Explore Costa Rica
- Costa Rica Forum
- Best Places to Live in Costa Rica
- Healthcare in Costa Rica
- Real Estate & Rentals in Costa Rica
- Moving to Costa Rica
- Living in Costa Rica
- Costa Rica Resource Guide
- Visa & Residency
- Costa Rica FAQ
- Escazu
- Grecia
- Mal Pais
- Montezuma
- Ojochal
- Playa Jaco
- Quepos
- San Jose
- Tamarindo
- More Articles about Living in Costa Rica
Costa Rica Forum
Talk with other digital nomads and expats in Costa Rica on our Costa Rica forum - meet people, get advice and help others.
Best Places to Live in Costa Rica

10 Best Places to Live on the Coast in Costa Rica
If you're dreaming about living on the coast, here are the 10 best places to live on the coast in Costa Rica.
15 Best Beach Towns in Central America
People are flocking to Central America to enjoy a lower cost of living, the laid-back beach lifestyle and adventure. In this article, we explore 15 of the best places to live on the beach in Central America according to expats.
17 Best Places to Live in Costa Rica
Costa Rica has a lot to offer expats with its tropical climate, eco-friendly culture, beautiful beaches, welcoming people, good healthcare system and relative safety. Many expats warn newcomers about the high cost of housing and food. In this updated version of the best places to live in Costa Rica we cover many more locations such as Playa Flamingo, Nosara, Lake Arenal, Jaco Beach and Ojochal.
Best Places to Live Overseas: Costa Rica vs. Panama
When expats consider a move to Central America, there are more and more options available to them. Often, the conversation will turn to Costa Rica vs. Panama. Read what expats who have lived in both of these countries have to say.
13 Best Places for Families to Live in Costa Rica
Expats in Costa Rica talk about the best places for families to live in Costa Rica. From the cool climate of the Central Valley to the beautiful beach towns in Gaunacaste and Costa Ballena, proximity to international and bilingual schools, safety and lifestyle are all taken into consideration.
7 Best Places to Live in Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a relatively safe, eco-friendly, expat-friendly destination with gorgeous beaches and friendly locals. Many expats say that housing and food prices in Costa Rica are high. We've gathered information submitted by expats about Tamarindo, Dominical, Ojochal, Atenas, Escazu, Grecia and others popular towns.
Healthcare in Costa Rica

Healthcare in Costa Rica
Costa Rica has both public and private healthcare systems. When you become a resident, you must enroll in the public healthcare system (CAJA). Many expats use the public system for routine healthcare and have private expat health insurance for specialists, surgeries and emergencies.

Expats in Costa Rica offer advice about healthcare in Costa Rica..

Answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about healthcare and health insurance for expats, digital nomads and retirees in Costa Rica.

Additional information about healthcare and health insurance for foreigners in Costa Rica.
How to Navigate the Health System in Costa Rica
Discover the realities of the healthcare system in Costa Rica and how it may serve expats, digital nomads, retirees, and others who relocate or reside in the country.
8 Things to Know Before Having a Baby in Costa Rica
Expats discuss their experiences giving birth in Costa Rica. Topics covered include public (CAJA) hospitals vs. private hospitals,high C-section rates, maternity coverage, dual citizenship, permanent residency for expat parents with babies born in Costa Rica, baby stores and formula options.
8 Important Tips about Healthcare for Expats in Costa Rica
Expats living in Costa Rica discuss health insurance and quality of medical care in Costa Rica.
Medical Care Options in Costa Rica
Overview of healthcare in Costa Rica, including CAJA, INS, Private Medical Insurance and the best hospitals.
An Expat Exchange member talks about healthcare services, hospitals and health insurance in Santa Ana.

An expat in Quepos, Costa Rica talks about Max Teran Hospital, public vs. private healthcare, traveling to the Central Valley for specialized care and more.

An expat in Costa Rica talks about socialized medical care, private health insurance, public and private hospitals in Playa Jaco. The quality of care at the hospitals she and her husband have visited surpassed the quality of care in the US.

An expat in San Jose, Costa Rica offers an incredibly insightful report about public and private hospitals, doctors in Costa Rica and the costs of prescription medicine.

An expat in Costa Rica enjoys the low cost of healthcare (a fraction of the cost in the US) and is impressed with the new CAJA Hospital de Osa in Cortez. He offers advice about how an expat qualifies for the public healthcare system (CAJA).

An expat in Tamarindo, Costa Rica recommends private health insurance for a sufficient safety net. The private hospital is a 45 minute drive and a public hospital is a 90 minute drive. If you need an MRI, it's a 5 hour drive to San Jose. And, most non-narcotic drugs are available without a prescr...

An expat in Grecia, Costa Rica advises other expats to head to San Jose for medical care. He hasn't heard any good things about the local CAJA hospital.
Moving to Costa Rica

Moving to Costa Rica: 8 Things to Know Before Moving to Costa Rica
Moving to Costa Rica has become more popular among expats. Making this choice requires a lot of research to ensure the expat experience you hope for will be realized. Expats that live there stress that it should start with a trip there before any major decisions are made.

Expats in Costa Rica offer advice about Moving to Costa Rica.
Reports from Members about Moving to Costa Rica
Real Estate & Rentals in Costa Rica

Rentals and Real Estate in popular cities and towns in Costa Rica.
Members in Costa Rica talk about the Buying Real Estate in Costa Rica.
Living in Costa Rica

2023 Expat Guide to Living in Costa Rica
Expats, digital nomads & retirees talk about what it's like living in Costa Rica.

Expats, digital nomads & retirees talk about what it's like living in Costa Rica.
Reports from Members about Living In Costa Rica
Living in Costa Rica Guide
Our Living in Costa Rica Guide is a primer on everything about living in Costa Rica: best places to live, cost of living, pros and cons, healthcare and insurance, and more.
10 Tips for Living in Costa Rica
Expats in Costa Rica love the Pura Vita vibe, Costa Rican's focus of family and friendship and being surrounded by nature. Can you live in Costa Rica on $1,000 a month? Is driving in Costa Rica dangerous? Expats share their tips and experiences living in Costa Rica.
Banking in Costa Rica
Information for expats living in Costa Rica about banking in Costa Rica, wire transfers, banking fees, banking limitations for those on a tourist visa and more.

Members Costa Rica talk about the pros & cons of living in Costa Rica.
Cost of Living in Costa Rica
If you're moving to Costa Rica, you'll want to understand the cost of living in Costa Rica. Lifestyle, location and health insurance are part of the formula. Expats talk about real estate prices, rents, international school tuition, travel expenses and the fun stuff - travel, dining out and more.
Expats in Costa Rica: Pros and Cons of Living in Costa Rica
Expats in Costa Rica offer some advice on the pros and cons of living in the Central American country. Topics covered include the health care system, where to live, and also some general information about the natural beauty of Costa Rica.
Costa Rica Resource Guide
- Health Insurance
- Moving & Shipping
- Visa & Residency
- Relocation Companies
- Language Schools
- Expat Tax
- Costa Rica Expat Blogs
- Expat Counseling
- Mail & Mail Forwarding
- Expat Banking
- Real Estate Firms
- Medical Evacuation
- Auto & Auto Shipping
- International Car Insurance
- International Income Protection
- Currency Exchange
Visa & Residency

Guide to Obtaining Residency in Costa Rica
Establishing residency in Costa Rica can be challenging. Here are some helpful tips for expats, retirees, and nomads.
25 Countries Introduce Digital Nomad Visas
Many people are escaping their routines and temporarily moving overseas during the pandemic. These countries are welcoming them with open arms by making it easy for visitors to stay and work remotely for months or even a year. Croatia, Portugal, Czech Republic, Mexico and others have joined the growing trend.
Costa Rica Residency
Applying for residency in Costa Rica can be a daunting process. Which type of residency is right for me? Do I need an attorney? Do I have to leave the country every 90 days? What is a cedula? This article answers these and many other questions.
What you need to know to become a resident of Costa Rica
Straight-forward advice about obtaining residency in Costa Rica from Lic Giovanna Barrantes. Covers Pensionado, Rentista, starting a business and working as a Representante.

Answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about visa, residency & work permits for expats in Costa Rica.
Questions & Answers:
- How do I meet people in Costa Rica?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- Is there a lot of crime in Costa Rica?
- What do I need to know before retiring in Costa Rica?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Costa Rica accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Costa Rica like?
- Is the cost of living in Costa Rica high?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Costa Rica?
- What are healthcare services like in Costa Rica?
- Is the cost of living in Costa Rica high?
- What type of recreational facilities are in Costa Rica?
- What is the weather like in Costa Rica?
- Are there good restaurants in Costa Rica?
- Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Costa Rica?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Costa Rica?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Costa Rica?
- What do I need to know when buying property in Costa Rica?
- Are foreigners allowed to own property in Costa Rica?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?
Escazu

Expats' Guide to Escazu
Expats, digital nomads & retirees talk about what it's like living in Escazu.
Cost of Living in Escazu
If you're moving to Escazu, understanding the the cost of living in Escazu helps you know what to expect when it comes to apartment or house hunting, grocery shopping, transportation, dining out, utilities and more.
Health Care in Escazu, Costa Rica
Dive into healthcare resources for expats and digital nomads in Escazu: identify leading healthcare providers, hospitals, and medical centers for optimal care.
Discovering the Best of Escazu, Costa Rica
Our Guide to Escazu: Top Attractions, Culinary Hotspots, Nightlife, and More. Plus, Tips on Making Connections with the Locals and Finding Fun Recreational Activities

Expats offer insight into the cost of living in Escazu.
Grecia

Expats' Guide to Grecia
Expats, digital nomads & retirees talk about what it's like living in Grecia.
Cost of Living in Grecia
If you're moving to Grecia, understanding the the cost of living in Grecia helps you know what to expect when it comes to apartment or house hunting, grocery shopping, transportation, dining out, utilities and more.
Essential Guide to the Health System in Grecia, Costa Rica
Health Care in Grecia: Locate providers, hospitals, and medical centers to find the best health services available for expats and nomads.
The Insider's Guide to Grecia, Costa Rica
Our Guide to Grecia: Top Attractions, Culinary Hotspots, Nightlife, and More. Plus, Tips on Making Connections with the Locals and Finding Fun Recreational Activities

Expats offer insight into the cost of living in Grecia.
Mal Pais

Expats' Guide to Mal Pais
Expats, digital nomads & retirees talk about what it's like living in Mal Pais.
Cost of Living in Mal Pais
Understanding the the cost of living in Mal Pais helps a newcomer what to expect when it comes to apartment or house hunting, grocery shopping, transportation, dining out, utilities and more.
Essential Guide to the Health System in Mal Pais, Costa Rica
Health Care in Mal Pais: Locate providers, hospitals, and medical centers to find the best health services available for expats and nomads.
The Insider's Guide to Mal Pais, Costa Rica
Living it Up in Mal Pais: Your Insider's Guide to Top Attractions, Culinary Hotspots, Nightlife, and More. Discover the Best Recreational Activities, Connect with Friendly Locals, and Experience the Charm of the City.

Expats in Mal Pais talk about the Pros & Cons of Living in Mal Pais.

Expats offer insight into the cost of living in Mal Pais.

Expats offer advice about Buying & Renting Homes in Mal Pais.
Montezuma

Expats' Guide to Montezuma
Expats, digital nomads & retirees talk about what it's like living in Montezuma.
Cost of Living in Montezuma
If you're moving to Montezuma, understanding the the cost of living in Montezuma helps you know what to expect when it comes to apartment or house hunting, grocery shopping, transportation, dining out, utilities and more.
Navigate Health Care in Montezuma, Costa Rica
Explore healthcare options for expatriates and digital nomads in Montezuma: uncover top-rated providers, hospitals, and medical facilities to meet your needs while living abroad in Montezuma.
The Essential Guide to Montezuma, Costa Rica
Living it Up in Montezuma: Your Insider's Guide to Top Attractions, Culinary Hotspots, Nightlife, and More. Discover the Best Recreational Activities, Connect with Friendly Locals, and Experience the Charm of the City.

Expats in Montezuma talk about the Pros & Cons of Living in Montezuma.

Expats offer insight into the cost of living in Montezuma.

Expats offer advice about Buying & Renting Homes in Montezuma.
Ojochal
Expats' Guide to Ojochal
Expats, digital nomads & retirees talk about what it's like living in Ojochal.
Cost of Living in Ojochal
If you're moving to Ojochal, understanding the the cost of living in Ojochal helps you know what to expect when it comes to apartment or house hunting, grocery shopping, transportation, dining out, utilities and more.
Essential Guide to the Health System in Ojochal, Costa Rica
Explore healthcare options for expatriates and digital nomads in Ojochal: uncover top-rated providers, hospitals, and medical facilities to meet your needs while living abroad in Ojochal.
The Essential Guide to Ojochal, Costa Rica
Exploring the Best of Ojochal: Your Guide to Top Sites, Restaurants, Nightlife, and More. From Cultural Experiences to Outdoor Adventures, We'll Help You Make the Most of Your Time in the City.

Expats offer insight into the cost of living in Ojochal.

Expats offer advice about Buying & Renting Homes in Ojochal.
Playa Jaco

Expats' Guide to Playa Jaco
Expats, digital nomads & retirees talk about what it's like living in Playa Jaco.
Cost of Living in Playa Jaco
If you're moving to Playa Jaco, understanding the the cost of living in Playa Jaco helps you know what to expect when it comes to apartment or house hunting, grocery shopping, transportation, dining out, utilities and more.
Navigate Health Care in Playa Jaco, Costa Rica
Health Care in Playa Jaco: Locate providers, hospitals, and medical centers to find the best health services available for expats and nomads.
Discovering the Best of Playa Jaco, Costa Rica
Exploring the Best of Playa Jaco: Your Guide to Top Sites, Restaurants, Nightlife, and More. From Cultural Experiences to Outdoor Adventures, We'll Help You Make the Most of Your Time in the City.

Expats in Playa Jaco talk about healthcare in Playa Jaco.

Expats in Playa Jaco offer advice about Moving to Playa Jaco.

Expats in Playa Jaco talk about the Pros & Cons of Living in Playa Jaco.

Expats offer insight into the cost of living in Playa Jaco.

Expats offer advice about Buying & Renting Homes in Playa Jaco.
Quepos
Expats' Guide to Quepos
Expats, digital nomads & retirees talk about what it's like living in Quepos.
Cost of Living in Quepos
Understanding the the cost of living in Quepos helps a newcomer what to expect when it comes to apartment or house hunting, grocery shopping, transportation, dining out, utilities and more.
Discovering the Best of Quepos, Costa Rica
Discover the charm of Quepos with our guide to the city's top attractions, culinary hotspots, and vibrant nightlife. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, we'll also help you find the best recreational activities to enjoy, and offer advice on making lasting connections with the friendly locals.
Health Care in Quepos, Costa Rica
Explore healthcare options for expatriates and digital nomads in Quepos: uncover top-rated providers, hospitals, and medical facilities to meet your needs while living abroad in Quepos.

Expats offer insight into the cost of living in Quepos.
San Jose

5 Tips For Living in San Jose, Costa Rica
The majority of expats in San Jose, actually choose to live not in the city, but outside of it. There are great options in the surrounding area, including places that are closer to the coast than San Jose.

2023 Expat Guide to Living in San Jose
Expats, digital nomads & retirees talk about what it's like living in San Jose.
Cost of Living in San Jose
If you're moving to San Jose, understanding the the cost of living in San Jose helps you know what to expect when it comes to apartment or house hunting, grocery shopping, transportation, dining out, utilities and more.
Essential Guide to the Health System in San Jose, Costa Rica
Learn about the health system in San Jose: how it can and cannot be used by expats, nomads, retirees and others moving to and living in San Jose.
The Essential Guide to San Jose, Costa Rica
Our Guide to San Jose: Top Attractions, Culinary Hotspots, Nightlife, and More. Plus, Tips on Making Connections with the Locals and Finding Fun Recreational Activities

Expats in San Jose talk about the Pros & Cons of Living in San Jose.

Expats offer insight into the cost of living in San Jose.

Expats offer advice about Buying & Renting Homes in San Jose.
Tamarindo

Expats' Guide to Tamarindo
Expats, digital nomads & retirees talk about what it's like living in Tamarindo.
Cost of Living in Tamarindo
If you're moving to Tamarindo, understanding the the cost of living in Tamarindo helps you know what to expect when it comes to apartment or house hunting, grocery shopping, transportation, dining out, utilities and more.
Health Care in Tamarindo, Costa Rica
Learn about the health system in Tamarindo: how it can and cannot be used by expats, nomads, retirees and others moving to and living in Tamarindo.
The Essential Guide to Tamarindo, Costa Rica
Exploring the Best of Tamarindo: Your Guide to Top Sites, Restaurants, Nightlife, and More. From Cultural Experiences to Outdoor Adventures, We'll Help You Make the Most of Your Time in the City.

Expats in Tamarindo talk about the Pros & Cons of Living in Tamarindo.

Expats offer insight into the cost of living in Tamarindo.

Expats offer advice about Buying & Renting Homes in Tamarindo.