How much can I earn teaching English in Ecuador?

Latin America contains several countries such as Chile, Costa Rica, and Mexico that are well known destinations for teaching English abroad. However, there are a few other countries across the region that are starting to challenge the dominance of these traditional teaching markets. Ecuador is certainly one of these as it boasts a wide range of extraordinary environments to explore, from the Andean Mountains to the Amazon rainforest. Big cities such as Quito, Guayaquil, and Cuenca, all have plenty of potential job opportunities, although there are many smaller towns and cities across the country to look at if you want to stay off the beaten track.

What are TESOL salaries in Ecuador?

The average salary for a foreign teacher in Ecuador is generally quite low when compared to many other popular destinations around the world. However, as the cost of living is also lower than many areas, it is possible to live comfortably on a modest salary. The amount you can earn will vary considerably depending on your level of teaching qualifications and previous classroom experience, but the average monthly figure is between $500 and $1,000. It is possible for teachers with high-end qualifications and experience to earn considerably more than that if they are lucky enough to land a job in an international school or a university. The hourly rate for private tutoring ranges from $10 to $15.

Who are the main employers of English language teachers in Ecuador?

By far the biggest employer of teachers in Ecuador are private language schools that are located in most parts of the country, predominantly in major cities. As the demand for teachers is high in many areas, it is often possible to find teaching jobs without any qualifications or previous experience. However, if you have a TESOL certificate and/or a degree you will have a better chance of earning a decent income. The average working week would involve around 20 to 25 classroom hours, plus additional time for lesson planning. Extra benefits such as a housing allowance or paid holidays are not typically on offer at language schools in Ecuador.

Who else employs English language teachers in Ecuador?

There are a small number of potential opportunities for teachers in universities and international schools which generally offer a much higher salary than private language schools. However, these are usually only open to experienced teachers who possess high level teaching qualifications. Also, positions in these schools are highly sought after as the benefits are significantly better than other options, so you should expect to be up against tough competition.

What is the cost of living for English teachers in Ecuador?

The cost of living in Ecuador is relatively low which goes a long way to offsetting the low average salary. Common expenses such as utility bills, public transport, and groceries are all cheap compared to western countries. Eating out is also an inexpensive pastime as local food stalls and small restaurants offer up high quality meals for as little as $2 to $3. As always, housing is likely to be your biggest expense. However, rents are actually much more affordable in Ecuador in comparison to many other countries in Latin America. A good quality apartment will set you back anywhere from $100 to $400 per month depending on its size and location. Another popular option is to stay with other teachers and travelers in a long-term hostel. Rooms in these establishments range from $6 to $12 per night.