Pros and Cons of Living in Costa Rica

Last updated on Jul 08, 2023

Summary: The pros of living in Costa Rica include its beautiful natural environment, with lush rainforests, stunning beaches, and active volcanoes. The country also has a stable democracy and a strong economy, with a high standard of living. Costa Rica is also known for its friendly people and its relaxed, laid-back lifestyle. The cons of living in Costa Rica include its high cost of living, especially in the capital city of San Jose. The country also has a high crime rate, and the infrastructure is not as developed as in other countries. Additionally, the climate can be quite hot and humid, and the rainy season can be difficult to adjust to.

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What are the pros and cons of living in Costa Rica?

Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Costa Rica responded:

"love the climate, people are helpful and friendly - beach sand is too hot in the summer sun," said one expat in living in Playa Jaco, Costa Rica.

"The positive aspect of living in Playa Jaco and Playa Hermosa far outweigh the negative aspects. The area has excellent services for it's residents (locals and expats alike). The infrastructure is good with availability of internet, excellent water, paved roads, and reliable power sources. The police force is present but not overbearing and very helpful. Restaurants, bistros, bars and coffee shops are plentiful and reasonably priced. The community is very multi-national with expats from all over the world. The incredible variety of restaurants of the area boast this desirable quality with cuisine offerings from authentic French, Spanish, Mexican, Italian, Mediterranean, American style steak houses and of course, local Costa Rican cuisine. Due to our proximity to the ocean, seafood is affordable and plentiful. The area has many butchers, bakers, vegetable/fruit stands, along with large chain grocery stores. The area has a good expat community that are friendly, helpful and will assist with helping other expats offering excellent advice and/or encouragement. The beach is the lifeline of the community with many aquatic activities, family beach/surf events, a strong art and culture following, and volunteering opportunities. As the area is popular with local Costa Rican families from the Central Valley, the beach is a big draw and does get busy during holidays and long weekends. The local businessed really rely on tourism outside the area so although the traffic can get busy, it's important for those in the tourism business especially after the pandemic affected the area," wrote one expat in Playa Jaco.

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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.

Pros and Cons of Living in Costa Rica

What are the pros and cons of living in Costa Rica?

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