Costa Rica has earned its spot as a dream destination for expats, retirees, and slow travelers looking to downshift into a simpler, more nature-connected life. But what’s it really like to live here long-term?
I spent months traveling through Costa Rica, speaking with locals, digital nomads, and families who made the move—and weighing it all against my own experience of relocating abroad. What I found is that Costa Rica is gorgeous and friendly, yes, but also more expensive than many expect, and not without its frustrations.
This guide walks you through the real pros and cons of living in Costa Rica—covering everything from visas and healthcare to climate, cost of living, safety, and lifestyle.
Whether you’re dreaming of a surf shack in Nosara, a cloud forest hideout in Monteverde, or a community-centered life near Uvita, here’s what you should know before you go.
🛠️ Visas, Bureaucracy & Cost of Living
Pro: High quality of life at a moderate cost of living.
Compared to other countries in Central America, Costa Rica is expensive—but for expats coming from the U.S., Canada, or Western Europe, it’s still possible to enjoy a high quality of life for less than you’d spend at home.
Groceries, modest housing, and public healthcare can be very affordable—especially if you shop at ferias (farmer’s markets), cook at home, and rely on public transit. Places like Spain or Portugal are comparably priced, but Costa Rica is a middle-income country offering tropical access to nature, biodiversity, and year-round sunshine.
And if you live like a local—shopping at ferias (farmer’s markets), cooking at home, using public transit—it’s not hard to keep your monthly expenses low.
Con: An “expat lifestyle” can break the bank.
Costa Rica isn’t cheap if you want comfort on foreign terms. Imported goods are heavily taxed. Electronics, toiletries, brand-name clothing, and especially cars are expensive—and not always easy to source.
Many expats fly back to their home countries once or twice a year with half-empty suitcases, returning full of hard-to-find items: car parts, running shoes, favorite hair products. And car ownership is especially painful—vehicles cost far more than in the U.S., insurance can be expensive, and maintenance parts for newer models often need to be shipped in.
Even daily convenience comes with trade-offs. In many expat-favorite beach towns, like Tamarindo and Nosara, residents drive to nearby cities like Liberia or Nicoya just to do a full grocery shop. This reality adds time and fuel costs that don’t always get factored into dreamy relocation math.
Pro: Retirees and digital nomads have a straight-forward path to residency.
One major perk for U.S. and Canadian retirees: the Pensionado residency program. This visa requires proof of a permanent pension (public or private) of at least $1,000/month. If approved, you gain legal residency with access to public healthcare (Caja), the ability to open a local bank account, and more.
For those without a pension, the Rentista visa offers an alternate route—requiring $2,500/month in verifiable passive income or a $60,000 deposit in a Costa Rican bank. Both visas are relatively straightforward compared to other countries, though they require paperwork, apostilles, and time.
As of 2024, Costa Rica also offers a digital nomad visa, though it does not lead to permanent residency. You’ll need proof of US $3,000/month (or $5,000 for families), plus medical insurance. The visa provides a year stay + one-year renewal, and exempts holders from Costa Rican income taxes on foreign earnings.
Con: The infrastructure and systems feel fragile.
Costa Rica is stable, democratic, and relatively well-run—but not everything works all the time.
Power outages happen. Internet can be slow or unreliable (especially outside San José or Escazú). Bureaucratic systems move slowly, and while Ticos are famously friendly, official processes may involve long waits, shifting rules, or extra copies.
Road conditions are another friction point. In rural areas, many roads are unpaved or riddled with potholes. A 4×4 isn’t just useful—it’s often essential, especially during rainy season, when “sloppy, muddy” roads are lamented by locals and expats alike. And while public transport exists, it’s not always convenient for those living outside city centers.
🏡 Housing, Family Life & Community
Pro: Nature-forward living is the norm.
Costa Rica went all in on sustainability long before it was trendy. For more than 50 years, it’s pioneered conservation policies, setting aside a full quarter of its land as protected areas and investing heavily in renewable energy.
This ethos shapes daily life: most homes—whether jungle hideaways in Monteverde or breezy bungalows near Uvita—are surrounded by greenery. Even in the Central Valley suburbs, you’re never far from a hiking trail or howler monkeys.
And while steep import taxes raise the cost of foreign goods, those taxes fund Costa Rica’s efforts to stay carbon neutral, support organic agriculture, and maintain some of the cleanest air and water in the Americas.
Con: Cross “buying a beach home” off of your list.
Foreigners can legally buy property in Costa Rica—but if you’ve got your heart set on oceanfront, things get tricky. Most of Costa Rica’s beaches fall under the “Maritime Zone,” which spans 200 meters from the high tide line. The first 50 meters are public land. The next 150 meters can be leased via a concession—but foreign ownership is restricted to 49% unless you partner with a Costa Rican citizen or hold residency.
So while you can live near the beach, you probably won’t own right on it.
Even outside the maritime zone, properties in expat-heavy areas (Tamarindo, Nosara, Santa Teresa) are pricey. Affordable Tico-style homes exist, but they may lack the layout, safety features, or finishes that many North Americans expect—especially families and retirees.
Pro: It’s a family-friendly, low-stress culture
Costa Rica’s culture is slow-paced and family-oriented. Children are welcomed at most restaurants and events, and public healthcare covers minors regardless of immigration status.
Many families find that kids thrive here, especially when raised close to nature. Alternative schools (like Waldorf, Montessori, and forest schools) are relatively common in expat hubs. Plus, the slower pace of life encourages more connection, fewer screens, and daily outdoor time.
Con: It can be isolating without effort
Outside the biggest cities, Costa Rica is spread out and lightly populated. If you don’t speak Spanish or don’t integrate with your local neighborhood, it’s easy to feel disconnected—especially in gated communities.
Building community often means saying yes to social invites, joining WhatsApp or Facebook groups, and actively seeking out local events or markets. The friends you make may live 45 minutes away, and you’ll often need to drive to see them.
🌿 Lifestyle, Culture & Safety
Pro: Costa Rica’s pace of life is slow and lovely.
You’re not the only expat lured by Costa Rica’s “pura vida”—literally “pure life” but more accurately understood as a laid-back, grateful, community-first approach to living. It’s not just a phrase; it’s a cultural ethos.
Life here means long beach walks at sunset, unhurried coffee chats with neighbors, and spontaneous afternoon breaks because the rain is too lovely to ignore. It means dialing down from a ten to a four—and most expats eventually learn to love that shift.
Con: Life is louder than you think.
Ticos may be relaxed, but Costa Rica isn’t quiet. Dogs bark through the night. Motorbikes roar past on country roads. Developers hammer away at that dream jungle hideaway next door. Even in more remote areas, there’s no real escape from noise—especially in growing expat hubs. Some expats find the auditory chaos a deal-breaker.
Pro: Expat communities are everywhere.
From beach towns like Tamarindo and Samara to mountain retreats like Atenas or San Ramón, expats have carved out vibrant communities. Whether you’re single or raising a family, you’ll likely find WhatsApp groups, local meetups, language exchanges, and even unschooling pods.
If you have kids, you’ll often rely on this network for playdates, sports leagues, or alternative schooling options. These communities are key to navigating Costa Rica’s slower systems—and they make the transition more fun.
Con: You’ll always be a gringo.
Costa Ricans are warm, generous, and friendly—but true integration takes time. Even fluent Spanish speakers report feeling like outsiders, especially in smaller towns.
Even if you learn Spanish and embrace the culture, many Ticos will still see you as an outsider. It’s not personal—it’s just cultural. That awareness helps set expectations. In Thailand, I felt this starkly; in Costa Rica, it’s subtler—but still present. If you’re arriving with Western money and habits, you’ll likely stand out.
Con: Local jobs are off the table.
If you’re dreaming of bartending in Tamarindo or managing a guesthouse in Manuel Antonio, rethink that plan. Costa Rica prioritizes jobs for Costa Ricans by law. Most expats who work are either remote freelancers, retirees, or entrepreneurs running their own businesses
Con: You’ll need Spanish to truly settle in.
Some parts of Costa Rica are more English-friendly than others, but if you plan to live here long-term—especially outside the biggest tourist towns—Spanish is essential. Doctors, utility companies, school meetings, banks—it all happens in Spanish.
You don’t need to be fluent to start, but even a few dozen hours of study will dramatically improve your quality of life. Language is the key to both independence and community.
Pro: You can start a business or invest locally.
Costa Rica welcomes foreign investment and entrepreneurship, especially in real estate, tourism, sustainability, and agriculture. Starting a business is entirely possible—but it comes with a steep learning curve.
Laws change, paperwork takes forever, and it helps immensely to hire a lawyer. Still, many expats successfully open cafés, eco-retreats, or consulting firms. If you’re patient, the red tape is navigable.
🎓 Education & Family Life
Con: Healthcare quality varies wildly.
Costa Rica’s public health system (Caja) is affordable and generally effective—but not equal everywhere. Rural areas often lack specialists, English-speaking doctors, or modern facilities.
One expat family I know left Costa Rica after two years in Tamarindo. The nearest major hospital was in Liberia—a 90-minute drive. When their son needed urgent care, the idea of waiting for a helicopter to San José sealed their decision to leave.
Private insurance offers more choice, but monthly premiums range from $60–$250 USD depending on age and health. Plan accordingly if you have chronic needs.
Pro: Universities are solid and affordable.
Costa Rica has an impressive 98% literacy rate and a strong public education system. Public universities like the University of Costa Rica and the National University offer high-quality education at a fraction of the cost of private schools. Programs in English are limited, but international students can often find coursework in science and sustainability that appeals to a global audience.
Cons: International schools are expensive.
Many expat families pay for private international schools, especially if they’re not planning to stay long-term. These schools typically follow U.S., British, or IB curricula—and they come with a hefty price tag. Most schools charge $10,000–$18,000 USD annually, especially at the middle and high school levels. Then tack on fees for uniforms, books, and matriculation.
Con: Crime is low—but not absent.
Petty theft is common. Car break-ins and home burglaries happen, especially in tourist zones. Many expats install gates, cameras, and hire security—not because it’s dangerous, but because it’s wise.
More concerning: Violent crime has ticked up in recent years. Homicide rates reached record highs post-pandemic, driven largely by organized crime. It rarely affects expats, but it’s part of the broader picture.
Pro: Taxes are simple and favorable.
Costa Rica only taxes local income—so if you’re earning from abroad (and not on the digital nomad visa), you likely won’t owe income tax. Property taxes are low (~0.25% of value), and capital gains tax is minimal.
However, VAT (value-added tax) sits at 13%, and it applies to nearly all goods and services. If you’re importing a lot of lifestyle comforts, that tax adds up quickly.
💡 Tip: Always work with a local accountant when filing your taxes. The system is straightforward, but it’s not always intuitive.
Con: Bureaucracy will test your patience.
Yes, you can buy land, get a visa, or enroll in Caja. But not without chasing paperwork, hiring help, and spending time in government offices.
Processes change often. Requirements vary by official. It’s not personal—it’s just how it works here. Most long-term expats eventually hire a gestor or legal advisor to deal with immigration, utilities, or permits. For your sanity, you should too.
Pro: Cultural festivals are vibrant and immersive.
Costa Rica’s calendar is packed with colorful festivals that celebrate the country’s blend of Indigenous, African, and Spanish influences. Expect parades, music, fireworks, and community-wide celebrations.
Notable events include the Fiestas de Palmares—a two-week festival in January filled with rodeos, concerts, and food stalls—and Semana Santa (Holy Week), when towns across the country hold elaborate religious processions. These events are joyful, participatory, and a great window into Costa Rican culture.
🌦️ Climate, Food & Outdoor Living
Pro: Costa Rica’s climate is nearly perfect year-round.
Costa Rica’s varied topography means you can choose your ideal weather. Prefer warm days and ocean breezes? Head to the Pacific coast. Want crisp mornings and cool evenings? Settle into a mountain town like San Ramón.
Across most of the country, average temps range from 70°F to 81°F (21°C to 27°C), and there’s no harsh winter. Instead of four seasons, Costa Rica has two: dry (December to April) and rainy (May to November). Dry season is hot, especially near the beach, and often requires A/C—wet season can be refreshing but also brings mold, flooding, and power outages.
For most expats, the trade-off is worth it. Year-round sunshine and lush green surroundings are part of daily life—and it’s easy to fall in love with outdoor living.
Pro: Fresh food and local produce are abundant.
Living in Costa Rica means fresh tropical fruit, locally caught seafood, and farmer’s markets filled with affordable veg. Many expats grow their own papayas, bananas, or herbs right in their yard.
The national dish, Gallo Pinto (rice and beans with a twist), is a staple—and surprisingly satisfying whether you’re vegetarian or not. If you cook at home, you’ll eat well for less.
💡 In more remote areas like the Nicoya Peninsula, access to fresh produce can be limited. Many expats report weekly 3-hour roundtrips to Liberia just for decent grocery shopping.
Pro: You’ll enjoy an abundance of outdoors activities on your doorstep.
Costa Rica is a dream for anyone who loves being outside. Surfing, hiking, ziplining, birdwatching, paddleboarding, scuba diving—you name it, it’s close by.
More than 25% of the country is protected land, and Costa Rica holds over 5% of the planet’s biodiversity. You’re never far from a national park, jungle trail, or wild beach.
It’s one of the best parts of life here: You don’t have to plan a weekend adventure. You just step outside.
Con: Nature is gorgeous—but not always gentle.
Costa Rica’s stunning terrain includes active volcanoes and sits along the Pacific Ring of Fire. While most earthquakes are mild, stronger ones do occur—and emergency preparedness matters. If you’ve lived in places like California, you’ll be familiar with what that means for building safety and emergency preparedness.
The rainy season also brings landslides, road closures, and occasional flooding—especially in remote areas. Power and water outages are common, and rural roads can become impassable. While hurricanes rarely make direct landfall, their effects (especially heavy rains) still hit the coasts.
💡 If you’re planning to live here long-term, research how Costa Rica may fare under worsening climate change. Some areas—especially coastal and flood-prone ones—are already showing signs of strain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is living in Costa Rica worth it?
For many expats, yes. Costa Rica offers a slower pace of life, stunning nature, and a relatively affordable cost of living if you adapt to a local lifestyle. I’ve lived all over—from Mexico to Panama to Thailand—and Costa Rica stands out for its “pura vida” culture and ease of daily life.
But it’s not for everyone. High import taxes, spotty infrastructure, and the hidden costs of staying comfortable—like driving long distances for groceries or importing basic items—can add up.
What are the biggest challenges expats face in Costa Rica?
The three most common struggles are:
- Language: Daily life—healthcare, banking, utilities—happens in Spanish. If you don’t speak it yet, plan to learn.
- Cost creep: Living like a local is affordable. Living like a North American? Not so much. Imported goods, cars, and tuition can wreck a budget.
- Infrastructure and red tape: Expect power outages, potholes, and paperwork. Bureaucracy moves slowly, and patience is essential.
How easy is it to adapt to the lifestyle in Costa Rica?
If you like relaxed schedules, nature, and long conversations over coffee—very easy. Life here moves at a slower, more present pace. For many, that’s the appeal.
That said, the lifestyle shift can be jarring. Dinner happens later. Siestas break up the workday. And the concept of punctuality is…flexible. Adjust your expectations and you’ll settle in faster.
What are the best places to live in Costa Rica for expats?
It depends on what you’re looking for. Here are some popular hubs, loosely grouped by vibe:international schools)
- Beach towns: Tamarindo, Nosara, Samara (surf scene, expat families, yoga retreats)
- Cooler mountain towns: Atenas, San Ramón, Grecia (mild weather, slower pace, affordability)
- Urban options: Escazú and Santa Ana offer access to international schools, private healthcare, and proximity to San José—all with a higher cost of living.
If you’re raising a family or need regular healthcare access, consider proximity to Liberia or San José. Remote beach towns are idyllic—but they come with trade-offs.
Is Costa Rica safe for expats?
Generally, yes—but be realistic. Costa Rica is one of the safest countries in Central America, but petty theft is common, especially in tourist areas.
Most expats install security systems and stay alert with their belongings. Violent crime rarely targets foreigners, but rates have risen post-pandemic due to organized crime. Research your region and ask locals for the real story on safety.