YOUR GUIDE TO COSTA RICAN PURA VIDA

Imagine a life where you wake up to the sound of waves crashing on a pristine beach, where lush rainforests beckon for adventure, and where every day feels like a vacation. Welcome to Costa Rica, a tropical haven that has captured the hearts of expatriates from around the world. In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the ins and outs of living in Costa Rica, from visa requirements, to the cost of living and the healthcare systems.

Cost of Living: Living Well for Less

Costa Rica delivers a cost of living that expats truly appreciate. It is less expensive in many ways than North America and Europe. You can fully embrace the pura vida lifestyle without breaking your budget. Now, let’s delve into what awaits you in this exceptional corner of the world.

Housing: If you dream of owning a piece of paradise in the beach areas, a home can be yours for around $300,000 to $500,000. If you’re aiming for a spacious 3-bedroom ocean view home, prices typically range from $600,000 to $800,000+, with price based on luxury amenities and location. Costa Rica’s cost of living offers a high quality of life with a relatively affordable price tag. It’s a place where you can enjoy the best of both worlds – the comforts of home and the excitement of a new beginning.

Food and Dining: 

Grocery costs in Costa Rica are reasonable. You will find a variety of fresh produce and local delicacies to savor, whether it be purchased from the weekly farmer’s markets or from the local grocer. Dining out can be affordable, with local restaurants offering delicious meals that won’t break the bank. Embrace the local cuisine, including the famed gallo pinto and ceviche, for a true taste of Costa Rica. Foodie Alert - There is an excellent assortment of restuarants offering upscale menus with delectable international dining.

Entertainment: 

Costa Rica’s natural beauty and vibrant communities offer endless entertainment options. From morning walks on unspoiled beaches to cultural events, there’s always something happening. Join yoga classes, play pickleball or tennis, explore local art galleries, indulge in the laid-back atmosphere of beachside bars, or take in some musical entertainment on weekends at many of the restaurants. The options are as diverse as the landscape itself.

Education: 

A variety of internationally accredited schools are located in Uvita and Ojochal, offering your little ones a safe envrionment in which to learn and thrive here in paradise. Each school offers a unique learning experience and an assortment of extracurricular activites including sports, theatre, dance, music, etc.

In Uvita; Centro Educativo (formerly Escuela Verde), Uvita Christian Academy, and coming soon Journey.

In Ojochal; Life Project, Jungle Academy, Steps in Life

Transportation: 

While public transportation can be challenging in Costa Ballena, owning a vehicle provides the freedom to explore this beautiful region. With stunning coastal drives and mountain vistas, you’ll find every journey an adventure. Vehicle ownership and fuel costs are relatively high. At some point, whether you live here full or part time, we recommend the purchase of a 4x4 SUV vehicle, either used from a variety of local vendors OR new from dealerships like; Toyota, Mitsubishi, Ford, Dodge, Suzuki, etc

Public Healthcare for Residents: 

The universal healthcare system, CAJA, is accessible to all residents. For an expat couple, CAJA’s low monthly fees (typically average $100/month) provides a range of medical coverage including; doctor’s visits, hospitalization, surgeries, prescription medications, even basic eye and dental care. This provides peace of mind and ensures you have quality healthcare within reach. It’s a reassuring safety net, providing peace of mind as you enjoy your life in Costa Rica. Costa Rica stands as a shining example when it comes to prioritizing the health and well-being of its residents. The nation’s universal healthcare system is revered for its quality and efficiency, with regularly scheduled visits for wellness checks.

Private Healthcare

Costa Rica also offers a robust private healthcare sector, which is particularly appealing to folks who choose not to become residents of Costa Rica, as well as those who may be residents but prefer more immediate personalized medical attention. Private hospitals, such as CIMA, Clínica Bíblica, and La Católica, and Las Americas, are known for their high-quality care and modern facilities.  Medical costs in the private sector are considerably lower than those in abroad (US, Canada, Europe), making elective procedures, specialized treatments, and consultations with specialists more accessible. Many expats opt for a blend of public and private healthcare, ensuring they receive top-notch care when needed while benefiting from the cost-effective public system for routine medical needs.

Prescriptions and Insurance

For residents, the CAJA public health system includes all prescription medications. For those without residency, most medications are cost effective and available without prescription. Many international insurance providers offer policies tailored to expats in Costa Rica, covering medical expenses, including medications and hospital stays. Costa Rica also offers a competitive range of health insurance options, more details available upon request.

Residency Requirements: Opening the Door to Paradise

Some folks plan for a full-time permanent move to retire in Costa Rica. Others split their time between multiple locations, perhaps maintaining two or more homes, one here in Costa Rica and the other in their country of origin.  If you are planning to live full-time in Costa Rica, you need to consider which path to Costa Rican residency is best for you.  The good news is that Costa Rica offers several options. Let’s explore the most common pathways:

Pensionado Resident: This visa is ideal for retirees with a steady pension or retirement fund income of at least $1,000 per month per household. It opens the door to the pura vida lifestyle without the need for significant investment such as a home purchase.

Inversionista Resident (For Investors): For those who prefer to invest in a permanent home in Costa Rica, the Inversionista Visa is a compelling option. It requires a minimum investment of $150,000 in assets within the country. This can include purchasing a house, vehicle, or other valuable assets. 

Digital Nomad: For those who work for international companies with the ability to live and work in Costa Rica. More details upon request.

Your Costa Rican Life Awaits: Embrace the Pura Vida

There are a number of possibilities awaiting expats considering living in Costa Rica. It’s not just the practical advantages that make Costa Rica special; it’s the lifestyle upgrade, the sense of adventure, and the joy of forming meaningful connections in this welcoming community. Whether you seek further information or simply wish to connect with like-minded individuals who have embarked on this exhilarating journey, we are here to assist. Refer this guide to friends and family who may share your dreams of Costa Rica – for in this tropical paradise, every day is an opportunity to live life to the fullest. Costa Rica is more than a destination; it’s an invitation to embrace a new way of living, where adventure, beauty, and endless possibilities await. Your life’s greatest adventure begins here!