Is moving to Costa Rica a good idea?

With its gorgeous climate and plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, Costa Rica is perfect for maintaining a healthy way of life. And as an expat moving to Costa Rica, you'll be surprised at the high standard of private hospitals. You'll get world-class treatment for a fraction of the price you'd pay elsewhere.

What are the disadvantages of living in Costa Rica?

Though many aspects of Costa Rican living are decidedly first-world, the roads are not among them. Potholes, dips and cracks mark the roads so severely that cars can be damaged driving over them. Locals drive quickly and dangerously, passing where it is not safe to do so and not respecting the right of way.

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

Regardless of where you settle down, the overall cost of living is relatively low when compared to the United States and much of Europe. Most expats in Costa Rica can live comfortably on $1,000 to $1,500 USD per month.

How hard is it to move to Costa Rica?

It is easy because foreigners have all the same rights as local residents when it comes to renting or buying a house. The difficulty comes from competing with all the other expats for your perfect tropical home. There is no limit to the type of house non-residents can rent or buy in Costa Rica.

Can a US citizen move to Costa Rica?

The first step in gaining Costa Rican residency is to apply for a temporary residence in Costa Rica. There are a few options for applying for it; one that is most popular among US citizens moving to Costa Rica is to apply based on your willingness to retire in the country.

8 Reasons Why Americans LEAVE Costa Rica [Why I Left]

Why you shouldn't go to Costa Rica?

In Central America and The Caribbean overall, Costa Rica is ranked the number one most peaceful country in the region out of 12. However, the homicide rate increased from 11.9 homicides per 100,000 people to 12.3 in the last year, and crime is still a significant threat to travelers in Costa Rica.

Can I collect Social Security and live in Costa Rica?

If you are a U.S. citizen and qualify for Social Security retirement, family, survivor or disability benefits, you can receive your payments while living in most other countries.

Is healthcare free in Costa Rica?

Costa Rica does have free public healthcare, but only for Costa Rican citizens who are most financially in need. This means that residents with a job and expats will have to pay for use of the public healthcare system (expats must provide proof of sufficient financial means in order to live in Costa Rica).

Do they speak English in Costa Rica?

Spanish is the official language of Costa Rica: it's also the most widely spoken language throughout the country. Other languages spoken are English, Creole, and some Indian languages. All official business and major newspapers are in Spanish, whereas English is widely used in areas frequented by tourists.

Why are expats leaving Costa Rica?

Feeling homesick and missing family while living abroad. The increasing crime rate in Costa Rica. Coping with negativity coming from the expat community. Adjusting to the extreme climate, unstable infrastructure, and cultural/lifestyle differences.

Is it cheaper to live in Mexico or Costa Rica?

Both Costa Rica and Mexico will allow you enjoy a far lower cost of living. Mexico is a fairly clear winner in the cost of living category, though. Your social security check will allow you to live comfortably whatever lifestyle you're looking for. Eating out at restaurants and cafes is extremely affordable.

Can you live on 2000 a month in Costa Rica?

But in many ways Costa Rica is much more affordable than back home. A single person can live on between $1,600 and $2,000 a month.

What should I avoid in Costa Rica?

What are the dangers in Costa Rica?

Country Summary: While petty crime is the predominant threat for tourists in Costa Rica, violent crime, including armed robbery, homicide and sexual assault, occurs in Costa Rica. The Costa Rican government provides additional security resources in areas frequented by tourists.

What part of Costa Rica do most Americans live?

The Central Pacific Coast stretches from Puntarenas to Manuel Antonio. The most popular expat places here would be Playa Herradura, where there is a large upscale development called Los Sueños, Playa Jaco, Esterillos, and down the coast to Quepos and Manuel Antonio.

What is considered rude in Costa Rica?

Taboos/Unacceptable Behavior

Topics such as pre-marital sex, abortion, and gay marriage are generally avoided. Costa Ricans are very polite, so be sure not to put your feet on furniture; always say please and thank you, and try not raise your voice in anger, at least in public.

Are Costa Ricans friendly?

Costa Ricans tend to be proud, friendly, and diverse people who enjoy sharing their culture and social activities with newcomers. Costa Rica is the place of pura vida (pure life), a contagious attitude of living life to the fullest.

What is the quality of life in Costa Rica?

The Quality of Life Index carried out by InterNations, the world's largest expat network that provides information on destinations all around the globe places Costa Rica among the 21 countries that provide a better quality of life.

Do expats like Costa Rica?

Living in Costa Rica is often appealing to foreigners. The quality of life is incredibly high, and your money goes pretty far depending on your town, lifestyle and how you travel. Though Costa Rica is a hub for all things tropical, planning to live in Costa Rica full-time is different than visiting it is a tourist.

When should I avoid Costa Rica?

Avoid the peak rainy season, September and October, unless you're visiting the Caribbean coast. Avoid the weeks around Christmas, New Years, and Easter, especially if you're on a budget or don't like crowds.

What diseases are common in Costa Rica?

Is there a drug problem in Costa Rica?

The presence of criminal elements in Costa Rica has increased apace with drug trafficking trends, and nearly half of all homicides in the country are linked with the illegal narcotics trade.

Can I get health insurance in Costa Rica?

Private Healthcare in Costa Rica

Under Costa Rica's private healthcare system, it is also possible to pay in cash for treatment at private facilities. Private healthcare insurance plans are available through the government-owned insurance company INS (Instituto Nacional de Seguros).

How long can a US citizen stay in Costa Rica?

US passport must be valid for a minimum of one day from the day you enter Costa Rica. As a tourist US nationals cannot stay more than 90 days. For a stay longer than 90 days a residence permit must be established.