Quito vs Chiang Mai

Cost of living comparison for 2026. Quito is roughly 13% more affordable than Chiang Mai (index 16 vs 18, New York = 100). Data sourced live via AI — updated regularly.

Quito
More affordable overall
13% cheaper than Chiang Mai · Cost index: 16 vs 18

Life Power at $3,000/mo

The same salary ranks differently depending on where you live — from Beggar to King.

Head-to-Head Stats

16Cost Index18
604Median Income /mo1,400
45Safety Index82
15Income Tax %5
45Internet (Mbps)45
150Coworking /mo120

Price Breakdown

QuitoCategoryChiang Mai
$730/month
1-BR Apartment (Center)
53% ← cheaper
$340/month
$0.8/liter
Meal for One
60% cheaper →
$2/liter
$8/meal
Restaurant (Mid-range)
56% ← cheaper
$3.5/meal
$25/month
Monthly Transit Pass
$25/month
$45/month
Utilities (Monthly)
18% cheaper →
$55/month
$30/visit
Doctor Visit
6% cheaper →
$32/visit

Digital Nomad Profile

Quito

Internet45 Mbps
Coworking$150/mo
Café WiFifair
Englishlow
Communitygrowing
Walkability72/100

Chiang Mai

Internet45 Mbps
Coworking$120/mo
Café WiFigood
Englishmoderate
Communitylarge
Walkability70/100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Quito cheaper than Chiang Mai?

Quito is cheaper than Chiang Mai. Quito has a cost of living index of 16/100 compared to 18/100 for Chiang Mai (New York = 100), making it roughly 13% more affordable overall.

How much cheaper is Quito than Chiang Mai?

Quito is approximately 13% cheaper than Chiang Mai based on cost index scores (16 vs 18, where New York = 100). A person spending $3,000/month in Chiang Mai could live a similar lifestyle for roughly $2,625/month in Quito.

What is the rent comparison between Quito and Chiang Mai?

In Quito, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $730/month. In Chiang Mai, the equivalent is around $340/month.

Which city is better for digital nomads — Quito or Chiang Mai?

Both cities have nomad infrastructure. Quito offers 45 Mbps internet and coworking at ~$150/month. Chiang Mai offers 45 Mbps and coworking at ~$120/month. Quito has a cost advantage of 13%.

What is the average income in Quito vs Chiang Mai?

The median net monthly salary in Quito is approximately $604 USD, compared to $1,400 USD in Chiang Mai.

Compare Quito with…

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