Will I save money living in Costa Rica?
We asked expats if they save money living in Costa Rica. They said...
"No! Costa Rica is far more expensive than I thought. I eat out a lot and most of the time the prices are equivalent to US. You can eat for less at sodas and the market, which I do. Buses are a bargain, but cabs cost far more than any other major city in the region: Guatemala, Managua, San Pedro. Also, since everything is exported, prices for shampoos, soaps, tooth paste, razor blades, and things of that nature are much higher than the U.S. Also, my rent is much higher than anticipated," said a member in San Jose, Costa Rica.

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Costa Rica Legal Residency is an articulately bi-lingual boutique firm with 15 + years of successful experience and exclusive focus on Costa Rica Temporary and Permanent Residency, Renewals, Digital Nomad, and Citizenship. Located minutes from the Department of Immigration.
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Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
"I have lived in Grecia, in the central valley, for 12 years. Over the last year the cost of rental houses has increased dramatically. Currently there is very little inventory on the "ridges", the hills of Grecia. Consequently, the prices have increased. This area is no longer affordable for many people on a fixed income," remarked another expat who made the move to Costa Rica.
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Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before moving to Costa Rica?
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- What is the average cost of housing in Costa Rica?
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- What appliances are typically included in a rental?
Will I save money living in Costa Rica?
If you live in Costa Rica, newcomers to Costa Rica would love to hear your answer to this question.
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.