Healthcare is one of the biggest concerns for anyone moving abroad. I've navigated the system in Costa Rica for over a year, and the reality is more nuanced than the "great healthcare" or "terrible healthcare" summaries you read online. Here's what expats actually get — and what they don't.
Healthcare in Costa Rica: What Expats Actually Get
Healthcare is one of the biggest concerns for anyone moving abroad. I've navigated the system in Costa Rica for over a year, and the reality is more nuanced than the "great healthcare" or "terrible healthcare" summaries you read online. Here's what expats actually get — and what they don't.
The Public System: What It Covers
If you're a legal resident, you have access to the public healthcare system. Emergency care is generally good and either free or very low-cost. Routine care is available but wait times can be long — 2-8 weeks for a non-urgent specialist appointment is common. The quality varies by region and facility.
Private Insurance: What It Costs
Most expats buy private insurance to supplement or replace public care. A comprehensive plan costs £50-150/month depending on age and coverage. Private hospitals in major cities offer international-standard care with English-speaking doctors. A private consultation costs £30-60 without insurance.
Pharmacies and Prescriptions
Pharmacies in Costa Rica are well-stocked and pharmacists are knowledgeable. Many medications that require a prescription in the UK are available over the counter. Prices are generally lower than in Western Europe. Bring a copy of your prescriptions and a doctor's letter for any specialized medications.
What the System Doesn't Cover
Dental care is often not covered by public insurance and private dental is affordable but varies in quality. Mental health services are limited in the public system — private therapy costs £40-80/session. Chronic condition management is available but may require navigating bureaucracy. Evacuation insurance is recommended for serious emergencies.
My Advice
Get private insurance from day one — don't wait until you need it. Find an English-speaking doctor before you get sick. And keep an emergency fund for medical expenses that insurance doesn't cover. The system works, but it works better when you're prepared.
What flights LON to SJO actually cost
Prices below are live fares from Aviasales. We may earn a commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Cheapest dates to fly
| Departure | Price | Airline | Stops | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Feb 2027 | €803 | SWISS | 2 stop | Check |
| 22 Dec 2026 | €852 | United | 1 stop | Check |
| 6 Jan 2027 | €856 | British Airways | Direct | Check |
| 1 Jun 2027 | €862 | W9 | 2 stop | Check |
| 23 Oct 2026 | €866 | American Airlines | 1 stop | Check |
Live fares, checked 23 Aug 2026. Prices change daily.
Booking in San Jose: where to look
We may earn a commission from the links below, at no extra cost to you. We only list services we would use ourselves.
- Airalo — eSIM data the moment you land, no SIM swap
- Saily — Travel eSIM with per-country plans
- Yesim — eSIM covering multiple countries on one plan
Frequently asked questions
Is Costa Rica expensive to visit?
No, Costa Rica is moderately priced. A budget traveler can manage on £35-50/day, while a mid-range traveler should budget £60-125/day. Prices are lower than Western Europe but higher than Southeast Asia.
What's the best time to visit Costa Rica?
Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer the best weather and fewer crowds. Summer is peak season with higher prices. Winter varies by region — some areas are cold and quiet, others are mild and pleasant.
Do I need a visa for Costa Rica?
Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Most Western passports get 30-90 days visa-free or visa-on-arrival. Check the official Costa Rica government website for current requirements before traveling.
Is Costa Rica safe for tourists?
Costa Rica is generally safe for tourists. Exercise normal precautions: be aware of pickpockets in tourist areas, avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar neighborhoods, and keep copies of important documents. Violent crime against tourists is rare.
What language is spoken in Costa Rica?
The official language is the local language. English is spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and larger cities, but less so in rural areas. Learning a few basic phrases will significantly improve your experience.