Retire in San Jose, Costa Rica
Last updated on Mar 02, 2023
Summary: San Jose, Costa Rica is a popular destination for retirees due to its beautiful scenery, vibrant culture, and affordable cost of living. There are several retirement communities in San Jose, offering a variety of amenities such as swimming pools, fitness centers, and social activities. The cost of a nice two bedroom home in San Jose is typically around $150,000 USD, while a nice three bedroom home can cost around $200,000 USD. The weather in San Jose is generally warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit.
What is it like to retire in San Jose?
"Due to its excellent infrastructure, well-established expat community, and great climate, San Jose is a popular destination for retirees. Expats often join local clubs or organizations, such as the American-Costa Rican Association or the Costa Rican-North American Cultural Center, both of which provide a great opportunity to make friends and stay connected with the local culture. The city features a variety of entertainment, recreation, and cultural attractions, such as wildlife spotting, horseback riding, and thermal spas. There are also a range of restaurants and bars, providing plenty of options for social gatherings and nightlife. San Jose also serves as a great starting point for further exploration of Costa Rica, with its many conservation areas, national parks, and stunning beaches only a short drive away," said a retiree who moved to San Jose, Costa Rica, Costa Rica.
"For me there is not enough cultural activity in San Jose and you really, morally have to pay attention or you'll miss an event, show, performance. Things are poorly promoted here. I don't go in for nightlife but in general Costa Ricans are not late night partyers like other Latins. I do not mingle with expats, but I know there are a LOT of them. My routine is walking all over the city, taking pictures, soaking up the atmosphere," said one retiree in San Jose.
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About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
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- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do expats in San Jose appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in San Jose?
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- What are the schools in San Jose like?
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- What are medical services in San Jose like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in San Jose?
- What are emergency services like in San Jose?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in San Jose?
- How are local medical facilities in San Jose?
- As a foreigner living in San Jose, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?