Moving to Costa Rica

"ESCAZU!!! Even our local Tico friends (who were all educated in the states) and have lived all over CR would agree. CR is booming right now, at least for professionals in law, medicine, computer science/network administration, & architecture/engineering. Our best friend here has to hire software engineers from India because CR workers are so expensive and doing so well here. This is just our opinion of course. For example, one of our son's opinions when he visits us in Escazu is disgust. He thinks why leave the states to just live in an expensive, English speaking, mini-California suburb. He leaves as quickly as he can to stay in the rural & beach areas (he luckily speaks fluent Spanish) to escape our lifestyle. He could never afford to live in Escazu as a musician/artist. Final note and a plug for Outlier Legal and the founder attorney Rafael Valverde who went to law school in the states. Do not make the move without reading his website articles at the very least & he and his team provided enormous support (and still do) in dealing with the puzzling and very unpredictable bureaucracy that is CR," replied a member in Escazu.

"Decide if you like the country or the city, what size housing you prefer, what you like to do, what type of climate you prefer, there are 11 different micro climates within a short distance. Most expats I help want to get residency or citizenship, buy a house and start a business. besides enjoying the beaches, the mountains, the rain forest, etc," commented one expat who made the move to San Jose.

"Costa Rica is a small but incredibly beautiful country with a thriving expat community. Expats should be aware of the tropical climate and prepared to experience hurricane season from May to December. Before moving to Costa Rica, expats should take into consideration the unique health care system, with the majority of citizens having universal coverage. It is also important for expats to have a basic knowledge of the culture and the Spanish language in order to more easily navigate the country. Additionally, the cost of living in Costa Rica can be high, especially in the larger cities, and it is advised to investigate all potential sources of income and job openings prior to making the move," remarked one expat in Costa Rica.

"Do lots of experiential travel and due diligence. It is easy to get rose colored glasses because Costa Rica is so beautiful and the people are so nice. Gringo's are viewed as wealthy and easy targets for getting taken advantage of, plus the legal system is a jungle as well. Do your work upfront, get lots of advice from others and reference everyone, even if you think they are honorable. If you want to enjoy Costa Rica, don't learn by trial and fire or it will taint your experience and enjoyment," said one expat in Paquera.

"Personally, I would advise people to rent for an extended time to make sure the area is what they need it to be, then purchase an existing home, where they can see it finished, the price won't suddenly escalate or leave them with a list of uncompleted tasks, that you will be responsible for," remarked one expat who made the move to Costa Rica.

"We spent 4 years staying for short time in a number of areas. We recognize CA prices are not reflective of Florida or Texas prices. Adjust accordingly. 3 choices: The beach areas: Ridiculously hot & damp; humid so A/C runs non-stop, Where as in Escazu we rarely need it as the temperatures in the Central Valley at 4,000 feet rarely go above 80 or below 63. Rarely use A/C but if we do electricity is crazy cheap in CR unlike CA. The water is great here too, No need anywhere in CR for bottled water like CA. We still love to visit the beach which is only 2 hours away (Pacific side) but just not live there. Central Valley: 3 choices Heredia (nice but a little too rural), Santa Anna (a little too hot & too small, (Although the golf course is amazing there!), and the best in our mind Escazu. The perfect location in Escazu is anywhere close to the Costa Rica Country Club (no we could never afford to belong). Five years ago, we stayed in La Sabana (loved it) first as our home base and after many stays all around CR returned and bought a beautiful condo with high security in Escazu. The cost was 20% of what our condo was in San Diego and 4 times the size! We can walk (or a truly short drive) to so many restaurants, large supermarkets, shops and even two great movie theatres showing films in English! Food was a big worry, yet in Escazu we can buy the same foods we enjoy in the states (and lots of great Italian restaurants!). And virtually no mosquitoes at this elevation unlike the beaches! Also, best hospital in central America only 2 miles away (CIMA, JCHO accredited, many English-speaking docs). Ditto for dentistry. All much cheaper than the states. If you do not know any Spanish (like us) and now retired in your late 60’s, learning a new language can be stressful, Hence Escazu. Our culture shock has been minimal which has been a big relief, but we like the challenges of learning Spanish, & have learned the patience it takes (Tico Time) like spending 3 hours in a bank just to get a new debit card, which stopped working for some unknown reason after a month, needing an attorney to buy a car, etc. But some things are very fast like walking 3 blocks to our internet/TV provider (by the way great hi-speed) and getting service sent to our condo, multiple times, within the hour! And everyone is soooo happy and helpful! The politest most respectful drivers we have ever seen. We have traveled all over the world and have never experienced such absolute courtesy on such a grand scale. Certainly not in the states. And we have made a number of Tico professional friends here, been to their homes (very welcoming) and they have been nothing but helpful, sincere and trustworthy. They truly are the happiest people in the world! By the way we have spent a lot of time in Mexico (my brother lives there) and that is a dangerous unpredictable place compared to CR, but certainly cheaper as is Belize (truly scary)," explained one expat living in Escazu, Costa Rica.

"Condo with high security. However we never feel fearful walking at night to our favorite restaurants or store as their are guards everywhere. This is true pretty much everywhere we have been in CR. We have always felt very safe (unlike dealing we the herds of homeless drug addicts in CA)," said one expat in Escazu.

"Most expats live in condos or houses with small gardens and enormous fences with barbered wire," remarked one expat who made the move to San Jose.

"The cost of housing in Costa Rica can vary significantly depending on the size and location of the property. Generally, the average cost of a single-family home in Costa Rica can range from around $100,000 to well over $1 million for luxury homes, with smaller homes and apartments located in desirable areas costing approximately between $50,000 and $150,000. Living costs and rental prices tend to be higher in major cities such as San Jose, while the coastal areas and smaller towns offer more affordable opportunities," explained one expat living in Costa Rica.

"Totally depends on many factors. Are you looking to rent or buy? How many bedrooms? City or country? Altitude, I.e., beach or mountains? Seasonal only, or long term? Hot water or not? Window screens or not? With Ticos or Gringoes? AC or not? Furnished or not? Close to hospitals and good medical or remote? Want views? What kind? Utilities included or not? Finished or under construction? Will you have a vehicle, and will it have 4WD? Are you ok with public transport (it’s excellent). Pets? You can see there are many possible answers to your question! We chose mountains with Nicoya Peninsula views, good infrastructure, home built to American specs with quality materials by reputable builder, hot water, screens, electric gate, and all in a Tico community of great diversity. City is only 3 kms away over the mountain. Pulperia up the street where we all hang out to watch futball! And we drive a 21 yr old SUV. Love Costa Rica," said one expat in Costa Rica.

"I rent because I do not want to be tied down to a piece of property. Also property is expensive. My rental agreement was easy to understand, only about 4 pages (2 of them inventory of furnishings). I negotiated the terms from 12 months to 6 and the rent amount. It was not difficult at all," said one expat in San Jose.

"Buying a home in Costa Rica can be a great investment. It can provide you with a steady source of income through renting or reselling, while at the same time providing you with a beautiful tropical paradise to call your own. Renting, on the other hand, gives you the flexibility to move after a few months or years without having to worry about reselling or waiting for the real estate market to improve. Ultimately, it all depends on what your individual needs and preferences are. If you want the security of owning a home, then purchasing may be the best option for you. However, if you prefer the freedom to move around, then renting might be a better solution," remarked one expat who made the move to Costa Rica.

"When moving to Costa Rica, you should pack sunscreen, sunglasses, bug spray, and other essentials for dealing with the humid climate. Additionally, it is important to bring comfortable and lightweight clothing, appropriate for the often warm and sunny weather in Costa Rica. It is also smart to pack a first-aid kit with any necessary medications or supplements, and any other items you might need in case of an emergency. Additionally, make sure to bring any necessary converters and adapters, and any important documents required for living in Costa Rica. Finally, don't forget to bring your camera to capture the incredible natural beauty of Costa Rica," remarked one expat in Costa Rica.

"Nothing as we travel back to the US at least 4 times a year, but bring little back to CR. One of the amazing good surprises is that CR has pretty much everything that we can get in the US, for the same price of less (unlike what you read in the forums). That is why we decided against moving our car, furniture, etc. and instead buying here and bringing 4 large suitcases per month of personal items from the US. for a year (for free if you fly Southwest). The caveat is we are use to CA costal prices (now $6 a gallon for gas & 900-1000 per square foot to obtain a dwelling). Even our replacement used car here was the almost exact price as it would have been at home. (understand used car prices have rocketed higher in the states and COVID hit families hard here in CR - hence a great deal)," said one expat in Escazu.

"I wish I had brought my small appliances like bread maker, ice cream maker and deep fryer. I wish I had left my books, formal dresses and jacket at home," remarked one expat who made the move to Paquera.

"I always bring to Costa Rica 1; Irish spring soap 2; electronic gadjets 3; Cherries," explained one expat living in San Jose, Costa Rica.

"Should have brought more: tennis shoes - lots of walking on lots of dirt/rock roads. Contact Solution - very expensive here. Electronics - cameras & laptops here cost double the US price. Should have left all formal clothes in the US," said one expat in San Marcos, Tarrazú.

"On one occasion we had traveled to San Jose to see our attorney and were lost. When we spoke to the doorman of what we thought was his office building we could see that whoever he was speaking to on the phone he was describing us as being dressed very trashy, as we were not wearing business attire. We were dressed in jeans and t-shirts. Most people dress in business attire in the city," explained one expat living in Samara, Costa Rica.

"It is important to avoid touching someone's head or using certain nicknames as both are considered offensive in Costa Rica. Additionally, be sure to dress conservatively in public and avoid public displays of affection, as they are seen as disrespectful.Beyond that, it is important to be respectful when discussing religion, particularly since the majority of Costa Ricans are Catholic. Disrespecting local customs and religious ceremonies should also be avoided. Finally, it’s important to be mindful of how much you are drinking in public, as public drunkenness is considered inappropriate," said one expat in Costa Rica.

"Costa Rica is renowned for its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture and relaxed atmosphere, making it an attractive destination for expats. One key draw is the fact that it is an incredibly safe place to live, with one of the lowest crime rates in Latin America. Its strong healthcare system, quality of life and exceptional climate are other great reasons that expats are being attracted to the country. Another bonus is that it is also one of the most affordable countries in Central America, with a low cost of living, good infrastructure and friendly locals. Costa Rica is also well-known for its ecotourism, and a wealth of activities and places to explore, making it an enticing place for expats from all over the world," remarked one expat in Costa Rica.

"Ojochal is a well known international residential community, not a tourist town. It has a larger percentage of foreigners than nearly any other town in Costa Rica. It is often referred to as "the Culinary Capital of Costa Rica" since many expats have opened restaurants there offering food from their home countries. Ojochal was the starting point of the Costa Ballena Women's Network, now with hundreds of members. There's a large US, Canadian and French contingent there, but you can also find residents from every continent. We now have an Indonesian restaurant, 2 French bakeries -- and Italian, Mexican, French, Thai, Tico and World cuisine. There's one of the most extensive collections of cooking ingredients of any grocery store anywhere in Costa Rica, in fact if you like to cook, this is the place to be. The little supermarket in Ojochal sells everything from Caviar to Curry, 5 kinds of Capers, Spring roll wrappers, Nori, Pickled ginger, polenta, cous cous and everything else you could think of. The expat community has been thriving for over 25 years. The crime rate is also lower than most other areas since it is a residential community and not a tourist town. It is also located south of the passport control checkpoint on the Baru River, criminals north of this point don't want to cross that bridge. The beaches in this area are stunning: Playa Tortuga, Playa Ballena, Playa Ventanas. Plus, it is is also where the mouth of the longest navigable river in all of Costa Rica reaches the ocean (the Terraba River). There are at least 10 phases of development for expats in Ojochal and lots of activities for both expats and Ticos. The neighborhood community interacts more with Ticos than in many other parts of Costa Rica," wrote one expat living in Ojochal.

"Most foreigners who voluntarily move to San Jose, Costa Rica do so for the nice climate, lower cost of living, and friendly people. Some of course move here for work, usually in the multinationals, while a few are running from someone or something (often the law)," commented one expat who moved to San Jose.

"My recommendation is to enroll in the public health system, but it is also VERY IMPORTANT to have private health insurance, since that would avoid worries about the immediate availability of the services that are required," wrote one expat living in Santa Ana.

"Residency to obtain public health care (CAJA) seems to be taking about 18 months, so you will have to use private care until you obtain residency (if that is what you plan on doing). Even with CAJA, many people continue to use the outstanding private facilities available in and around San Jose (possibly in other areas, but I am only familiar with San Jose). There are many expat health insurance plans available and I highly recommend obtaining one if you are under 70. There may be some available over 70; I don't know. I presently do not have any insurance and have been paying out of pocket for some serious medical issues. I suggest you have a fund of $6-10,000 tucked away if you don't have private insurance or have a high deductible," commented one expat living in Grecia.

"In Costa Rica, you must be a resident of the country to qualify for CAJA also know as the national socialized medicine. Additionally, this is not an option but a requirement of your residency here. The monthly fee is calculated based on your income. The local clinic also known as EBAIS is centrally located. If you are in the area, familiarize yourself with it's location. If you are not a resident, there are several private care physicians in the area and they are well educated and professional. If you do not speak Spanish, there are many that are bilingual. I know of at least one that has a 24 hour facility for emergencies. Additionally, specialists from the Central Valley visit these private care facilities on a monthly basis so if you need specialized care, it is available. At present, a general office visit in a private care facility is $40-$45," commented one expat who moved to Playa Jaco, Costa Rica.

"I moved here in the middle of a 5 year treatment plan. I retired early, and had no medical insurance. To stay on my treatment, I was able to buy the medication OTC for $60 a month," wrote one expat living in Florencia.

"Costa Rica offers a wide range of medical services, including both public and private healthcare. The public healthcare system is free for all citizens and legal residents, and is generally of a high quality. Private healthcare is also available, and is often more modern and efficient than the public system. Costa Rica is home to a number of world-class hospitals and clinics, offering a range of treatments and services. Many of these facilities are staffed by highly trained and experienced medical professionals, and offer the latest in medical technology. Costa Rica is also home to a number of specialized medical centers, offering treatments for specific conditions such as cancer, heart disease, and neurological disorders," commented one expat living in Costa Rica.