Moving to Costa Rica from the US has become an attractive option for retirees, digital nomads, and families looking to change their lifestyle. Costa Rica has been welcoming expats since the 1970’s and the popularity of the country continues to grow. With plenty of expat communities, and a relatively affordable cost of living, Costa Rica is an ideal destination for many. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to ensure a smooth relocation.
Why Move to Costa Rica?
Costa Rica is known for nature. It has stunning beaches, biodiversity, and the “ticos” are very friendly towards foreigners. It offers a “Pura Vida” lifestyle, which translates to “pure life” — a relaxed and enjoyable attitude towards living. Beyond its natural beauty, Costa Rica has a stable democracy, good public and private healthcare systems, and a commitment to nature. Whether you are looking to retire, work remotely, or start fresh, Costa Rica has plenty to offer.
Step 1: Research Residency Options
There are several ways to obtain legal residency in Costa Rica. Some of the most common options for US citizens include:
- Pensionado (Retirement) Residency: Ideal for retirees, this visa requires a minimum pension of $1,000 per month from a recognized source, such as Social Security, private or government pension.
- Rentista Residency: For those without a pension, this visa requires proof of stable income of at least $2,500 per month or a deposit of $60,000 in a Costa Rican bank or letter from your US Bank.
- Inversionista (Investor) Residency: Requires an investment of at least $150,000 in a Costa Rican business or property.
If you’re unsure about which residency category fits your needs then reach out to us and we will be glad to point you in the right direction. Also check out our residency videos on our You Tube Channel.
Step 2: Plan Your Finances
Before moving, it’s essential to have a clear financial plan. The cost of living in Costa Rica is generally lower than in the US, but it can vary significantly depending on the area of the country. Popular expat areas like Guanacaste, and beach towns can be much more expensive than rural areas of Costa Rica.
- Cost of Living: Expect to spend between $2,500 and $3,000 per month, depending on your lifestyle.
- Healthcare: Costa Rica offers both public and private healthcare. Expats can access the public system, but many opt for private healthcare due to shorter wait times. Consider expat health insurance to cover your medical needs. Checkout our video about the Costa Rica Health Care System.
- Housing: Rental prices range from $750 to $3,500 per month, depending on location and property size. If you’re looking to buy, property prices vary widely, with beachfront homes typically costing much more.
Step 3: Shipping Your Belongings
Moving from the US to Costa Rica involves planning how to ship your belongings. Here are some options:
- Air Freight: Quick but expensive. Best for smaller shipments.
- Sea Freight: More cost-effective for large shipments. Shipping containers take about 4-6 weeks to arrive in Costa Rica.
- Customs: Costa Rica has strict customs regulations and all imported items will pay import taxes. Consider hiring a professional international moving company or a Costa Rican Customs Broker to help navigate customs and shipping logistics for you. Ask them for an estimate of the taxes and costs to ship items before you actually do so.
Step 4: Find Housing in Costa Rica
Finding the right home is a key part of your move. Popular places for expats include:
- Central Valley (Escazú, Santa Ana, Atenas, Grecia, San Ramon): Offers cooler weather, proximity to amenities, and well-established expat communities.
- Guanacaste: Known for its beaches and warmer climate. Tamarindo, Playa Flamingo, Playas del Coco, and Playa Hermosa are popular with expats.
- Osa Peninsula: A quieter, nature-filled area of Costa Rica is ideal for those seeking to be in tune with nature.
When renting, you can start with a short-term lease while getting a feel for different areas. There are thousands of Airbnb listings in Costa Rica so plenty of ways to test the waters. When purchasing a home, it’s highly recommended to work with a reputable real estate agent and ensure that have your own Real Estate Attorney working on your behalf. Be sure to download our FREE Real Estate Buying Guide.
Step 5: Navigating Healthcare in Costa Rica
Costa Rica has a highly regarded healthcare system that ranks among the best in Latin America. Expats have access to two options:
- Public Healthcare (Caja): Once you become a resident, you will be required to enroll in the public system. Monthly contributions are based the income you reported when you applied for residency.
- Private Healthcare: Many expats opt for private insurance to access private hospitals and clinics, which offer faster service and more flexibility. Costs for private health insurance vary, so it’s important to compare plans. The top three private hospitals in Costa Rica are Clinica Biblica, Hospital Cima and Hospital Metropolitano.
Step 6: Learn the Local Laws and Customs
Moving to Costa Rica from the US involves adapting to new laws and customs. For instance:
- Driving: You can drive in Costa Rica with a valid US driver’s license for the duration of your tourist visa. After obtaining residency, you’ll need to apply for a Costa Rican license and you can do so by requesting recognition (homologacion) of your US drivers license..
- Taxes: Costa Rica does not tax foreign income, but you will still need to file US taxes each year. Consider working with a tax advisor familiar with both Costa Rican and US tax laws.
- Language: Spanish is the official language, but English is widely spoken in expat communities. Learning some basic Spanish will make your life easier.
Step 7: Embrace the "Pura Vida" Lifestyle
One of the biggest draws to Costa Rica is the relaxed “Pura Vida” lifestyle. If you embrace it you will have a smooth transition into Costa Rica. On the other hand, it can also drive you crazy if you are in a hurry to get things done. Embrace the slower pace of life, the natural beauty, and the strong sense of community.
Conclusion: Ready to Make the Move?
Moving to Costa Rica from the US is a life-changing decision that requires careful planning. By following these steps, you can make the transition a bit smoother. Whether you’re retiring, working remotely, or seeking a new adventure, Costa Rica offers a unique opportunity for a fresh start.
