Living In Costa Rica: Essential Expat Guide 2024

Costa Rica is known as the Switzerland of Latin America. This stable, democratic country located between Nicaragua and Panama invests a lot in social development and nature preservation and has a tax system favorable to expats.

If you want to take advantage of everything this country offers to its residents, read how you can move to and settle down in Costa Rica.

In this guide:

• The legalities of moving to Costa Rica: visas and residency options.
• The cost of living: monthly expenses, rentals, and real estate.
• Costa Rica as a retirement destination.
• Infrastructure: travel connections, public transport, internet.
• Buying real estate.
• Healthcare and education.
• Taxes and bank accounts.
• Where to live in Costa Rica – an overview of the most popular expat locations.
• Tips for moving.

Costa Rica’s highlights

• Political and Economic Stability: Costa Rica offers a stable democracy and a robust, economically stable environment. The country abolished its military in 1948, focusing on peace and neutrality.
• High Quality of Life: It consistently ranks high in terms of quality of life, with a strong focus on healthcare and education.
• Universal Healthcare and Good Quality Education: Accessible public healthcare system and private healthcare options. The country’s education system is considered the best in Latin America.
• No Income Tax on Foreign Incomes: Expats who derive their income from foreign sources (foreign pensions and investments, for example) do not have to pay income tax while living in Costa Rica.
• Choice of Residency Options: Costa Rica offers various residency options for retirees and investors, including the Pensionado and Rentista programs.
• Natural Beauty and Climate Diversity: The country boasts stunning landscapes, including rainforests, beaches, and diverse ecosystems, offering numerous outdoor recreational opportunities. Choice of tropical coastal areas or cooler mountain regions for residence.
• Lifestyle That Promotes Health and Longevity: Pura Vida lifestyle is a culture promoting happiness, simplicity, and enjoyment of life.
• Friendly Expatriate and Local Communities: There are established expat communities in various regions of Costa Rica, providing a support network. Costa Ricans, or “Ticos,” are known for their friendliness and welcoming nature toward expats.
• Environmental Sustainability: Costa Rica is committed to environmental conservation, with a focus on renewable energy, eco-tourism, and eco-friendly practices.
• Accessibility: It’s well-connected with international flights and has modern infrastructure.

Residency in Costa Rica

You can apply for one of the three categories of residency: Pensionado, Rentista, or Inversionista.

Pensionado – for retirees

Pensionado residency is designed for those who are in receipt of any type of lifetime pension or social benefits.

Qualified incomes:

• State retirement benefits of no less than $1,000 US per month.
• A military pension of no less than $1,000 US per month.
• A guaranteed income from a lifetime annuity of no less than $1,000 US per month.

The Pensionado residency visa doesn’t set any age limit. As long as you have a pension, you may retire as young as you wish.

To qualify, you need to do the following:

• Provide proof of your pension income, which must be a minimum of $1,000 per month.
• Live in Costa Rica for at least four months in the year.
• Join and contribute monthly to the state healthcare program Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (Costa Rican Department of Social Security), or CAJA, as it is known universally, which will be your comprehensive health cover.

Rentista residency for non-pensioners

If you are not in receipt of a pension, the Rentista type of residency is a perfect solution for you.

To qualify, you will need to:

• Show proof of a non-locally earned income of at least $2,500 per month, which a banking institution guarantees for at least two years,
• Or put down a deposit of $60,000 in an approved Costa Rican bank.
• Live in Costa Rica for at least four months in the year.
• Join and contribute to CAJA to provide yourself with health coverage.

The money that you deposit in the chosen bank stays in your possession, and $2,500 is paid to you out of your deposit every month during the next two years. After that, you will need to renew your residency and put down another $60,000.

Both Pensionado and Rentista residencies are given for two years and need to be renewed.

In both cases, if one spouse applies and meets the requirements, then the other is covered as a dependent.

After three years of living in the country as either a Pensionado or Rentista, you can apply for permanent residence. This is especially useful for Rentista because doing so means that after three years, you can avoid having to find another $60,000 to put down as a deposit.

Inversionista for investors

This type of visa is a typical Investor’s visa, and to be eligible, you will be required to make a direct investment in Costa Rica of a registered and verifiable value of $150,000 minimum ($100,000 in forestation projects).

Investment options:

• You can invest in a business: tourism, hospitality, manufacturing, transportation, amusement, etc.
• In property – both commercial and non-commercial. Non-commercial property is not limited to just buying a home or a plot for personal use; purchasing land for nature preservation of any kind also counts.

There is a further requirement to live in the country for at least six months a year.

After three years of Inversionista residency, you can apply for permanent residency.

Don’t be misled by the word “permanent”. You will still have to renew your permanent Costa Rican residency on a regular basis.

Residence card – DIMEX

Whatever type of residency you apply for, when and if you are granted it, you will be issued a DIMEX card (Documento de Identidad Migratorio para Extranjeros).

DIMEX is an identity card given to all foreigners living in Costa Rica. Together with a plastic card, the government is now issuing digital DIMEX as a part of the plan to digitize DIMEX completely.

The digital DIMEX is in PDF format with a QR code through which the authorities can access your information on the government database.

Your DIMEX will get renewed together with your residency when you apply for renewal.

To renew your DIMEX, you need the following:

• Your expired DIMEX
• Proof of health insurance
• Payment receipt
• Additional documents to your immigration category, if applicable.

You can apply for renewal three months before your current DIMEX is expired. For each month of delay in renewal, you must pay the equivalent of 3 dollars and attach a signed letter with the signature authenticated by a lawyer explaining why you have not renewed your DIMEX on time.

The cost of living in Costa Rica

Although Costa Rica is among the most expensive countries in Latin America, compared to North America and Northern Europe, the country is quite affordable.

Here’s how the cost of living in Costa Rica compares to some North American and Northern European countries:

How much money do you need to live comfortably in Costa Rica?

A budget-conscious couple can live very comfortably in Costa Rica for about $2200, rent included.

On average, a 1-bed apartment in a popular expat area, utilities, a car + petrol, food (mostly local), little extras, and a mobile phone will come up to $1,600.

A budget between $2200 and $4000 a month can buy you a really comfortable life in Costa Rica when you don’t have to worry about your AC unit being on when you want it.

Groceries and shopping

When it comes to food, the best advice is “do what locals do”. There are open-air farmers’ markets (the feria) that happen every week in just about every Costa Rican town or village.

The feria are brilliant for buying fresh fruit, vegetables, spices, seafood, beef and chicken, eggs, dairy products, bread, coffee, and more. And they are cheap.

Keep in mind that popular tourist destinations are more expensive when it comes to groceries or dining out.

Public transport

If you live in a city or a big town and don’t need a car, this will bring your spending down considerably. Most expat city dwellers find public transport a good option when traveling, and the prices are more than satisfactory.

Here is a list of public transport options available in Costa Rica:

1. Bus: Affordable and cover various routes across the country. The average cost of a bus ticket within a city is around 500-700 Costa Rican colones (approximately $0.80 – $1.20 USD). Inter-city bus fares range from 1,500 to 5,000 colones (approximately $2.50 – $8.30 USD), depending on the distance.
2. Taxi: More expensive than buses but convenient. The average starting fare for a taxi ride is around 600 colones (approximately $1 USD), with additional charges per kilometer.
3. Train: Costa Rica has a limited train network, primarily serving the Central Valley area. It’s good for traveling between major cities like San José, Heredia, Alajuela, and Cartago. The fare varies depending on the distance, but a typical train journey can cost around 500-1,500 colones (approximately $0.80 – $2.50 USD).
4. Colectivo: Colectivos are shared taxis or vans that operate on fixed routes. They are a cost-effective option for shorter distances and rural areas where buses may be less frequent. The fares can range from 300 to 1,000 colones (approximately $0.50 – $1.66 USD), depending on the distance traveled.

Housing expenses in Costa Rica

If you are looking to rent, proximity to the coast will influence the price as well as the size, the amenities, and the interiors. There are apartments and houses to rent for various budgets, starting from as low as $500 per month.

For example, in planning to move to Jaco, you can rent a small, two-bedroom apartment for $500 or a luxury apartment for $2,500 a month and up and every price range in between.

Here is what you can rent in Costa Rica:

• Villas: Luxurious private properties with amenities such as pools and gardens. Average rental price: $2,000 – $5,000 per month.
• Traditional Houses: Detached houses with unique architectural styles. Average rental price: $800 – $2,000 per month.
• Condos: Modern apartments located within complexes offering shared facilities. Average rental price: $1,200 – $3,000 per month.
• Apartments: Single-unit apartments within apartment buildings or residential neighborhoods. Average rental price: $500 – $1,500 per month.
• Gated Communities: Residential areas with controlled access and additional security features. Average rental price: $1,500 – $3,500 per month.

Very popular tourist spots turn out to be more expensive, and rentals can be hard to find. For example, if you are moving to Manuel Antonio, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Costa Rica, you need to research your housing options in advance.

Houses are also available for purchase. You can buy a house starting from $75,000, depending on your needs.

Costa Rica as a retirement destination

According to the Expatra Global Retirement Index, Costa Rica scores very high as a retirement destination.

The index is based on the Expatra Global Retirement Survey that asks international retirees to rate their retirement destination’s infrastructure, climate, ease of settling down, value for money, friendliness, and other aspects of life in their retirement destination.

The main advantages are:

• Accessible retirement visa
• No tax on foreign income
• Climate and lifestyle

Here’s how Costa Rica scores in our Global Retirement Index:

Safety in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a pretty safe country. It’s clean, doesn’t have regular extreme weather events, and the people are really friendly.

In recent years, Costa Rica’s reputation as one of the safest destinations has been somewhat shaken as crime has been on the rise. However, it’s still a very safe country when compared to its Central American neighbors.

Costa Rica’s main problem is drug trafficking and money laundering. So, what residents are worried about is opportunistic theft and drug-related crimes. 

Common sense advice is to avoid isolated areas, not to demonstrate your valuables, not to travel alone at night, and to use authorized taxi services. This way, you will be able to avoid the most common dangerous situations.

Like in any other country, cities in Costa Rica can be riskier for residents, particularly after dark. If you plan to live in San Jose, for example, it is advised that you avoid any of the parks at night, as they are considered dangerous.

Moving away from crimes, be aware that the currents along the Pacific and Atlantic shores are often very strong and dangerous; always read signs before entering the water to make sure you are in a safe area.

International travel

Costa Rica is connected internationally through several international airports, including Juan Santamaría International Airport in San José and Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport in Liberia.

There are regular direct flights to and from major cities in the United States, Canada, Europe, and Latin America.

Several regional airlines offer flights to destinations within Central America and the Caribbean.

There is a ferry service that operates between Costa Rica and Panama. It departs from Puntarenas in Costa Rica and arrives at Puerto Armuelles in Panama. The approximate cost for this route is around $30 to $40 USD per person.

Infrastructure and connectivity

Costa Rica has good infrastructure in urban centers: high-speed internet and good mobile connection (including 3G and 4G), reliable electrical services, and clean water (tap water is clean enough to drink).

San José and the Central Valley are best equipped regarding amenities and connectivity. Most cities and big towns have decent internet. Here is what you can get on average in various locations:

Region	Average Broadband Speed
San José	100 Mbps
Guanacaste	80 Mbps
Limón	60 Mbps
Alajuela	90 Mbps
Heredia	85 Mbps
Cartago	75 Mbps
Puntarenas	70 Mbps
Liberia	65 Mbps
Quepos	55 Mbps
Puerto Viejo	50 Mbps
Tamarindo	45 Mbps

However, some areas have little to no internet connectivity. Even with well over 200,000 kilometers of fiber optic cable in the country, there are many areas where installation is not feasible.

When renting an apartment, check how fast the included internet connection is. It is usually the slowest possible, so you need to upgrade it. The only way to do so is to ask your host, as only the contract holder can make changes.

Also, during the rainy season, power outages are common, so it’s advisable to invest in a battery backup/surge protector for your modem and router to ensure continuous connectivity and protect your equipment from surges.

Schools in Costa Rica

Costa Rica was the first country in Central America to make education free and mandatory for all citizens.

Costa Rica has one of the best school systems in Central or South America, and the literacy rate is 95 percent for everyone over the age of 15.

The education system in Costa Rica

Primary education is for ages 6 to 13 and lasts six years. Secondary education is voluntary and lasts five to six years. The first three years of secondary school concentrate on general education, while the remaining two to three years are for specialized training.

Secondary education allows pupils to choose between academic (5 years) and technical (6 years) schools.

Schools in Costa Rica are open from February to December. The end of the academic year marks the beginning of the traditional coffee-picking season, the year-end festivals, and the arrival of summer.

In addition to state schools, there are private schools in the country. Some schools follow the American or British curriculums with English-speaking programs, while others are regulated under the French or German education system.

If your children are officially residents of Costa Rica, you can send them to a state school. However, you need to make sure your children speak good Spanish, as state-run schools are Spanish-language only.

For this reason, many expats prefer international schools, especially for older kids, to make the transition easier. Sending your child to an International school also means more choices when it comes to higher education.

Some international schools run on the U.S./UK August- June calendar. Tuition fees range from $5,000-$25,000, and there are various payment plans available for families.

Buying property in Costa Rica

There are no limitations for foreigners wishing to buy homes or land in Costa Rica. Foreign buyers have the same rights and legal protection as Costa Rican citizens.

You should start your property search by finding a solid and reputable estate agency and a lawyer to work with. 

When you have found the property you wish to buy, ask your agent to make an offer to purchase (a Letter of Intent) to the seller’s agent or the seller personally. This usually leads to negotiations concerning price, timeline, conditions, and terms.

When everything is agreed upon between you and the seller, your lawyer will draft a formal Sale and Purchase Agreement, which will include all the terms and conditions you and the seller have set out previously.

As soon as you sign it, it is a legally binding document and clearly states what needs to be achieved on both sides in order for the transfer of the deed to take place.

A deposit of up to 10% of the purchase price is usually required, and a final closing date will be set within 30 to 60 days.

Due diligence

During this time, your lawyer does due diligence on the property, ensuring there are no legal issues or debts connected with it. It is usually a straightforward process; all the information about land and property is consolidated in the central land registry, which allows your lawyer to confirm that there is a clear title for your property.

This information is open to anyone, and if you are fluent enough in Spanish, you can go to the National Registry, check the status of the property you wish to buy, and obtain a certified property report, including a Plano Catastro (a survey plan). Plano Catastro details the property’s boundaries, the total size, ownership, the Folio Real number, and the date it was registered.

The Folio Real Number reflects such vital information as the province where the property is located (the first number), the specific property number (the second group of digits), and the number of owners (the third group of digits).

You will need the Folio Real number of the property you are planning to purchase if you wish to obtain a certified property report from the National Registry.

Also, if necessary, surveys, soil tests, and home inspections are carried out during this period.

At this point, if you feel you need it, you can get title insurance to make sure your property is protected no matter what.

The deal is closed before a Costa Rican Notary Public, who will register the property under the owner.

The last step is registering your property in the local Municipality for property tax purposes. Your lawyer can do it for you by filling out a form and presenting it along with some other documents to the Municipality office.

Costs and fees

Usually, total property transaction costs can add up to 4% of the value of the property, and the costs are split evenly between the buyer and seller. They include:

• Transfer tax – around 1.5%
• Legal fees – 1-2%
• And a few lesser fees such as a registry fee, municipal fee, fiscal fee, bar association fee, archive costs, etc.

Property tax in Costa Rica is one of the lowest in the world – it is 0.25% of the registered value per year. To illustrate, if you buy a property worth £150,000, your annual property tax will be just £375.

However, there is a luxury tax levied against properties worth $250,000 or more. The tax starts at $2,500 and goes up depending on the registered value of the property.

Buying land in Costa Rica

If you are buying a plot of land in Costa Rica with or without property on it, pay attention to the type of property rights you have been offered. There are two types of rights: ownership rights – “derecho de propiedad”, and occupation rights – “derechos de ocupación”.

Occupation rights mean that land hasn’t been registered in the National Registry and consequently cannot be checked for the title. And although it is possible to register it properly, the process might take a long time.

Ownership rights are, therefore, preferable. They mean that the land is registered and title-searchable.

Concession land

When it comes to buying land on the beachfront, you will be dealing with a concession property. Concession properties are, in fact, government-leased properties. Any transactions on this kind of land or property are subject to specific rules and regulations.

Having a concession property means you have a lease with the government for a certain period of time. It is usually 20 years, and as long as the annual concession fees are paid and no violation of the lease agreement has been made, the government renews the lease for another 20 years.

As it happens, concession properties are the most attractive ones because they come with a sea view and a piece of beach right next to your door. So naturally, they are very sought-after.

Make sure you fully understand the limitations of having a concession property before committing to the deal: you pay higher tax (from 2.5% and up per year), there are very strict rules as to the size of the building and zoning, there is no title and thus no title insurance, no mortgage can be obtained on concession land, etc.

As long as you are aware of all the limitations that a concession property comes with, you may go for it if you really want a beautiful house literally meters away from the sea.

All beach properties in the concession zones are located within a 150-meter-wide strip of beach, which starts right after a 50-meter-wide public beach zone. So really you cannot be closer to the sea than this.

Healthcare in Costa Rica

The United Nations continuously ranks Costa Rica’s public healthcare system in the top 20 in the world and the best in Latin America.

Costa Rican healthcare is rapidly becoming famous for its exceptional quality and low cost. The country is very cleverly using its proximity to the USA, where medical care is notorious for horrendous prices, and successfully markets its health services to Americans and those across the world.

So in a way, it is becoming self-fulfilling – the better Costa Rican hospitals are, the more health tourists it attracts, the more money they bring into the country, the more investment Costa Rican healthcare gets, and the better it becomes!

There are several options available to expats in Costa Rica to make sure their health is protected.

National healthcare

Costa Rica has a publicly funded national healthcare system – CCSS or CAJA (the Costa Rican Department of Social Insurance or Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social), on which the government spends approximately 8% of GDP.

Joining the national healthcare system in Costa Rica is obligatory. To obtain residency, you must enroll and contribute to the CAJA. 

It might cost you anywhere between $75 and $455 a month to enroll in the CAJA. For this, you and your immediate family will get low-cost access to the national healthcare system and neighborhood clinics, hospitals, and pharmacies.

Your payments to CAJA will be determined based on the size of your income that you disclose to the authorities when applying for residency. If you declare a high income, you might end up paying more than $300 per month.

On the plus side, CAJA cover is comprehensive: it includes doctor’s visits, medications, examinations, and hospitalization. Pre-existing conditions are covered, and so are dental treatments and ophthalmic care.

There are options to take out a health insurance policy from other sources, but because participation in CAJA is compulsory for expats, you will still have to pay into it.

The Governmental insurance INS

INS is a state insurance company. It offers a health plan that covers about 80% of the cost of doctor’s visits, prescriptions, tests, examinations, and hospitalization. An INS plan also fully covers most surgical procedures, and the policyholder can choose a doctor.

If you use medical services not affiliated with the INS, you will be asked to pay upfront, and the INS will reimburse it.

On buying an INS policy, you will be given an identification card and a booklet with the names of affiliated groups such as hospitals, doctors, labs, and pharmacies.

The disadvantages are that it does not cover any pre-existing medical conditions, most dental, eye exams and treatments, or preventive medical check-ups.

It also has quite a low limit per year – about $17,500. If you take into consideration that a day in intensive care can cost you $3,000, it becomes clear that if something serious happens, this limit won’t take you far.

International health cover

You can also buy an international health plan through INS.

Some of the plans from big international insurers have limits up to $2,000,000 a year and will cost just a bit more than an INS health plan.

Shop around to get the one that suits you best. It’s always worth comparing plans from different international health insurers. Some providers will knock the price down if the coverage needed is just for Latin America or one particular country in the region.

Using public healthcare with a private health plan

It might be a good idea to take out a private health plan on top of your CAJA cover.

Using private facilities can save you time: you can have the necessary tests done privately within a day instead of waiting for a couple of weeks if you go with a CAJA hospital, which you can then bring back to your CAJA doctor.

Many of the doctors working in private healthcare also work in public hospitals, so they can often refer their patients to CAJA pharmacies for medication to save costs.

Banking & bank accounts for expats in Costa Rica

Opening a bank account in a foreign country is not an easy thing to do. Costa Rica is not an exception. However, the good news is that, since 2016, expats have been able to open a non-resident bank account that they can use while going through the residency application process.

Non-resident bank account

There’s only one bank that allows non-residential bank accounts – Banco de Costa Rica (BCR), which is a state-owned bank. 

You will need a valid form of identification and a mobile number. As a non-resident, you will only be able to deposit up to an equivalent of $1,000 USD into your account each month.

Resident bank account 

Opening a bank account in Costa Rica as a resident involves a huge amount of paperwork. Requirements may differ from bank to bank, but generally, you will need the following: 

1. Valid ID in the form of your DIMEX ID card, which is issued to you by the immigration department.
2. Minimum deposit. The sum depends on the type of account.
3. Proof of residency: a utility bill or lease agreement with your local residential address.
4. Additional forms for US citizens: various tax forms may also be required to inform the (IRS) of your Costa Rican bank accounts.
5. Proof of income: your payslip, a letter from your accountant, a letter from your pension provider, etc. 

Taxes in Costa Rica

Under the Costa Rica tax system, residents and corporations are taxed only on income earned in Costa Rica. 

So, if you are planning to fund your life in Costa Rica using your pension, investments, dividends, or other funds not derived from within the Costa Rica territory and from Costa Rica sources, you will be paying no income tax to the Costa Rican government. 

Some of the taxes that residents in Costa Rica must pay:

• Income Tax: The tax on locally sourced income ranges from 0% to 25%, depending on the level of income.
• Value Added Tax (VAT): The standard VAT rate in Costa Rica is 13%. Some goods and services may have a reduced VAT rate of 4% or 2%.
• Property Tax: Owners must pay an annual property tax ranging from 0.25% to 0.55% of the property’s registered value.
• Sales Tax: Certain goods and services may be subject to a sales tax rate of 2% or 4% in addition to the VAT.
• Capital Gains Tax: Capital gains from selling assets or properties are taxed at a rate of 15% or 30%, depending on the type of asset and the duration it was held.
• Vehicle Tax: Vehicle owners must pay an annual tax, known as “Marchamo,” which is based on the vehicle’s value, fuel type, and other factors.

If you are moving to Costa Rica as an investor, retiree, or rentista, you can import your household goods and up to 2 cars free of import taxes, customs duties, and value-added taxes. You need to apply for the exemption.

Where to live in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is known for its splendid beaches along both the Pacific and Caribbean coastlines, with steaming volcanoes and immense biodiversity.

The Caribbean coast

The Caribbean beaches are soft and gentle, with white sand and emerald waters framed by the green lushness of palm forests.

Here are some popular expat destinations on the Caribbean side of Costa Rica:

1. Puerto Viejo de Talamanca: Known for its vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture, laid-back with stunning beaches, excellent surfing spots, and lively nightlife. The town is popular among expats for its bohemian atmosphere, international community, and proximity to beautiful national parks.
2. Cahuita: A quaint coastal village known for its relaxed vibe, pristine beaches, and the Cahuita National Park, which offers fantastic opportunities for hiking and wildlife spotting. This small town attracts expats looking for a quieter, off-the-beaten-path destination with a strong connection to nature.
3. Tortuguero: Located within a remote national park, Tortuguero is a unique destination known for its abundant biodiversity, lush rainforests, and sea turtle nesting grounds. Expats seeking a secluded and eco-friendly lifestyle surrounded by lush tropical beauty are drawn to this area.
4. Limón: As the capital of the Limón province, this bustling port city is a melting pot of cultures and ethnicities, known for its vibrant Afro-Caribbean traditions. Expats who enjoy an urban lifestyle with diverse cultural experiences may find Limón appealing.

The Pacific coast

The Pacific coastline is typically oceanic – rugged in the north and smoother and more forested to the south.

Here are the most popular destinations on the Pacific side of Costa Rica:

1. Manuel Antonio: Known for stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and abundant wildlife. The Manuel Antonio National Park offers incredible biodiversity, making it a favorite spot for nature lovers.
2. Tamarindo: Situated in the Guanacaste Province, Tamarindo is a popular beach town known for its vibrant surf scene and lively nightlife. With golden sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, it’s a great spot for surfing, swimming, and sunbathing.
3. Jacó: Just a short drive from the capital city, San José, Jacó is a bustling coastal town with a lively atmosphere. It attracts visitors with its beautiful beaches, excellent surfing conditions, and a wide array of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options.
4. Santa Teresa: Located on the Nicoya Peninsula, Santa Teresa has become highly sought-after by surfers and yoga enthusiasts. Its pristine beaches, breathtaking sunsets, and relaxed vibe make it an ideal destination if you love tranquility and outdoor activities.
5. Montezuma: Nestled in a lush tropical landscape, Montezuma offers a bohemian ambiance and laid-back charm. Visitors are drawn to its stunning waterfalls, secluded beaches, and vibrant arts scene. It’s also a gateway to the nearby Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve.
6. Mal País: Sharing the same stretch of coastline as Santa Teresa, Mal País offers a quieter alternative with a hip, surfer-friendly atmosphere. With panoramic beaches, amazing fishing opportunities, and an abundance of wildlife, Mal País is a great place for nature and adventure enthusiasts.
7. Uvita: Known for its unique whale’s tail-shaped beach in Marino Ballena National Park. The area is also home to stunning natural attractions like Nauyaca Waterfalls.

The Central Valley

If you want all the comforts at your doorstep, you should consider living in the Central Valley.

The Central Valley climate is considered to be one of the healthiest climates in the world. With average annual temperatures ranging between 21-27º C, Costa Rica doesn’t have pronounced winters and summers. There is a rainy season, however, from May to November.

Plus, you can always go to San Jose for an urban fix. There is no shortage of entertainment here: there are enough theatres and galleries and fine dining in literally any cuisine imaginable.

Things to keep in mind when moving to Costa Rica

1. Learning the language can help a lot

Although English is widely spoken in Costa Rica – and in many service-oriented businesses, especially in hospitality, entertainment, and health industries, staff are required to have a good command of English – learning Spanish will never be a waste of your time.

2. Bureaucracy

Gaining residency will test your resolve and patience. As will many other types of paperwork. The best way to deal with it is to hire local help, sit back, and relax. 

3. Roads

The main roads are generally not too bad. However, they suffer from potholes caused by heavy rains in the wet season. 

Landslides in the wet season are common. They often block the road between San Jose and Guapiles on the way to Limon and can cause delays. 

Usually, the blockages are dealt with quite quickly. There are also longer alternative routes that you can take. 

Just remember that smaller roads are usually in much worse condition. They feature so many potholes, dips, and cracks that it’s impossible to avoid damaging your car. 

4. Local driving

The local driving style might be shocking at first. Drivers speed and maneuver dangerously, passing where it is not safe to do so, and do not usually respect the right of way. 

Pedestrians suffer the most from dangerous driving; on average, road accidents claim the lives of two pedestrians a day.

Living in Costa Rica – summary

To summarise, Costa Rica is successful, democratic, socially oriented, and ecologically minded.

It has everything you need for a happy life: beautiful landscapes and nature, gentle and soft beaches, a dramatic ocean coastline, lush forests and sweet valleys, amazing national parks, mild weather all year round, a relatively low cost of living, and a good healthcare system that won’t bankrupt you.

You might not always be able to find the greatest degree of sophistication that usually comes with a highly urban lifestyle, but if you like beaches, friendly communities, and town life centered on a church, then you will enjoy the country.

Plus, the Costa Rican taxation system is very favorable towards expats, property costs are moderate, and immigration procedures are not too tricky if you use the help of a lawyer.

You might find useful:

• Best Places To Live In Costa Rica – a detailed overview of the most popular locations in Costa Rica
• Didn’t find what you were looking for or need further advice? Comment with your question below, and we will do our best to help.
• What It’s Like Living In Atenas – Sarah Jordan’s excellent guide to the Costa Rican town.

Helpful external links:

• Find information on visas, residency, and permits on the government site of Costa Rica.
• The list of consulates of Costa Rica in the USA.
• You can look for qualified doctors and check their qualifications on The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Costa Rica site.
• Conduct a property title search and a vehicle title search using the National Registry website.

Further places to explore in Latin America:

• Living In Chile
• Living In Mexico
• Living In Argentina
• Living In Panama
• Living In Colombia
• Living In Paraguay
• Living In Brazil