It's very easy to live on $500/month here, even in Cuenca which is considered more expensive than most areas. The key that I have found is to deal with locals, not other gringos, in finding your way. For example not far from where I live in Cuenca is an area called "gringolandia" where it is common for a gringo to pay $300, $400, even $500 for an unfurnished 2 or 3 bedroom apartment. I pay $200 for a brand new (I am the first tenant) 2 bedroom place, which I was able to totally furnish from local vendors for $2500. Now I rent my extra bedroom for $250, so the place will pay for itself in two years. I get to live for free! My utilities (propane gas for hot water and cooking, electricity, water, garbage service, run about $10/month). There's no need for heat or air conditioning in Cuenca. Food costs maybe run $50/week and I eat very well. I take the bus everywhere, so even an excursion to the beach for two days and one night will costs me under $100. I have learned to live like a local. Soon I will be renting a 4 bedroom house for $300/month and will rent rooms for added income. It's an easy and beautiful life here...you can do it! The secret is that you want to learn spanish and deal with the Ecuadorian people. One of the main reasons why I left the USA was because most Americans are materialistic, egotistic fools. Feel your way on these sites but try to avoid the fear-mongering which keeps most gringos who live in Ecuador locked in the same prison they thought they were leaving when they escaped the USA. good luck! and happy to help in any way I can...you can contact me directly at my email (louisb333@hotmail.com)