Cartagena vs Cuenca: Cost of Living Compared

Cuenca is roughly 32% cheaper overall — about $649 versus $960 per month for a single person. A city-centre one-bedroom averages $469 in Cuenca against $937 in Cartagena. Cuenca scores higher on safety (55 vs 38/100). Internet is faster in Cartagena (135 vs 94 Mbps).

City Comparer

Cartagena, Colombia
CartagenaColombia
Cuenca, Ecuador
CuencaEcuador
86%overall match
Cartagena leads in beachesCartagena leads in divingCuenca leads in hiking
💰Cost🛡️Safety☀️Weather🎭Culture🏄Activities🌐Internet
CartagenaCuenca
Daily Cost$32/day
$22/day
Monthly Cost$960
$649
Rent$937
$469
Safety38
55
Healthcare79
72
Air Quality85
82
Tourist Safety42
58
Disaster Risk20
18
Winter High87°F
68°F
Summer High89°F
70°F
Sunny Days189
205
Rainy Days87
127
Nightlife60
35
Food72
68
Culture72
78
Coffee Culture65
30
Veg Friendly42
45
Late Night4/6
2/6
Cleanliness48
55
Green Spaces45
65
Hiking30
72
Beaches85
0
Surfing10
0
Skiing0
0
Diving50
0
Yoga45
42
Running40
42
Sports40
35
Bikeability20
20
Internet135 Mbps
94 Mbps
Transit35
28
Walkability62
68
Cowork Spaces22
15
Power Reliability99
88

Cartagena vs Cuenca FAQ

Is Cartagena or Cuenca cheaper to live in?

Cuenca is cheaper — about $649 per month versus $960, roughly 32% less.

Is Cartagena or Cuenca safer?

Cuenca scores higher: 55/100 versus 38/100.

Which has faster internet, Cartagena or Cuenca?

Cartagena — median download speeds are 135 Mbps versus 94 Mbps.