Moving to Costa Rica in 2025: What Expats Wish They Knew Before Relocating

Insider Tips on Lifestyle, Costs, Culture & Real Estate

Costa Rica continues to captivate expats from all over the world with its promise of tropical beauty, laid-back lifestyle, and stable political climate. But for those considering relocating in 2025, it’s important to look beyond the Instagram-perfect sunsets and ask: What is it really like to move to Costa Rica? And more importantly: What do seasoned expats wish they knew before making the leap?

This guide provides honest, insider insights on what to expect when relocating to Costa Rica, from daily life and healthcare to cost of living and real estate. Whether you’re a retiree, digital nomad, or a family in search of a slower pace of life, this article will help you make informed decisions.

🇨🇷 Why Move to Costa Rica in 2025?

Costa Rica remains one of the top relocation destinations in the world, thanks to:

• A stable democracy

• Low crime in many regions

• Welcoming locals and expat communities

• High-quality private healthcare

• Beautiful year-round climate

• Access to pristine beaches, volcanoes, and cloud forests

• A commitment to sustainability and eco-tourism

  
  

In 2025, new digital nomad and investor visa options make it even easier to establish legal residency and live full-time in Costa Rica. Remote Work from Costa Rica: Why Digital Nomads Are Flocking Here in 2025

💬 What Expats Wish They Knew Before Moving

Here are the most common reflections from long-term expats - the things they wish someone had told them early on:

1. It’s Not Just a Vacation - It’s Real Life

While it may feel like a permanent vacation at first, everyday life in Costa Rica still involves:

• Grocery shopping

• Banking

• Driving in tropical rainstorms

• Learning Spanish (or at least trying)

🧠 Tip: The magic is in adapting, not importing your old life.

2. Slower Pace Can Be a Blessing - or a Test of Patience

The pace of life - known locally as “Tico Time” - is slower. That includes:

• Waiting for repairs

• Bank queues

• Government paperwork

If you can embrace it, you'll find peace. If not, it may frustrate you.

🧘 “Pura vida” is a mindset, not a marketing slogan.

3. Healthcare is Excellent - If You Know Where to Go

Costa Rica has world-class private hospitals, especially in San José and major cities like Liberia.

• Private healthcare is affordable (doctor visits ~$50–80 USD)

• Many expats carry international or local insurance

• The public system (Caja) is available to residents, but slower

🏥 Tip: Consider private insurance for faster, English-speaking care.

4. Cost of Living Is Relative

Is Costa Rica cheap? Yes and no. Here’s what to expect:

Category	Cost (USD)	Notes
Rent (1–2 BR)	$800 – $2,000+	Depends on location & luxury level
Groceries (monthly)	$300 – $600	Imported goods are pricier
Electricity	$50 – $300	A/C drives bills up fast
Internet	$40 – $80	Fiber available in most towns
Healthcare	$50 – $200	Low compared to U.S.

Many expats live comfortably on $2,000–$4,000/month, but luxury living (ocean view homes, private schools, imported goods) can push that much higher.

5. You’ll Need a Legal Residency Plan

While you can stay up to 90 days on a tourist visa, long-term living requires:

• Pensionado: For retirees with at least $1,000/month income

• Rentista: $60,000 deposited or $2,500/month income

• Investor: $150,000+ investment in property or business

• Digital Nomad Visa: For remote workers earning $3,000+/month

📝 Work with a qualified immigration lawyer - residency laws evolve frequently.

📍 Where Do Most Expats Live in Costa Rica?

Each region has its pros and cons. Here's a quick breakdown of popular expat hubs:

🏖️ Playas del Coco & Guanacaste Coast

• Sunny, dry climate

• Proximity to Liberia International Airport

• Thriving real estate market and digital nomad community

• Growing infrastructure, private schools, and beach clubs

Perfect for beach lovers, families, and real estate investors.

🌄 Arenal & Central Highlands

• Cooler mountain weather

• Lower real estate prices

• Surrounded by nature and volcanoes

Ideal for retirees and nature lovers seeking a peaceful retreat.

🏙️ Escazú / Santa Ana (San José Metro)

• Upscale urban living

• Best hospitals, restaurants, shopping

• Fastest internet, bilingual schools

Popular with professionals and those who need regular travel access.

🌴 Southern Zone (Uvita, Dominical, Ojochal)

• Lush, wild, less developed

• Strong wellness and eco-tourism scene

• Limited infrastructure but stunning scenery

Great for off-grid living and sustainable development.

🏡 What About Real Estate for Expats?

Foreigners can legally own titled property in Costa Rica, with the same rights as citizens. No residency required. Real estate options include:

• Condos near the beach

• Jungle eco-homes

• Gated community villas

• Rental investment properties

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🏘️ Most buyers use a Costa Rican corporation to hold title and simplify estate planning.

Your best bet? Work with a local bilingual real estate agent who understands both the legal and lifestyle aspects of relocating.

📦 Final Checklist: Are You Ready to Move to Costa Rica?

✅ You’ve visited at least once and explored more than just resorts✅ You have a plan for legal residency✅ You’ve budgeted for realistic cost of living✅ You’re open to new rhythms, customs, and maybe even learning Spanish✅ You’ve connected with expats or locals to hear real stories✅ You have a reputable real estate or relocation consultant on your team

🎯 Conclusion: The Move of a Lifetime - If You Do It Right

Relocating to Costa Rica can be a dream - but only if you plan with both heart and head. Take the time to explore, ask questions, understand the legal framework, and prepare to embrace a new way of life.

Whether you're searching for a simpler existence, a smart real estate investment, or a tropical lifestyle for your family, Costa Rica in 2025 remains a top global relocation destination.