I'm an Ecuadorean living in Guayaquil. I just wanted to point out that obviously you are referring to a specific practically rural community which is Montañita, Olón, Manglaralto. This is a relatively small community and does not represent the entire country as it is very diverse .
Nevertheless; yes, in that area the locals are as you describe them, unfortunately due to the fact they have not had access to higher education and learn technical skills, they have lower incomes, men tend to go out to get jobs and women marry young and tend to saty home.
Life in that area is very laid back and it seems that life style, the gorgeous beaches, the ocean and the sun attracks a lot of foreigners and settle down for a while.
I enjoyed reading your post.