17 Best Places to Live in Costa Rica (2026 Update)

Expats are spread all over Costa Rica. Some are drawn to the beach. Others prefer cooler mountain towns. Some want jungle privacy. Others want access to the energy and amenities of the Central Valley. In Costa Rica, "best" is always subjective. What feels ideal to one person can feel completely wrong to another.

This guide to the best places to live in Costa Rica is based on recommendations and real-world experiences from expats across the country. If you're considering a move to Costa Rica, use this list as a starting point — and then explore the regions that align with your climate preferences, lifestyle priorities, and budget.

• The Guanacaste Region of Costa Rica
  • 1. Playa Hermosa and Playas del Coco
  • 2. Playa Flamingo, Brasilito and Potrero Area
  • 3. Tamarindo
  • 4. Nosara
  • 5. Lake Arenal
• Guanacaste vs. Puntarenas
• Puntarenas Province
  • 6. Playa Jaco (Jaco Beach)
  • Costa Ballena
    • 7. Dominical
    • 8. Uvita
    • 9. Ojochal
• The Central Valley
  • 10. San Ramon
  • 11. Atenas
  • 12. Cariari
  • 13. Heredia
  • 14. Grecia
  • 15. Santa Ana
  • 16. Escazu
  • 17. Ciudad Colon

The Guanacaste Region of Costa Rica

For expats considering beach life in Guanacaste, the advice is often simple: explore before deciding. As one long-term resident put it, "Look at Tamarindo, Playas del Coco, and Samara for mid-sized beach towns with solid restaurants and shopping. For smaller options, drive the coastal towns west and south of Liberia — Playa Grande, Potrero, Playa Flamingo, Playa Hermosa. You have to find the town that feels right."

1. Playa Hermosa and Playas del Coco

Population: estimated at 1,000
Location: Nicoya Peninsula on the northwestern Pacific Coast, 20–30 minutes from Liberia International Airport, 4 hrs from San Jose

Playa Hermosa in Guanacaste Province is sometimes confused with Playa Hermosa de Jaco in Puntarenas Province, a well-known surf town. This Playa Hermosa sits just north of Playas del Coco and offers a quieter beach atmosphere with easy access to services. Lakeside International School is located about 15 minutes inland.

One expat living in Playas del Coco shared, "I knew I wanted the ocean. We've adjusted to the heat with screens and ceiling fans and only run AC at night. I love walking the beach and buying fresh red snapper. You just learn where the locals shop — groceries and fruit stands make a big difference in cost."

Restaurants Recommendations: Enjoy ocean views and seafood at The Lookout – Playas del Coco. Father Rooster – Playa Hermosa is a lively beachfront favorite just down the coast. In Playa Hermosa, Aqua Sport – Playa Hermosa is a popular sunset cocktail spot.

2. Playa Flamingo, Brasilito and Potrero Area

Population: estimated at 1,000 – 2,000 (seasonal)
Location: Nicoya Peninsula on the northwestern Pacific Coast, 40 minutes south of Playas del Coco, 55 minutes from Liberia International Airport, 4 hrs from San Jose

Brasilito, Playa Flamingo, and Potrero attract expats looking for strong international communities without feeling disconnected from local culture. Accredited schools in the area include La Paz Community School – Guanacaste and Costa Rica International Academy (CRIA). Playa Conchal is just 15 minutes from Brasilito, and Flamingo and Potrero sit just up the coast.

Restaurants Recommendations: Breakfast at Carpe Diem Café – Potrero, lunch with a view at Gracia Mar Vista – Flamingo, and sunset drinks at Coco Loco – Flamingo Beach.

3. Tamarindo

Population: approximately 6,800
Location: Nicoya Peninsula on the northwestern Pacific Coast, 20–30 minutes from Liberia International Airport, 4 hrs from San Jose

Tamarindo is one of Guanacaste's most established beach towns. An expat described it this way: "Great beach, gradual sand entry, lots of restaurants. You just need to stay clear of the surf zones if you're not a surfer. There's a big expat presence, though no single 'meeting spot.' Breakfast at Nogui's is popular."

Others caution that Tamarindo comes at a premium. Housing and dining costs are among the highest in Guanacaste. Still, many appreciate the sunshine — even during rainy season — the nightlife in high season, and the convenience of having dozens of restaurants within walking distance.

Restaurants Recommendations: Reserve a sunset table at Panga's Beach Club – Tamarindo, catch a game at Sharky's Sports Bar – Tamarindo, or grab breakfast at La Bodega – Tamarindo.

4. Nosara

Population: approximately 5,800
Location: Nicoya Peninsula on the northwestern Pacific Coast, 1.75 hrs south of Tamarindo, 2.25 hrs from Liberia International Airport, 4 hrs from San Jose

Nosara — particularly Playa Guiones — is known for its low-density development and eco-focused design. Businesses are tucked into the foliage rather than lined up along a strip. One expat noted, "You don't see rows of high-rise hotels. The beach is protected by a tree line. It feels intentional."

Another resident shared that volunteering and community involvement make it easier to connect, describing Nosara as having one of the stronger expat community networks along the coast.

Restaurants Recommendations: Visit the Beach Dog Café – Playa Guiones near Playa Guiones for tacos and live music, or enjoy brunch and music at El Chivo – Nosara.

5. Lake Arenal

Population: approximately 17,000+
Location: Inland lake region, 3.5 hrs from San Jose, 2 hrs from the Pacific Coast

Lake Arenal includes towns such as Nuevo Arenal, Tronadora, Tilarán, and La Fortuna. The region attracts retirees, entrepreneurs, and long-term residents drawn to cooler temperatures and lake views. Community life is active, with social groups, charity events, and water sports common.

Residents note that safety is typical of rural Costa Rica, with many choosing gated communities if they travel frequently. The population includes a mix of Costa Ricans and international residents from North America and Europe.

Restaurants Recommendations: Catch live music at Moya's Place – Nuevo Arenal, dine at Don Rufino – La Fortuna, and visit Down to Earth Coffee – La Fortuna.

Guanacaste vs. Puntarenas

One long-term resident who has lived in Costa Rica for over a decade summed it up this way: Guanacaste tends to attract the largest concentration of expats and tourists, thanks to its dry climate, wide sandy beaches, and consistent sunshine. It receives the least rainfall in the country and offers a more developed infrastructure along the northern Pacific coast.

By contrast, Puntarenas — particularly further south — feels greener, more humid, and less developed in places. Guanacaste's "Gold Coast" is known for beach towns like Tamarindo and Nosara, while Puntarenas offers a more dramatic landscape where jungle-covered mountains meet the ocean.

Puntarenas Province

Puntarenas Province lies directly south of Guanacaste and makes up the majority of Costa Rica's Pacific coastline. It is the country's largest province and includes both well-established expat beach towns and quieter, less developed communities.

6. Playa Jaco (Jaco Beach)

Population: approximately 10,000
Location: Central Pacific Coast

Playa Jaco is one of the most accessible beach towns from San Jose, located roughly 90 minutes from the international airport (SJO). An expat living there noted that Jaco appeals to foreigners because of its sunsets, proximity to the capital, shopping access, and active social scene.

Compared to some northern beach towns, Jaco offers a wider range of housing prices — from condos to single-family homes — and a strong mix of locals and expats. The weekly farmers market (feria) is popular for fresh produce and seafood at reasonable prices.

Restaurants Recommendations: Try Puddle Fish Brewery – Jaco for craft beer and comfort food, Tacobar – Jaco for casual beach bites, and El Hicaco – Jaco for classic seafood.

Costa Ballena

The Costa Ballena region, located along the southern Pacific coast of Puntarenas Province, is known for its natural beauty and relatively large retiree and expat presence. "Ballena" means whale, and humpback whales migrate through the area seasonally from December to April.

Marino Ballena National Park in Uvita is famous for its whale-tail-shaped sandbar visible at low tide. For a deeper overview of the region's beaches and activities, see Steve Linder's article, The Costa Ballena Region of Costa Rica.

Three towns in Costa Ballena are particularly popular with expats:

7. Dominical

Population: approximately 700
Location: 1.5 hrs south of Jaco Beach, 3+ hrs from San Jose

Dominical is a small surf town with a laid-back feel. One expat pointed out that just 20 miles inland is San Isidro de El General (Perez Zeledon), which provides full city amenities — supermarkets, medical clinics, banks, and bus connections along the Pan-American Highway.

Housing costs vary, with rentals outside the immediate beach area generally more affordable. Access to transportation and regional services makes Dominical appealing to those who want beach living without complete isolation.

Restaurants Recommendations: Eat at Cafe Mono Congo – Dominical, grab a craft beer at Fuego Brewing Company – Dominical, or enjoy ocean views at La Parcela – Dominical.

8. Uvita

Population: approximately 1,000
Location: 15 minutes south of Dominical, 3.25 hours from San Jose

Uvita offers a more humid and greener environment than northern Guanacaste. The mountains descend directly toward the ocean here, allowing residents to choose higher elevations for cooler temperatures while maintaining beach access.

Centro Educativo Costa Ballena is a bilingual Montessori-style private school serving pre-K through 6th grade. Uvita also hosts the well-known Envision Festival, which has grown significantly in recent years.

Restaurants Recommendations: Visit the local Farmer's Market, enjoy pizza at Pizza Time, or grab coffee or a beer at Sibu Café – Uvita.

9. Ojochal

Population: estimated at 1,000
Location: 15 minutes south of Uvita, 3.5 hours from San Jose

Ojochal is a small but internationally diverse village with a strong expat presence. Residents often highlight the town's community events, international dining scene, and strict zoning laws that limit high-rise development and preserve the natural surroundings.

The southern Pacific region (Dominical, Uvita, Ojochal) generally offers a slower pace of life and, in some cases, lower living costs than the northern beach towns. Community gatherings, farmers markets, and volunteer activity are common ways newcomers integrate.

Restaurants Recommendations: Dine at Castillo's Kitchen – Ojochal, Citrus – Ojochal, or Heliconia – Ojochal.

The Central Valley

The Central Valley surrounds San Jose in all directions and includes many of Costa Rica's most established cities and suburbs. Sitting at roughly 4,000 feet above sea level, the region offers cooler temperatures than the coast and convenient access to the international airport (SJO). Many expats choose the Central Valley for its proximity to hospitals, international schools, shopping, employment opportunities, and overall infrastructure.

Schools in The Central Valley

The Central Valley has the country's highest concentration of international schools. Notable options include American International School (AIS) in Ciudad Cariari (Heredia), The Country Day School in San Rafael (Alajuela), the British School of Costa Rica, Lincoln School in Heredia, Tree of Life International School in Santa Ana, the European School, and the Pan-American School.

Healthcare in the Central Valley

Costa Rica's leading public and private hospitals are located in the Central Valley. Many expats point out that living in towns such as Grecia or Atenas allows access to high-quality medical care while remaining within driving distance of the beach.

Below are several popular expat towns in the Central Valley:

10. San Ramon

Population: approximately 11,000
Location: 1 hr northwest of San Jose, 1 hr from the Gulf of Nicoya

San Ramon is often described as a transportation hub. Residents can take buses to the beach, the capital, or the mountains at low cost. Many find it possible to live without a car. The town has a modern hospital, a growing expat community, restaurants, a small shopping mall, and a cooler mountain climate.

Restaurants Recommendations: Savory a la Thai – San Ramon, Chepe's – San Ramon, and Elements Coffee House – San Ramon.

11. Atenas

Population: approximately 5,000
Location: 35 minutes west of downtown San Jose

Atenas sits between San Jose and the Pacific coast and is known for its small-town atmosphere and strong expat presence. The town has several gated communities as well as traditional barrios. Some describe it as extremely safe and family-oriented.

Atenas is often associated with having one of the "best climates in the world," though experiences vary depending on elevation. Some neighborhoods are noticeably cooler than others, particularly at higher altitudes. Dining and nightlife are limited compared to larger towns, but many residents value the slower pace and sense of familiarity.

Restaurants Recommendations: El Balcon del Cafe – Atenas and Kay's Gringo Postres and Cafe – Atenas.

12. Cariari

Population: approximately 22,000
Location: 20 minutes northwest of downtown San Jose

Cariari (in Heredia Province) is popular with families due to its proximity to Cariari Country Club and American International School. The area offers suburban-style housing near the airport and major shopping centers. Living costs can be higher than expected, and many recommend renting first before purchasing.

13. Heredia

Population: approximately 125,000
Location: 20 minutes north of downtown San Jose

Heredia is one of the larger cities in the Central Valley and home to the European School. It offers urban conveniences with nearby access to cooler mountain climates. Elevation varies significantly, allowing residents to choose different microclimates within a short drive.

Restaurants Recommendations: Artisan Brew Pub – Heredia and El Tigre Vestido's – Santa Barbara.

14. Grecia

Population: approximately 15,000
Location: 45 minutes northwest of downtown San Jose

Grecia appeals to expats seeking a quieter, more local experience. Compared to San Jose and Alajuela, it feels less hectic. Many residents note that Spanish proficiency improves integration, as the expat population is present but not dominant in most neighborhoods.

Restaurants Recommendations: Cafe Delicias – Grecia and Mas Q Sabor – Grecia.

15. Santa Ana

Population: approximately 12,200
Location: 25 minutes west of downtown San Jose

Santa Ana is one of the Central Valley's more established expat suburbs. It offers proximity to international schools, restaurants, and shopping while remaining outside central San Jose.

Restaurants Recommendations: Bacchus – Santa Ana and Porky's Burger Bar – Santa Ana.

16. Escazu (or San Rafael de Escazu)

Population: approximately 15,000
Location: 15 minutes west of downtown San Jose

Escazu is considered one of the more upscale suburbs of San Jose. It offers extensive shopping, restaurants, international schools, and access to private hospitals such as CIMA Hospital. Some appreciate its convenience and English accessibility; others prefer quieter towns with less traffic and development.

Restaurants Recommendations: Bulali – Escazu, Zonna Gastro Bar – Escazu, and Taj Mahal – Escazu.

17. Ciudad Colon

Population: approximately 10,000
Location: 30 minutes west of downtown San Jose

Ciudad Colon offers a smaller-town feel while remaining close to Santa Ana and Escazu. It is home to the University for Peace, which brings an international presence to the community.

Restaurants Recommendations: Restaurante Casa 76 – Ciudad Colon, Che Pizza – Ciudad Colon, and Caribbean Jam – Ciudad Colon.