Ecuador: Population, Economy & Travel Facts

Essential data for planning your trip to Ecuador — from population and demographics to economic indicators, healthcare infrastructure, tourism trends, and digital connectivity.

Population & Geography

Population
17,084,357
#68 of 197 countries
Area
283,561 km²
#74 of 248 countries
Density
60.2 / km²
#152 of 245 countries

Ecuador has a population of 17,084,357 spread across 283,561 km², giving it an average density of 60.2 people per km².

Most Populous Cities

Quito
2,781,641
6993 / km²
Guayaquil
2,723,665
8701 / km²
Tumebamba
636,996
6065 / km²
Santo Domingo, Ecuador
458,580
4343 / km²
Ambato, Ecuador
387,309
3407 / km²
Portoviejo
321,800
3859 / km²
Machala
289,141
4636 / km²
Loja, Ecuador
274,112
4794 / km²
Riobamba
264,048
5263 / km²
Ibarra Canton
221,149
4367 / km²

Demographics

Median Age
28.2
Life Expectancy
74.9 yrs
Literacy Rate
96.3%
Government
presidential republic
Ethnic Groups
Religions
GDP by Sector

Economy & Cost of Living

Understanding the local economy helps travellers budget effectively and set expectations. Ecuador is classified as an upper middle income country by the World Bank. Prices are roughly 42% of US levels, meaning costs are moderate and most travellers will find it reasonably affordable.

Income Level
Upper middle income
GDP per Capita
$6,738
Cost of Living
42% of US
Inflation
2.2%
Inequality
44.6
High