Nomad Analysis: Cartagena vs Guayaquil

When comparing Cartagena and Guayaquil for digital nomads, several factors come into play.

Cost of Living: Guayaquil is the more budget-friendly option at $836/month versus Cartagena's $1,410/month.

Internet & Remote Work: Cartagena leads with 85 Mbps average internet speed, ideal for video calls and large file transfers. Guayaquil offers 80 Mbps.

Safety: With a safety score of 4.8/10, Cartagena provides a more secure environment than Guayaquil (2.6/10).

Overall: Guayaquil's NomadIQ score of 6.9/10 gives it an edge for remote workers.

Cost of Living Comparison

Guayaquil is 41% cheaper than Cartagena.

• Cartagena rent: $932/mo
• Guayaquil rent: $450/mo
• Difference: $482/mo

Safety Comparison

Cartagena has a higher safety score (4.8/10) compared to Guayaquil (2.6/10).

4.8/10

Cartagena

2.6/10

Guayaquil

Digital Nomad Friendliness

For remote workers, internet speed is crucial. Cartagena offers faster internet at 85 Mbps vs 80 Mbps.

85 Mbps

Cartagena

80 Mbps

Guayaquil

Which City Is Better for Expats?

Based on our analysis, Guayaquil edges out as the better choice for expats, winning 6 of 8 comparison factors.

Cartagena: Best for those prioritizing amenities

Guayaquil: Best for budget-conscious expats

Cartagena vs Guayaquil

Cartagena

Guayaquil

Cartagena

Guayaquil

Detailed Comparison

Overall Winner: Guayaquil

Which city is better for digital nomads?

Digital Nomad Analysis: Cartagena vs Guayaquil

Cost of Living Comparison

Safety Comparison

Digital Nomad Friendliness

Which City Is Better for Expats?

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Frequently Asked Questions: Cartagena vs Guayaquil