Mal Pais, Costa Rica
Last updated on Apr 22, 2023
Summary: People describe Mal Pais, Costa Rica as a laid-back beach town with a relaxed atmosphere and stunning natural beauty. Expats love the small-town feel, the friendly locals, the abundance of outdoor activities, and the easy access to the beach. The weather in Mal Pais is typically warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit. The average cost of living for an expat is around $1,500 to $2,000 per month. The cost of a one bedroom apartment is typically around $500 to $700 per month, while a two bedroom apartment can range from $700 to $1,000 per month. The approximate population of Mal Pais is around 1,500 people.
What do I need to know about living in Mal Pais?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Mal Pais, they said:
"Before retiring in Mal Pais, expats should be aware that the cost of living is higher than in other parts of the country. Additionally, the area is known for its remote location and lack of infrastructure, so expats should be prepared to live without some of the amenities they may be used to. It is also important to research the local laws and regulations, as well as the availability of healthcare and other services. Finally, expats should be aware that the language spoken in Mal Pais is Spanish, so it is important to learn the language or have access to a translator," remarked one expat living in Mal Pais, Costa Rica.
"Before retiring in Mal Pais, it is important to understand the local laws and regulations. Make sure you have secure legal residency, and that you are in compliance with all required documents to secure a visa and stay legally in the country. Know the tax implications and other financial planning that comes with retiring abroad. Additionally, be aware of the climate and terrain in the area, and the healthcare, telecommunications, and other infrastructure that is available in the region. Make sure you research the area before committing to a permanent retirement and understand the local culture and language," wrote one member in Mal Pais.

RelocateNow Costa Rica's clients who run through the RelocateNow Program get quick results in formulating and successfully executing our laid out plan for moving to Costa Rica! Expert consulting for future expats in Costa Rica who wish to fast track the process of their move by receiving the specialized information they need, trustworthy connections within the country, and high level 1:1 support through the entire process.
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What do I need to know before moving to Mal Pais?

RelocateNow Costa Rica's clients who run through the RelocateNow Program get quick results in formulating and successfully executing our laid out plan for moving to Costa Rica! Expert consulting for future expats in Costa Rica who wish to fast track the process of their move by receiving the specialized information they need, trustworthy connections within the country, and high level 1:1 support through the entire process.
CONNECT NOW

RelocateNow Costa Rica's clients who run through the RelocateNow Program get quick results in formulating and successfully executing our laid out plan for moving to Costa Rica! Expert consulting for future expats in Costa Rica who wish to fast track the process of their move by receiving the specialized information they need, trustworthy connections within the country, and high level 1:1 support through the entire process.

RelocateNow Costa Rica's clients who run through the RelocateNow Program get quick results in formulating and successfully executing our laid out plan for moving to Costa Rica! Expert consulting for future expats in Costa Rica who wish to fast track the process of their move by receiving the specialized information they need, trustworthy connections within the country, and high level 1:1 support through the entire process.
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 should I pack when moving to Mal Pais?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Mal Pais?
- Will I be able to find a job in Mal Pais?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do expats in Mal Pais appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Mal Pais?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Mal Pais accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Mal Pais like?
- How are healthcare services Mal Pais?
- What are medical services in Mal Pais like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Mal Pais?
- What are emergency services like in Mal Pais?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Mal Pais?
- How are local medical facilities in Mal Pais?
- As a foreigner living in Mal Pais, 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?