Moving to Jaco, Costa Rica
Last updated on Jul 11, 2023
Summary: Moving to Jaco, Costa Rica: Expats, retirees and digital nomads talk about everything you need to know before moving to Jaco.
What do I need to know before moving to Jaco?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Jaco, they said:
"Jaco is a popular destination for expats due to its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and close proximity to the capital city, San Jose. Before moving to Jaco, it's important to understand that while English is widely spoken, learning Spanish will greatly enhance your experience and make daily tasks easier. The cost of living in Jaco is relatively low compared to many Western countries, but it's still higher than in other parts of Costa Rica. Healthcare in Costa Rica is of a high standard, with both public and private options available. However, it's recommended to have health insurance to cover any potential medical costs. The climate in Jaco is tropical, meaning it's hot and humid year-round, with a rainy season from May to November. Jaco is a tourist town, which means it can get crowded during peak travel seasons. It's also important to note that while Jaco is generally safe, like any tourist destination, there can be issues with petty crime, so it's important to take standard precautions to protect your belongings. Driving in Costa Rica can be challenging due to the country's mountainous terrain and occasional lack of road signage, so many expats choose to rely on public transportation or taxis. Finally, it's important to understand the visa and residency requirements before moving to Costa Rica. While tourist visas are relatively easy to obtain, obtaining residency can be a more complex process that requires a certain amount of financial stability," explained one expat living in Jaco, Costa Rica.
How do I find a place to live in Jaco?
Please login to continue reading this article.
Not a member? Join Today (it's free).
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:
- What do I need to know before moving to Jaco?
- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Jaco?
- What is the average cost of housing in Jaco?
- How do I meet people in Jaco?
- What do I need to know before retiring in Jaco?
- What should I pack when moving to Jaco?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Jaco?
- Will I be able to find a job in Jaco?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do people like (and dislike) about Jaco?
- What type of social life can someone expect in Jaco?
- What is the social scene like in Jaco?
- What advice to expats in Jaco have about housing?
- What are medical services in Jaco like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Jaco?
- Is the cost of living in Jaco high?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Jaco?
- Why do people move to Jaco?