How Affordable Is It?

by Lionel Riley
(Union City, CA, USA)

Hi there,
I've always wanted to move to another country and learn about a culture that was different from my own. I have served in foreign countries while being in the military.

I've always dreamed of returning to Spain, but the cost of living in Europe is very expensive these days. I currently live in the San Francisco Bay Area of California, which is probably one of the most expensive areas in the U.S.

I am a single male, 64 years of age and retiring this year on Social Security. My monthly income will be sightly better than $1300. I am not looking to live the life style of the rich, just a little better then I have here in the states.

Is this at all possible in Cuenca? I've been told that it is, if I live frugally. This is no problem for me, because I currently live that way on $17,000 per year now. So what do you say? Is it possible to live off of Social Security and not live in poverty there?

Lionel

Hi Lionel.

I think it's possible.

I just looked at out budget. We spend less than $1,300 a month for two of us. I'll point out that we rent an unfurnished apartment for $350 a month plus the monthly fee (total is $391 a month).

Our budgeted amount includes $300 for food, $50 for dining (although we often exceed that amount), $15 for dining, and $90 for utilities (including internet), plus $50 a month for travel and $50 for emergencies.

Ours came in under $1,200.

For one person, food expenses will likely be under $300 including dining, so there's an estimated $150 saving right there.

So yes, it's definitely do-able.

Jeff