Costa Rica, known for its lush rainforests, sandy beaches, and laid-back lifestyle, has become an increasingly popular destination for expats, digital nomads, and retirees. But what does it take to move to this Central American paradise? Here's our guide to making the move to Costa Rica.
Visas and Residency
There are several visa options for those looking to move to Costa Rica, including:
- Tourist Visa: Allows for a 90-day stay in Costa Rica. This can be extended for an additional 90 days by leaving the country and re-entering.
- Temporary Residency: This visa is for those who have a job, own a business, or are studying in Costa Rica. It must be renewed every two years.
- Pensionado (Retiree) Visa: This visa is for those who receive a minimum pension of $1,000 per month. It is renewable every two years.
- Rentista Visa: This visa is for those who have a guaranteed income of $2,500 per month for at least two years. It is also renewable every two years.
To obtain residency, you will need to provide various documents, including a valid passport, birth certificate, and proof of income. The process can take several months and requires the assistance of a Costa Rican lawyer.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Costa Rica is relatively low compared to Western standards, but it can vary depending on your location and lifestyle. Here are some average costs:
| Item | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Rent (1 bedroom apartment in city centre) | $500 - $1,000 |
| Utilities (per month) | $100 - $200 |
| Groceries (per month) | $300 - $500 |
| Dining out (per person) | $10 - $20 |
| Gym membership (per month) | $30 - $50 |
Healthcare
Costa Rica has a public healthcare system called the Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS) and a private healthcare system. Expats can choose to use either or both. The cost of healthcare is relatively low, and many doctors and dentists speak English.
Culture and Language
Costa Rica is a culturally diverse country with a rich history. The official language is Spanish, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. The Costa Rican culture is known for its warm and friendly people, known as "Ticos," and their "Pura Vida" lifestyle, which emphasises a relaxed and happy way of living.
Location and Climate
Costa Rica is located in Central America, bordered by Nicaragua to the north and Panama to the south. It has a diverse climate, ranging from tropical rainforests to cooler mountain regions. The coastal areas are popular for their beautiful beaches and water sports.
Getting Around
Costa Rica has a well-developed transportation system, including buses, taxis, and domestic flights. Driving can be challenging, especially in rural areas, but many expats choose to buy a car for convenience.
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 Nov 2026 | €789 | Air Canada | 2 stop | Check |
| 5 Sept 2026 | €852 | Air Canada | 2 stop | Check |
| 22 Oct 2026 | €861 | SWISS | 2 stop | Check |
| 6 Feb 2027 | €883 | SWISS | 2 stop | Check |
Live fares, checked 16 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
Conclusion
Moving to Costa Rica can be a rewarding experience for those looking for a more laid-back lifestyle, a lower cost of living, and a warm and friendly culture. While the process of obtaining visas and residency can be complex, the benefits of living in this beautiful country make it worth the effort.
