Costa Rica is a top choice for retirement, especially among American expats seeking a new life abroad. Its popularity is well-deserved, as it offers a blend of natural beauty, a welcoming culture, and a high quality of life.
However, choosing a retirement destination is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. It’s important to weigh the advantages and potential drawbacks of relocating to Costa Rica.
Read this article to explore the key factors and determine if Costa Rica fits your retirement plans.
Table of Contents
The Pros of Living in Costa Rica
We won’t lie to you; living in Costa Rica has many fantastic pros. The people, the environment, and the affordability are all major factors. Check them out and everything else on offer below.
It’s Very Affordable
Costa Rica’s cost of living is incredibly affordable. Housing is low, even in coastal areas and the city center. Food, utilities (except for electricity), and social activities are cheap.
It’s Got A Universal Healthcare System
Costa Rica has an excellent public healthcare system that’s one of the best in Latin America. The system covers all medical needs and medication for a cheap monthly payment.
Private medical care is also available and very cheap.
Cheap Flights To and From The USA
Many airlines have flights into all the major cities, which means there are lots of cheap airports. That makes visiting family back home and having visitors come to you easier.
There’s A Specific Immigration Program For Retirees
Costa Rica has an option specifically for retirees called the Pensionado Program. This incredible program gives you residency, given that you have a monthly pension income.
You have to renew the program status every two years for $100.
You Can Retire There If You Invest In A Local Business
You can still get residency if you are not eligible for the Pensionado Program. This is done by investing at least $200,000 in a property or business in Costa Rica. There is also a $250 application fee and a $40 document authentication charge.
Applying For Permanent Resident Status Is Possible
You can apply for permanent residency once three complete cycles are done in a retirement program. You can also decide to keep going with the renewals. But after being in Costa Rica for six years, the government will give you the option to stay permanently.
You Can Always Try Before You Buy With House Sitting
If you’re considering retiring to Costa Rica, you can stay for up to 90 days without a visa. US citizens do not need a visa for short stays, but you must show a valid passport. If you wish to stay on, get your paperwork sorted and start packing.
Rather than rent or get a hotel you can try house sitting in Costa Rica. this gives you an inbuilt community. Plus your able to test living in Costa Rica without committing to it. These are the house sitting sites we reccomend looking at when trying to find a house sit there; https://www.thetravellinghousesitters.com/our-favourite-house-sitting-websites/
It’s Close To The United States
The proximity to North America is another bonus of retiring in Costa Rica. It is easy to visit family and friends without feeling too isolated. Houston is also only a three and a half hour flight ride away from most airports in Costa Rica, which is not too far at all.
It’s A Lovely Place To Live
Drinkable tap water, fast internet speed and mobile connection are available. There are plenty of theatres, galleries, rainforests and beaches throughout the country.
Costa Ricans are also lovely people, so meeting people in friendly communities is easy.
Politically It’s Doing Well
Costa Rica is one of the most stable countries in Central and South America.
It is politically neutral and has a large commitment to peace within its country.
There is no army in Costa Rica, which means more of its budget is spent on its residents.
A Healthy Lifestyle
With its high standard of living and happy outlook, Costa Rica is a great place for your health.
Less stress, surrounded by natural beauty and full of activities where you can explore the outdoors.
Living in Costa Rica you will also have access to plenty of fresh produce, grown locally.
Things Move At A Slower Pace
If you’re looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the US, Costa Rica will probably be for you.
Costa Ricans loves the idea of a slower lifestyle and truly embracing the simple things in life.
It’s a great place to unwind and look after your physical and mental health.
Cons of Moving to Costa Rica
And now it’s time for the cons…
Like any country, there are negative aspects to retiring in Costa Rica.
Consider the factors below and see how they will affect your life.
The Roads Aren’t Great
While the main roads in Costa Rica are pretty standard, others might not be so good.
Potholes are common and there can also be dips and cracks present on the roads.
Landslides during the wet season may also cause delays and road blockages.
Local Driving Can Be Dangerous
Drivers can be pretty dangerous in Costa Rica.
They are known to speed and weave through traffic dangerously.
Be sure to take extra care when crossing roads as pedestrians will be the most at risk.
The Bureaucracy Can Be Painful
Long waits at government offices, healthcare clinics and lots of visa paperwork.
It can be a frustrating process dealing with the bureaucracy in Costa Rica.
We recommend finding a local to help you through processes to make this as painless as possible.
You’ll Have To Learn The Language
Sure, some people will speak English but most people won’t.
Learning Spanish is a necessity if you want to communicate and get around Costa Rica.
That being said Costa Ricans are known for being patient and kind to new Spanish speakers.
There Is A Big Rainy Season
While it is nice and sunny in Costa Rica, its also quite rainy.
The rain season is from May to November.
Old infrastructure in Costa Rica also seems to struggle in wet weather so be wary of leaking roofs.
Things Move At A Slower Pace (Again)
While living at a slower pace can be glorious, sometimes it can be inconvenient when things take a while. Immediacy is less important and things might happen a bit later than expected.
This can be from when your plumber decides to turn up to having friends come to social engagements an hour late.
Want to try house-sitting in Your Retirement?
Rather than moving to Costa Rica, you could live there for free! There is no need to buy or rent, worry about furniture, or pay bills!
There are thousands of retirees house sitting around the world! Its a huge community. If you want to find house sitting jobs for retirees look here. You’ll see how to search for assignments that meet your skills and wants.
Shipping Can Take Forever
Shipping is another element that also moves at a slower pace. Shipping can be slow and expensive, or items can be stuck in customs indefinitely. Mail is also not delivered in some places in Costa Rica, so you will need to travel to pick up your packages.
Crime Rates
While it’s one of the safest countries in Central America, there are still crime issues. This is primarily petty theft but armed robberies can also occur. Generally use common sense when walking at night and avoid public parks in the evening.
Earthquakes Happen
While there are no hurricanes in Costa Rica, earthquakes are common. Many buildings are earthquake-proof, but earthquakes can still cause regular inconveniences. Major or life-threatening quakes are uncommon, but it’s still something to be aware of.
It Can Get Pretty Warm
Costa Rica’s climate stays hot all year round because it is so close to the equator. More mountainous regions will provide cooler temperatures. September and November tend to be a bit cooler, but there will be plenty of humidity.
The Metro Can Be Slow
If you’re taking public transport, you might be waiting a while. There will also be less public transport in rural areas and outside San Jose. If you’re regularly traveling, we recommend getting your vehicle.
Author: Britt
I am Britt. I have been house-sitting and pet-sitting for the past seven years. I have cared for 25 dogs, 35 cats, one turtle, and one rabbit over 80+ houses in 15 countries.
The opportunity to experience different homes, cultures, and communities has been extraordinary.
I’ve connected with homeowners seeking reliable sitters through house-sitting platforms like Aussie House Sitters and Trusted House Sitters. This unique way of living has allowed me to save money on accommodation, explore new cultures, and meet new people.
Being a member of these platforms has broadened my horizons and opened doors to short- and long-term house-sitting jobs. I’ve found joy in providing excellent pet care and ensuring the home is well-maintained.
I get many questions about how to start as a housesitter, so please reach out if you have any questions! I want everyone to enjoy this incredible lifestyle as well!
You can read more about Jay and me here!
Or connect with me on Facebook or in our house-sitting community on Facebook.
I am very interested in doing this in many different countries have you ever been ripped off showing up in a country and doing something and never getting paid how does that work
Hiya Criag,
We don’t charge for it, we see it as a value exchange, so we have never had this problem 🙂 where were you thinking of house sitting?