Costa Rica Socialite Reveals: The 15 Most Expat-Friendly Places to Live in 2024

The 15 Best Places for Expats to Live in Costa Rica in 2024

Costa Rica has become a prime destination for expats seeking an enriching lifestyle amidst breathtaking scenery and a welcoming community. Boasting a strong economy, excellent healthcare, and a commitment to sustainability, Costa Rica offers a variety of attractive options for those looking to relocate, particularly from the United States.

Are you thinking about making the move to Costa Rica? Want to discover the best places to live? Curious about the cost of living in different cities? Read on to find out more. And while you’re at it, take a look at Costa Rica’s work visas and permits to help you make an informed decision.

This Costa Rica Socialite article highlights the best places for expats to live in Costa Rica, using criteria such as quality of life, cost of living, and environment. It also provides detailed advice on what to consider before relocating.

Our Selection Criteria:

The following factors were considered to rank these top 15 locations:

1. Cost of Living:
   • Affordability is essential. We analyzed transportation costs and daily necessities, excluding rent. Average monthly expenses in Costa Rica are around USD $863 for an individual and USD $3,145 for a family of four, according to NUMBEO.
2. Safety:
   • Safety is crucial. We looked at crime rates, political stability, and overall security, including homicide and road traffic accident rates.
3. Infrastructure:
   • Good infrastructure is key. We assessed utilities, transportation networks, internet connectivity, and the quality of public services.
4. Healthcare:
   • Access to quality healthcare is vital. We evaluated the availability and quality of hospitals, clinics, and English-speaking healthcare professionals.
5. Natural Beauty:
   • Costa Rica is famous for its stunning landscapes. We considered proximity to beaches, mountains, rainforests, and national parks.
6. Expat Community:
   • A vibrant expat community enhances the experience. We looked at the size and diversity of the expat community and the availability of social and networking opportunities.

These factors were combined to create our Expat Appeal Score for each location.

Top 15 Places for Expats in Costa Rica:

1. San Jose: The Cultural Hub
   • Expat Appeal Score: 67
   • Cost of Living: USD $1169
   • Population: 342,000
   • The capital city, San Jose, blends historic charm with modern amenities. Explore landmarks like the National Theater and vibrant neighborhoods such as Barrio Amón and Barrio Escalante. It also serves as a gateway to Costa Rica’s natural wonders.
2. Heredia: The City of Flowers
   • Expat Appeal Score: 64
   • Cost of Living: USD $1040
   • Population: 19,000
   • Just a short drive from San Jose, Heredia is known for its colonial architecture and lush green landscapes. It’s home to the National University and offers a peaceful atmosphere with urban conveniences.
3. Alajuela: The Land of Mangoes
   • Expat Appeal Score: 64
   • Cost of Living: USD $1163
   • Population: 48,300
   • Near the international airport, Alajuela is a welcoming city combining historical sites, coffee plantations, and natural beauty.
4. Cartago: The Ancient Capital
   • Expat Appeal Score: 49
   • Cost of Living: USD $1009
   • Population: 23,000
   • Steeped in history, Cartago offers a glimpse into Costa Rica’s past with its ancient ruins and beautiful parks.
5. Puntarenas: The Gateway to Nicoya
   • Expat Appeal Score: 46
   • Cost of Living: USD $1024
   • Population: 41,500
   • A vibrant coastal city, Puntarenas is known for its stunning beaches and lively boardwalk, making it perfect for beach lovers and explorers of the Nicoya Peninsula.
6. Liberia: The White City
   • Expat Appeal Score: 45
   • Cost of Living: USD $1220
   • Population: 67,000
   • Liberia is a hub for exploring the Guanacaste region’s beaches and national parks, with charming colonial-style buildings and a bustling central plaza.
7. Limon: The Caribbean Pearl
   • Expat Appeal Score: 42
   • Cost of Living: USD $1147
   • Population: 60,700
   • Known for its Afro-Caribbean culture, Limon offers beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and a vibrant market scene.
8. Tamarindo: The Golden Coast
   • Expat Appeal Score: 54
   • Cost of Living: USD $1473
   • Population: 8,000
   • Tamarindo is a hotspot for surfing and nightlife, featuring pristine beaches and a lively atmosphere.
9. Santa Teresa: The Surfer’s Paradise
   • Expat Appeal Score: 38
   • Cost of Living: USD $1114
   • Population: 3,000
   • A laid-back beach town on the Nicoya Peninsula, Santa Teresa is renowned for its world-class surf and bohemian vibe.
10. Manuel Antonio: The Jewel of the Pacific
    • Expat Appeal Score: 37
    • Cost of Living: USD $1111
    • Population: 4,000
    • Famous for its national park and abundant wildlife, Manuel Antonio offers a mix of adventure and relaxation.
11. Jaco: Costa Rica’s Party Central
    • Expat Appeal Score: 35
    • Cost of Living: USD $1245
    • Population: 10,000
    • Jaco is known for its vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches, and excellent surfing opportunities.
12. Dominical: Costa Rica’s Hidden Gem
    • Expat Appeal Score: 33
    • Cost of Living: USD $1032
    • Population: 700
    • A tranquil beach town with excellent surfing, waterfalls, and hiking trails.
13. La Fortuna: The Adventure Capital
    • Expat Appeal Score: 30
    • Cost of Living: USD $1132
    • Population: 15,000
    • Known for the Arenal Volcano and natural hot springs, La Fortuna is a hub for adventure seekers.
14. Puerto Viejo de Talamanca: The Jungle Beach Town
    • Expat Appeal Score: 28
    • Cost of Living: USD $1116
    • Population: 12,000
    • A vibrant town with Afro-Caribbean culture, stunning beaches, and a laid-back atmosphere.
15. Montezuma: The Bohemian Paradise
    • Expat Appeal Score: 26
    • Cost of Living: USD $1035
    • Population: 3,500
    • Known for its artistic vibe, beautiful beaches, and waterfalls, Montezuma offers a unique and alternative lifestyle.

Conclusion

Costa Rica offers a diverse range of living options for expats seeking a new place to call home. Each of the top 15 locations listed here has its own unique set of advantages and experiences.

By considering factors such as cost of living, safety, infrastructure, healthcare, natural beauty, and the presence of an expat community, you can find the perfect place to enjoy your new life in Costa Rica. Remember to prioritize your specific needs and preferences to make the most informed decision.

For more insights and information on living in Costa Rica, exploring visas, and understanding the cost of living, check out our blog at Costa Rica Socialite.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most popular destinations in Costa Rica? Popular expat destinations include Manuel Antonio National Park, Quepos, and Esterillos Oeste, all along the Central Pacific Coast. These areas offer stunning scenery and attractions but also have higher humidity and occasional heat compared to the more temperate Central Valley.

Where is English commonly spoken in Costa Rica? English is widely spoken on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica due to the Jamaican heritage of the local population. The descendants of Jamaican immigrants in this region often speak English with a Caribbean accent.

Are expats generally happy in Costa Rica? Yes, according to a survey by InterNations, 94% of expats living in Costa Rica rate their overall quality of life as excellent or very good, significantly higher than the global average of 81%.

For more information and to get in touch with us for free, unbiased guidance on relocating to Costa Rica, visit Costa Rica Socialite.