Moving to Costa Rica: Essential Facts and Tips

More and more people from the U.S. and Canada are trading cold winters for sandy beaches, tropical weather, and a laid-back lifestyle. Costa Rica’s natural beauty, stable government, and relatively affordable cost of living make it a top choice for expats, retirees, and digital nomads.

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For many, what starts as a vacation turns into a dream of making Costa Rica home. If you’re considering moving to Costa Rica from a foreign country, this guide covers everything you need to know—from visas and healthcare to the cost of living and cultural insights.

moving to costa rica

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Living in Costa Rica: What You Need to Know

Costa Rica is home to over 5 million people, with nearly half a million expats choosing to live in the country. The nation is divided into seven provinces, with the majority of the population residing in the Central Valley, which includes the capital city, San José.

Unlike many other Central American countries, Costa Rica stands out with its 97.8% literacy rate, a strong education system, and a stable democracy. The country abolished its army in 1948, directing more resources toward healthcare and education, making it one of the safest countries in the region.

Costa Rica’s incredible biodiversity is one of its greatest treasures. From lush rainforests to pristine beaches, every region offers a unique landscape and lifestyle. The country is a global leader in sustainability and is committed to becoming carbon-neutral, setting an example for a greener future.

Many expats in Costa Rica praise the pura vida lifestyle, a relaxed and optimistic way of living. Whether you’re drawn to outdoor adventures, a slower pace of life, or a warm and welcoming community, Costa Rica offers a little piece of paradise.

moving to Costa Rica
Aerial View of Jaco, Costa Rica

Weather in Costa Rica: What to Expect

Costa Rica’s tropical climate makes it one of the most comfortable year-round destinations in Latin America. While temperatures vary by region, you can generally expect warm weather throughout the year.

In the Central Valley, where cities like San José are located, the higher altitude keeps temperatures mild and pleasant, so heating and air conditioning are rarely needed. On the Pacific Coast, including Guanacaste and the Central Pacific, temperatures are hotter, with sunny dry seasons and distinct rainy seasons.

Unlike in North America, Costa Ricans don’t refer to the rainy season as “winter.” Instead, the country has two main seasons:

  • Dry Season (December – April): Known as verano (summer), this period sees little rainfall and warm, sunny days, making it the busiest tourist season.
  • Rainy Season (May – November): Called invierno (winter), this season brings daily rain showers, particularly in the afternoon and evening. The Caribbean Coast, however, follows a slightly different weather pattern, with rain distributed more evenly throughout the year.

One major advantage of Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast is its protection from hurricanes. The Caribbean Coast has a slightly higher risk, but hurricanes remain rare—only 18 have ever been recorded in Costa Rica’s history.

Costa Rica Guanacaste San Juanillo beach 0005
San Juanillo Beach, Guanacaste

READ NEXT: Best Time to Visit Costa Rica

Cost of Living in Costa Rica: How Much Does It Cost to Live Here?

One of the biggest questions for potential expats is: How much does it cost to live in Costa Rica? While Costa Rica isn’t the cheapest country in Latin America, it still offers an affordable lifestyle compared to the U.S. and Canada. Your monthly budget will depend on your location and lifestyle, but many expats live comfortably on $2,000 per month.

Here’s a breakdown of some typical living costs in Costa Rica:

  • Rent: Prices vary by region, but you can rent a one-bedroom apartment in San José or the Central Valley for $500 per month. A house near the beach typically costs $700 or more. Buying property is also an option, with homes starting at $119,000 in urban areas and $165,000 in coastal towns.
  • Groceries: Imported goods (like specialty meats and brand-name products) are comparable to U.S. prices, but buying fresh local produce and seafood from markets can keep your grocery bill low.
  • Healthcare: Health insurance and medical services in Costa Rica are significantly cheaper than in North America. Many expats take advantage of the public healthcare system (Caja), but own health insurance through private providers is also an option.
  • Utilities & Internet: Basic utilities cost about $60–$100 per month, while reliable internet service is available for $40–$80 per month.
  • Dining & Entertainment: Eating out at a local soda (small restaurant) is affordable, with meals costing $5–$10. Upscale dining and nightlife in tourist areas can be more expensive.

One major financial perk is that expats in Costa Rica often benefit from income tax exemptions on foreign-earned income, making it a tax-friendly destination for retirees and digital nomads.

👉 Looking for more details? Check out our full breakdown of the cost of living in Costa Rica.

Costa Rica Lagartillo OMMia 0193
Working on the porch of our house in Playa Avellanas, Guanacaste, Costa Rica

Is Costa Rica Safe? What Expats Need to Know

A common concern for those considering moving to Costa Rica is: Is Costa Rica safe to live in? The answer is mostly yes, especially if you take normal precautions.

Costa Rica is considered the safest country in Central America, with low crime rates compared to neighboring nations. The government prioritizes healthcare, education, and environmental sustainability over military spending, contributing to a stable democracy.

However, safety varies by region:

  • Outside of San José: Crime is relatively low in most beach towns and rural areas. Petty theft can happen, especially in tourist areas, but violent crime is rare.
  • San José & Urban Areas: Like in any capital city, crime rates are higher, and expats and tourists can be targets for petty crime such as pickpocketing and car break-ins.

Safety Tips for Expats in Costa Rica

  • Avoid walking alone at night in San José and certain urban areas.
  • Don’t leave valuables unattended, especially in rental cars or at the beach.
  • Use only official taxis or ride-sharing apps when getting around the city center.
  • Exchange money at banks or official financial institutions—never on the street.
  • Exercise increased caution if you’re in areas known for crime, such as some neighborhoods in San José and Limón.

While crime exists, many expats find Costa Rica to be a safe country, especially when compared to other parts of Latin America. With common sense precautions, most people feel secure living here.

costa rica backpacking
Tamarindo, Costa Rica

Culture & Lifestyle in Costa Rica: What to Expect

One of the most defining aspects of life in Costa Rica is the pura vida lifestyle. The phrase pura vida, meaning “pure life”, is more than just a saying—it’s an attitude. It reflects the country’s relaxed lifestyle, positive outlook, and deep appreciation for natural beauty.

What Does the Pura Vida Lifestyle Mean?

  • A Slower Pace of Life: Things move at a relaxed speed in Costa Rica. Bureaucracy, services, and even day-to-day interactions can take longer than in the U.S. or Canada.
  • Happiness & Optimism: Costa Rica consistently ranks as one of the happiest countries in the world. Ticos (Costa Ricans) prioritize family, community, and a balanced life.
  • Respect for Nature: Costa Rica is home to some of the most diverse wildlife in the world. Sustainability and conservation are a big part of daily life, from eco-friendly initiatives to the country’s goal of carbon neutrality.
  • Warm & Welcoming People: Costa Ricans are known for their hospitality and friendliness. While many speak English, making an effort to speak Spanish will help you integrate better into local communities.

If you’re moving to Costa Rica for a more laid-back and nature-focused lifestyle, you’ll likely embrace the pura vida way of life in no time.

Internet & Connectivity in Costa Rica: Is It Reliable?

For digital nomads, remote workers, and expats, having reliable internet service is essential. While Costa Rica’s infrastructure is improving, internet speeds and reliability vary by region.

Where Can You Get the Best Internet in Costa Rica?

  • Major Cities & Central Valley: In San José, Santa Ana, Escazú, and other urban areas, high-speed fiber optic internet is widely available, with speeds reaching 100 Mbps or more.
  • Popular Beach Towns: Places like Tamarindo, Jaco, and Puerto Viejo offer decent connectivity, and fiber optic internet is starting to roll out in these towns and surrounding areas. If you’re planning to move to a beach town, it’s best to check if fiber optic has been installed in the specific area you’re considering.
  • Rural & Mountain Areas: More remote locations, such as the Nicoya Peninsula and Osa Peninsula, may have slower connections, but options like satellite internet and cellular hotspots are improving accessibility.

Internet Options for Expats

  • Fiber Optic: Available in most urban areas and increasingly in beach towns and expat communities in Costa Rica.
  • 4G/LTE Mobile Networks: Major providers like Kolbi, Claro, and Movistar offer affordable SIM card plans.
  • Satellite Internet: Starlink is becoming a popular option for those in rural areas needing a stable connection, especially in off-the-grid locations.
  • Co-Working Spaces & Cafés: Many towns, especially tourist areas, have co-working spaces with fast, stable connections.

While internet access is generally goodmany expats recommend having a backup mobile hotspot to ensure consistent connectivity, especially if working online.

moving to costa rica
Oxana and Max working on a laptop.

Healthcare in Costa Rica: Public & Private Options for Expats

Costa Rica has one of the best healthcare systems in Latin America, offering both affordable public healthcare and high-quality private healthcare. Expats moving to Costa Rica often find medical and dental care to be more affordable than in the U.S. or Canada, making it a major draw for retirees and remote workers.

Public Healthcare (Caja – CCSS)

Costa Rica’s universal healthcare system, known as the Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS) or simply “Caja”, provides low-cost medical care to residents. Permanent residents must enroll in Caja and pay monthly contributions based on their income.

Pros:

  • Extremely affordable healthcare
  • Access to 30+ public hospitals and 250+ clinics nationwide
  • Covers most medical services, prescriptions, and procedures

Cons:

  • Long wait times for specialist appointments and elective procedures
  • Limited availability of English-speaking doctors in smaller towns

Private Healthcare in Costa Rica

For those who prefer shorter wait times and more specialized careprivate healthcare is an excellent option. Many expats own health insurance policies through private providers, allowing them to use top-tier hospitals like CIMA in San José or Clínica Bíblica.

Pros:

  • Faster service and shorter wait times
  • Many doctors and specialists speak English
  • Facilities offer high-quality care at a fraction of U.S. costs

Cons:

  • More expensive than public healthcare (though still cheaper than North America)
  • Some procedures and medications may require out-of-pocket expenses

A First-Hand Experience with Costa Rica’s Healthcare System

We experienced the differences between public and private healthcare in Costa Rica firsthand after Oksana suffered a freak surfing accident and broke her leg. While the public hospital provided necessary treatment, long wait times and overcrowding made it a challenging experience. Switching to a private hospital significantly improved the experience, offering better facilities, faster service, and English-speaking doctors.

👉 READ NEXT: Oksana’s Experience with Costa Rica’s Healthcare System 

Health Insurance for Expats

Expats have several health insurance options in Costa Rica:

  • Public Insurance (Caja): Required for permanent residents, covers basic care.
  • Private Health Insurance: International providers like Blue Cross or local insurers like INS offer expat-friendly plans.
  • Travel & Short-Term Insurance: If you’re not yet a resident, providers like SafetyWing cover temporary stays.

Vaccinations & Health Requirements

Costa Rica has modern healthcare standards and requires few vaccinations. However, some are recommended for expats:

  • Required: Yellow Fever (only if arriving from South America or Sub-Saharan Africa)
  • Recommended: Hepatitis A & B, Influenza, Typhoid, Rabies, MMR

For expats in Costa Rica, the combination of affordable cost, quality medical care, and modern facilities makes healthcare one of the country’s biggest advantages.

Allianz travel insurance is a must for any US citizen
Oksana’s broken leg in a cast. Nicoya Hospital, Costa Rica

Quality of Life in Costa Rica: Why Expats Love Living Here

Costa Rica is known for its high quality of life, ranking among the top countries in Latin America for happiness, longevity, and well-being. Expats are drawn to the tropical climate, diverse wildlife, and strong sense of community that make everyday life in Costa Rica unique and fulfilling.

Costa Rica’s Blue Zone: A Longevity Hotspot

One of the biggest indicators of Costa Rica’s exceptional quality of life is the Nicoya Peninsula, which is one of the world’s five Blue Zones—regions where people live significantly longer, healthier lives.

What contributes to this longevity?

  • Natural, unprocessed diets rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, and locally grown produce.
  • Strong social connections and an emphasis on family and community.
  • Active lifestyles with plenty of time spent outdoors.
  • High levels of calcium and magnesium in local drinking water.

In the Nicoya Peninsula, it’s not uncommon to meet centenarians who have lived past 100 years thanks to this healthy and balanced lifestyle.

A Balanced & Relaxed Lifestyle

Living in Costa Rica means embracing the pura vida lifestyle, which focuses on happiness, nature, and simplicity. Unlike the fast-paced North American lifestyle, Costa Ricans value:

  • Work-life balance, with less emphasis on material success and more focus on well-being.
  • Time outdoors, whether it’s hiking in the rainforest, surfing in the Pacific, or simply enjoying the sunset.
  • Less stress, as daily life moves at a slower pace, with an emphasis on enjoying the present moment.

For many expats in Costa Rica, this relaxed lifestyle is one of the biggest reasons to stay.

A Safe & Healthy Environment

Costa Rica consistently ranks as a safe country to live in, with clean air, low pollution, and abundant green spaces. The country is a global leader in sustainability, with initiatives to become carbon-neutral and protect biodiversity.

Thanks to its strong healthcare systemwarm weather, and outdoor-focused lifestyle, Costa Rica boasts a life expectancy of 80 years—one of the highest in the region.

For those looking to escape the stress of city life and embrace nature and well-being, Costa Rica offers an incredible quality of life.

Road to Mal Pais, Nicoya Peninsula. Costa Rica
Road to Mal Pais, Nicoya Peninsula. Costa Rica

Visas & Residency: How to Move to Costa Rica Legally

If you’re considering moving to Costa Rica, understanding the visa and residency options is essential. Many expats start with a tourist visa before applying for temporary or permanent residency based on their situation.

Minimalism: passport stamps

Tourist Visa: The First Step for Many Expats

Most travelers from North America and Europe can enter Costa Rica on a 90-day tourist visa. However, if you plan to stay longer without residency, you will need to do border runs every 90 days to re-enter Costa Rica and renew your visa. While many perpetual tourists have done this for years, immigration laws are tightening, making it less reliable for long-term stays.

Residency Options for Expats in Costa Rica

Costa Rica offers several visa options for those who want to stay long-term.

Pensionado (Retiree Visa)

  • Requires proof of a monthly income of at least $1,000 from a lifetime pension or Social Security benefits.
  • Funds must be converted to Costa Rican colones monthly.
  • Grants temporary residency, which can be converted to permanent residency after three years.

Rentista Visa (For Self-Sufficient Expats)

  • Requires proof of a stable monthly income of $2,500 for at least two years.
  • Many expats deposit $60,000 into a Costa Rican bank account to meet this requirement.
  • Grants temporary residency, renewable every two years.

Inversionista Visa (For Investors & Business Owners)

  • Requires an investment of at least $200,000 in real estate, a business, or a Costa Rican bank.
  • Provides temporary residency with the option to apply for permanent residency after three years.

Digital Nomad Visa (For Remote Workers)

  • This visa is designed for remote workers and freelancers who earn a stable income of at least $3,000 per month ($4,000 if applying with dependents).
  • Allows expats to stay in Costa Rica for one year, with an option to renew for another year.
  • Holders are exempt from local income tax but cannot work for Costa Rican companies.

Permanent Residency

  • Expats who hold temporary residency for three years can apply for permanent residency.
  • Permanent residents can work legally and stay in Costa Rica indefinitely.

Having a Child in Costa Rica

  • Any child born in Costa Rica is automatically a citizen.
  • Parents of Costa Rican-born children can apply for immediate permanent residency, making this one of the fastest and easiest residency options for expat families.

Next Steps for Moving to Costa Rica

  • If you are not sure which residency option is best, starting with a 90-day tourist visa is the most common approach.
  • Those looking to stay long-term should explore the different visa pathways and consider whether permanent residency is the right choice.
  • Legal guidance can be helpful when applying for residency, as Costa Rica’s immigration process involves various paperwork and requirements.

READ NEXT: Guide to Costa Rica Residency & Visa Requirements 

Buying Property in Costa Rica: What Expats Need to Know

Many expats moving to Costa Rica fall in love with the country’s tropical climate, relaxed lifestyle, and beautiful beaches and decide to buy property. Fortunately, foreigners have the same property rights as Costa Rican citizens, making it a straightforward process to purchase real estate.

Can Foreigners Buy Property in Costa Rica?

Yes, foreigners can buy and own property in Costa Rica with the same rights as locals. You do not need to be a permanent resident to purchase real estate. Even on a tourist visa, you can legally buy a home or land.

The only restriction applies to maritime zone properties, which cover land within 200 meters of the high tide line. The first 50 meters from the shore are public land and cannot be privately owned. The remaining 150 meters can be leased, but foreigners must have a Costa Rican partner holding at least 51% ownership.

Finding Property in Costa Rica

  • Work with a Reputable Real Estate Agent: The real estate market is unregulated, so choosing a trustworthy agent is essential.
  • Hire a Lawyer: A local attorney can review contracts, verify land titles, and ensure legal compliance.
  • Check Property Titles: All properties should be registered with the National Public Registry (Registro Nacional). Ensure there are no outstanding liens or legal disputes.
  • Visit the Property First: Many buyers purchase property online, but visiting in person ensures you fully understand the location, condition, and access to utilities and services.

Costs & Taxes When Buying Property

  • Property Transfer Tax: 1.5% of the registered property value.
  • Legal Fees: Typically 1–2% of the property value.
  • Annual Property Tax: 0.25% of the registered property value.
  • Luxury Home Tax: Applies to properties valued over $230,000.

Financing & Payment Options

  • Most foreign buyers pay in cash, as securing a mortgage in Costa Rica can be difficult for non-residents.
  • Local bank loans are available but require a high down payment and proof of stable monthly income.
  • Seller financing is sometimes an option, allowing buyers to negotiate payment terms directly with the property owner.

Should You Buy or Rent First?

Many expats in Costa Rica recommend renting before buying, as it allows you to explore different areas and better understand the real estate market. Renting first also helps avoid the risk of overpaying or purchasing in an area that does not fully meet your needs.

READ NEXT: Guide to Buying Property in Costa Rica

All inclusive Drift Away Eco Lodge in Costa Rica

People of Costa Rica: Who Lives Here?

Costa Rica is home to a diverse mix of locals and expats, creating a unique cultural blend that makes it one of the most welcoming countries in Latin America. While the majority of the population is Costa Rican (Tico/a), the country also has a significant expat community, particularly from North America and Europe.

Costa Rican Demographics

  • The country has a population of just over 5 million people.
  • About 2.4% of the population identifies as Indigenous Costa Rican, with small Indigenous groups such as the Bribri, Cabécar, and Maleku.
  • Most Costa Ricans are of Spanish and Indigenous descent, with additional influences from Afro-Caribbean and Chinese immigrants.
  • The official language is Spanish, but many expats and people in tourist areas speak English.

Expat Communities in Costa Rica

Costa Rica has a large expat population, estimated at nearly half a million people, with many settling in specific regions:

  • San José & the Central Valley – Popular for its mild climate, reliable internet, and international schools.
  • Guanacaste (Tamarindo, Nosara, Playas del Coco) – A hotspot for beach-loving retirees, digital nomads, and surfers.
  • Puerto Viejo & the Caribbean Coast – Known for its Afro-Caribbean influencelaid-back culture, and eco-conscious expat community.
  • The Southern Zone (Dominical, Uvita, Ojochal) – Home to quiet coastal towns with strong expat networks and sustainable living initiatives.

Why Do Expats Move to Costa Rica?

Expats choose Costa Rica for various reasons, including:

  • relaxed lifestyle and pura vida mindset.
  • stable democracy and safe country to live in.
  • A strong focus on sustainability and nature conservation.
  • Affordable healthcare and cost of living compared to North America.
  • Opportunities for remote work, business, and retirement.

Costa Rica offers a balanced mix of adventure, community, and quality of life, making it a top choice for expats, retirees, and digital nomads alike.

Read more: Living in Costa Rica as an Expat (Insert internal link if we have)

Schools & Education in Costa Rica: What Expats Need to Know

Costa Rica has a strong education system, with a 97.8% literacy rate, one of the highest in Latin America. Expats can choose between public, private, and international schools, depending on their needs.

Public vs. Private Schools

  • Public Schools are free but taught in Spanish, with varying quality depending on location.
  • Private & International Schools offer bilingual education, smaller class sizes, and international curriculums like IB, U.S., or British systems, with tuition ranging from $3,000–$15,000 per year.

Best Areas for Expat Families

Most private and international schools are in:

  • Escazú & Santa Ana (San José area) – Top-tier bilingual schools.
  • Heredia & Alajuela – Affordable options close to the city.
  • Guanacaste & Southern Zone – A growing number of international schools for expat families.

Top International Schools in Costa Rica

  • The American International School (San José) – U.S. curriculum with IB options.
  • Country Day School (Escazú & Guanacaste) – Highly rated bilingual education.
  • La Paz Community School (Guanacaste) – Popular among expats on the Pacific Coast.

Homeschooling in Costa Rica

Homeschooling is not officially recognized, but many expat families use online programs or U.S.-based distance learning.

Costa Rica offers good education options for expats, whether choosing public, private, or international schools.

Language & Learning Spanish in Costa Rica

While many expats in Costa Rica live comfortably speaking English, learning Spanish makes daily life easier and helps with integrating into the local community.

Do You Need to Speak Spanish in Costa Rica?

  • In tourist areas and expat communities, many locals speak English.
  • In rural areas and government offices, Spanish is essential.
  • Knowing basic Spanish phrases improves daily interactions and shows respect for Costa Rican culture.

How to Learn Spanish in Costa Rica

  • Language Schools – Popular options include Intercultura Costa Rica (Heredia & Sámara), CPI Spanish (Guanacaste), and The Spanish School (San José).
  • Immersion & Conversation – Speaking with locals is one of the best ways to improve.
  • Online Learning – Apps like Duolingo, Rosetta Stone, and Babbel help build vocabulary before moving.

Spanish Tips for Expats

  • Learn key phrases like greetings, ordering food, and asking for directions.
  • Practice with locals—Costa Ricans are friendly and patient with Spanish learners.
  • Don’t be afraid to make mistakes—locals appreciate the effort.

While speaking Spanish is not required in Costa Rica, making an effort to learn the language enhances the expat experience and helps with daily life and cultural connections.

Learning Spanish with Duolingo
Learning Spanish with Duolingo

Buying a Car in Costa Rica: What Expats Should Know

While public transportation is an option in Costa Rica, many expats choose to buy a car to explore beyond the main cities and tourist areas. However, the process of purchasing and maintaining a car in Costa Rica is different from North America.

Buying vs. Importing a Car

  • Buying a Car in Costa Rica – Used cars are expensive due to high import duties, but purchasing locally avoids the hassle of import taxes. Popular brands include Toyota, Hyundai, and Suzuki due to their durability on Costa Rica’s roads.
  • Importing a Car – Vehicles from North America are taxed between 50–80% of their value. Importing an older vehicle in good condition lowers the tax burden but increases the tax percentage.

Costs & Considerations

  • Car prices are higher than in the U.S. and Canada due to import duties.
  • Annual Marchamo (registration & insurance) and Riteve (vehicle inspection) are required.
  • 4WD vehicles are recommended if you plan to live in rural areas or visit remote beaches.

Electric Cars in Costa Rica

  • Import taxes on electric cars are waived, making them an affordable and eco-friendly option.
  • Charging stations are increasing, especially in San José and the Central Valley.

Many expats find that owning a car provides more freedom and flexibility, especially for those living outside major cities.

Book the Best Car Rental in Costa Rica

Renting a car in Costa Rica can be one of the most challenging parts of your visit! Unfortunately, car rentals in Costa Rica often come with significant hidden insurance fees, result in many frustrations at pick-up. The experience has ruined many trips and ballooned trip budgets for friends, family and followers. After years of not having a good solution, we finally found an honest car rental company that we proudly recommend to our readers.

We recommend booking with Vamos Costa Rica – a local car rental company that offers fantastic service and NO HIDDEN FEES and get 10% of your rental rate plus FREE additional driver, FREE child seat and other perks and benefits when booking through our link below!

Book early as rental car availability all across Costa Rica is currently lower than demand!

Costa Rica Lagartillo Drift Away hotel 0051

READ NEXT: Renting a Car in Costa Rica

Where to Live in Costa Rica: Choosing the Best Location

Costa Rica offers diverse living environments, from vibrant cities to quiet beach towns and lush mountain retreats. The best place to live depends on your lifestyle, budget, and priorities.

  • San José & Central Valley – Ideal for city amenities, reliable internet, and international schools.
  • Guanacaste (Tamarindo, Nosara, Playas del Coco) – Popular for beach life, expat communities, and warm weather.
  • Southern Zone (Dominical, Uvita, Ojochal) – Known for a slower pace, sustainable living, and stunning nature.
  • Caribbean Coast (Puerto Viejo, Cahuita) – Offers Afro-Caribbean culture, lush rainforests, and a relaxed vibe.
  • Mountain Towns (Atenas, San Isidro, Monteverde) – Cooler climates, affordable housing, and close-knit communities.

Many expats rent first to explore different areas before deciding where to settle long-term.

Rural road in Guanacaste, Costa Rica
Rural road in Guanacaste, Costa Rica

READ MORE: Best Places to Live in Costa Rica

Moving to Costa Rica with Pets

Bringing pets to Costa Rica is straightforward, but preparation is required.

  • Cats and dogs do not need quarantine, but a health certificate from a licensed vet is required within two weeks of travel.
  • Vaccinations must be up to date, including rabies, distemper, and parvovirus for dogs and feline leukemia for cats.
  • Unaccompanied pets require an import permit, but those traveling with their owners do not.

Once in Costa Rica, vet care is affordable, and pet-friendly rentals are widely available, especially in expat communities.

Final Moving Tips for Expats in Costa Rica

Moving to Costa Rica can be smooth and stress-free with the right preparation.

  • Pack light – Essentials like clothing, documents, and electronics are easy to bring, while furniture and household items can be purchased locally.
  • Understand import taxes – Shipping large items can be costly due to duty taxes, so research what’s worth bringing.
  • Set up a local bank account – Many expats rely on foreign banks, but opening a Costa Rican bank account can make daily transactions easier.
  • Expect a slower pace – The pura vida lifestyle means things take time, from setting up utilities to getting paperwork processed.

Starting with a short-term rental and exploring different areas before committing to a long-term move can help ensure a smoother transition

READ NEXT:Buying Property In Costa Rica

Is Moving to Costa Rica Right for You?

Costa Rica offers a high quality of life, natural beauty, and a relaxed lifestyle, making it a popular destination for expats, retirees, and digital nomads. With affordable healthcare, diverse housing options, and welcoming communities, it’s easy to see why so many people make the move.

Before relocating, consider your budget, visa options, and preferred lifestyle. Renting first, learning some Spanish, and embracing the pura vida mindset can help ease the transition.

Have questions about moving to Costa Rica? Let us know in the comments—we’d love to help!

5 thoughts on “Moving to Costa Rica: Essential Facts and Tips”

  1. Thank you so much for this valuable info!! I have not yet visited, but have been fantasizing about moving to Costa Rica in ten years after my youngest graduates high school and I can retire outside of the US! Looking at properties all the time…I know I need to visit, COVID didn’t help. I really want to live away from a big town, don’t need expats, more of a bohemian hippie vibe, would like a lot of greenery to trim…I’m thinking mountainous but have to be somewhat close (20 min) to the beach as I am really used to living on the coast. Is it uncommon to live in manufactured homes? Is anyone building container homes? For now, I’d just buy property and hope to build. How difficult is it to get materials? Do you have to obtain building permits? Sorry! So many questions!
    Thank you again!
    For now I’ll keep dreaming, but if anything hits you as far as great places that I should narrow down my search to include that would be appreciated!
    TL

  2. Amanda St. Claire

    Hi! I’m buying a house above Ocotal Beach in Guanacaste (initially as an investment for rental) but I plan to move in six years. I’m curious if I should plan to bring in appliances, pillows etc. or if I can find good values in country.

    I’d love any advice you care to offer about decorating a rental home and getting started on this new adventure. I am hiring a management company to oversee the day to day.

    1. you can buy everything in Costa Rica, but appliances here are more expensive than in the states. Pillows and other home accessories are also available, but the selection is somewhat limited. We would recommend bringing these items from the states, if you have the option. In terms of decorating a rental, it depends on how you want to decorate it. Cheap-made and low quality route – everything is available in Costa Rica in San Jose, if you want high quality items in the home – it’s best to ship these items down. It’s hard to buy anything online or search for decor items/furniture online in Costa Rica, so best to do it when you are on the ground. There are a few decent stores in San Jose.

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