Costa Rica

Costa Rica tree frog
Costa Rica
Arenal Volcano in Costa Rica

Why Costa Rica?

Costa Rica has a lot to offer expats and can be considered the best of all worlds — breathtaking nature, warm weather, high marks for safety and healthcare, and a full democracy that even the U.S. can't boast — all at a lower cost of living. Costa Rica welcomes retirees and anyone wanting to find Pura Vida. That said, the cost of living is rising, especially in expat havens, and the weather can vary dramatically from coast to coast, so spend time in multiple locations in both rainy and dry seasons before you choose a permanent location.

Costa Rica Cost of Living Guide 2023

From healthcare and transportation to utilities, read our cost of living guide for Costa Rica!

Latest Posts About Costa Rica

  • cover of the expatsi report with a young expat couple

The Expatsi Report | Q4 2022

March 16th, 2023|

Welcome to the third Expatsi Report and the final report of 2022! This quarterly report tracks why people want to leave the U.S., what they're looking for, what they have to spend, and more. [...]

  • Expatsi Report Q3 2022
  • Expatsi Report Q3 2022

The Expatsi Report | Q3 2022

November 14th, 2022|

Welcome to the second Expatsi Report! This quarterly report tracks why people want to leave the U.S., what they're looking for, what they have to spend, and more. See the images above, or download [...]

  • digital nomad visas

Guide to Digital Nomad Visas 2023

October 31st, 2022|

There's lots of debate about whether the WFH (work-from-home) revolution will be replaced by the RTO (return-to-office) devolution. Like most issues, it seems like we're divided right down the middle about staying remote or diving [...]

  • end of life care

Where should you retire for end of life care?

October 26th, 2022|

An Instagram follower asks, “In this country the late/end of life system is designed to bankrupt you and your family while providing dismal care. If someone is living on a limited income but would [...]

The Expatsi Report | Q2 2022

September 22nd, 2022|

Welcome to the very first Expatsi Report! This quarterly report will track why people want to leave the U.S., what they're looking for, what they have to spend, and more. See the images above, [...]

  • where gay marriage is legal
  • gay rights laws
  • gay rights infographic

Where is gay marriage legal?

July 10th, 2022|

Updated August 17, 2025 Since the current Supreme Court overturn of Roe v. Wade, and specifically based on Clarence Thomas's opinion in the decision, many Americans are looking to a future without some of the [...]

Anna from StartAbroad

Consult with Zach & Anna

With over 20 years of combined experience living in six different countries, Zach & Anna know firsthand just how overwhelming international relocations can be. From visas and real estate to shipping, vehicle purchases, and even pet relocation, they can address every aspect of your move, saving you time, money, and stress. With their deep international experience and hands-on approach, Zach and Anna will make your dream of living abroad a smooth reality.

Expat Healthcare Planner

Unsure about what healthcare looks like abroad? We've written a health guide that describes
what you can expect in your new country. Click the button to get your report now.

Costa Rica at a Glance

Cost-Of-Living:
Bottom 50%

Ranks Highly For:
Raising Kids

Ranks Highly For:
LGBTQIA

Ranks Highly For:
Retiring

Healthcare Ranking:
Top 50%

Infrastructure Ranking:
Top 50%

Government Style:
Full Democracy

Mostly Legal:
Gay Marriage, Handguns, Pot

Robbie & Steve in Costa Rica

Robbie and Steve assist other expats in moving their lives to Costa Rica. Besides advising people about daily life in the country, the two established a real estate practice grounded in honesty and integrity, providing clients with the confidence and peace of mind that comes from working with trusted professionals. Their dedication not only benefited their clients but also contributed to elevating the real estate industry standards within their adopted community. Schedule your consultation with them today to see how the pura vida fits your future life abroad.

Should you move to Costa Rica?

Take the Expatsi Test to find out if Costa Rica is right for you!