Top 9 Reasons Why Moving to Costa Rica is a Great Idea
Are you Moving to Costa Rica this upcoming Year? If so, let us help. This country is one of the most beautiful landscapes in Central America. Many people are drawn to this country to explore its stunning beaches and experience its flora and fauna.
From working in Costa Rica to retiring there, it is an ultimate relocation destination. We'd love to help you on your fantastic journey if you want to move there next year. This country is now one of the most famous places to visit and move to.
It is said that 1,000 people from various large continents move to Costa Rica yearly. Due to our strong relationships with professionals in the field, we gained plenty of insider knowledge about relocation. If you're considering making Costa Rica your permanent home, this blog post will provide you with the top ten reasons.
Learn about Costa Rica
Costa Rica has a land area of 51,100 km, and the Pacific and the Caribbean surround it. It became independent in 1848 after being part of the independent Mexican Empire. Since the Spanish colonization of the country in the 16th century, its national language has been Spanish.
Costa Rica has 600 beaches, 79 islands, and 100 volcanos. It is also admired for its stable government and economy. According to the Constitution of 1949, Costa Rica has a single chamber and a judicial system. This country upholds fairness above everything and has emerged as an independent electoral body. Costa Rica has become a top relocation destination because of its affordable living.
The country boasts a quality healthcare system known for its rich biodiversity. Costa Ricans are committed to sustainability and have created an eco-friendly environment. Also, the weather in this country is pleasant year-round. You can explore a vibrant and culturally rich expat community, offering ample opportunities for adventure.
Here is a comprehensive with essential statistics that provides an Overview of Moving to Costa Rica:
- Total Land Area: 51,100 km
- Yearly Revenue: 2131981.77 CRC Million
- Population: 5.181 million
- Yearly Wages: $820
- Monthly Wages: $1,000 per month
- Average Home Prices: $180,000
- Monthly Rent: $219 and $582
- Tourist Attractions: Fortuna Waterfall, Parque Nacional Cahuita, Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological, Tortuguero, Parque Nacional Corcovado,La Paz Waterfall Gardens Nature Park, Parque Nacional Manuel
Top 9 Reasons for Moving to Costa Rica
Still, you must decide whether to relocate to this country. Then we can help you. Below, we have explained ten reasons to move to this magical place.
1. Beautiful Natural Landscapes
Costa Rica has many beautiful natural sights, such as misty cloud forests, raging volcanoes, and clean beaches. These serene places are ready for you to discover them. They attract millions of nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers every year.
This country has one of the best locations with diverse cloud forests. That way, you can see many different nature areas in one place, whether you want to walk on different suspended bridges through the thick forest canopy.
You can also go on thrilling sky zip-line rides or see rare animals like the beautiful quetzal, which live in the wild. Moving to Costa Rica is a fantastic journey that will allow you to see the nation's wonders.
6 Must-Visit Places to Explore in Costa Rica
Below, we have listed some of the most exciting places to explore in Costa Rica:
- Tortuguero: This is a must-visit Wildlife Wonder in a Limón Province village. Visitors and residents alike can find great spots to hang out here.
- Coco Beach: Also called Las del Coco, this busy place has many well-known beaches and nightlife. It's an excellent spot for both tourists and locals to hang out.
- Puerto Viejo: There is no better place to swim and rest than this. This destination uniquely blends ecotourism, rich culture, and beautiful climate.
- Drake Bay: One of the Most Biodiverse places and a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and hikers. It is a hidden gem in the heart of southwest Costa Rica. It is a natural beauty with many things to do, and it amazes and charms tourists.
- Rincon de la Vieja: These are the best places to be if you want to experience country-style living. On its more than 34,000-acre surface, there are 32 rivers and streams, two volcanoes, and a fantastic range of plantations and animals.
- San Jose: The largest city and cultural capital. Find world-class museums, parks, hotels, shows, and old buildings, among other things.
2. Pleasant Climate
Another great thing that attracts people to Costa Rica rather than its stunning beaches is its tropical weather. When you relocate to this country, you can experience two distinct seasons in one place. This country's weather is usually dry and rainy all year, with the rainiest months from May to November.
However, the heavy rain occurs somewhere around September and October. The dry season occurs from April to December. Costa Rica's average recorded temperature is 70 to 81 degrees Fahrenheit. This means that when you move to Costa Rica, you will enjoy warm weather that will make your life comfortable.
3. Friendly and Welcoming Culture
Costa Rica is most admired for its warm and friendly environment. The people in this country believe in living a Pura Vida life. This mantra is accepted by most of the communities in the place, which means living a pure life without worries. Costa Ricans believe in living at a slower pace without stress and enjoying life to the fullest. They find happiness and carefreeness amid their natural surroundings.
These individuals are known for their warm and inviting nature, making them a source of national pride. They contribute to the government's numerous accomplishments. This might be because of the culture's stress on loving and accepting life as it is. People in Costa Rica are happy and ready to help you become part of their culture if you move there.
4. Affordable Cost of Living
Another significant factor that attracts many people is the affordable living in Costa Rica. The prices of essential items like rent, restaurants, and groceries are significantly more affordable for consumers.
This country has become a popular choice among Americans, Canadians, and Europeans for living, retiring, traveling, and investing. The monthly budget to live in this country typically falls between $1,400 and $1,700. When you move to Costa Rica from the US, you'll find that the cost of living is generally lower.
Below, we have provided you with the overall cost of different necessities in the Rich Coast of the country:
- Milk (1/2 Gallon): $6
- Bread: $5
- Hamburger: $8
- Large Pizza: $9
- Fried Chicken (2Pc): $4
- Doctor Appointment: $25-$90
- Dentist Visit: $395 to $550
- Monthly Rent: Starting from $501.33
- Mortgage Rates: Starting from $1,400
- Fuel Prices: $4.12
- Average Energy Bills: $50 per month
5. Top Destination for Retirement
This country is consistently recognized as one of the top destinations for retirement. According to a recent survey conducted by International Living, Costa Rica has been identified as the top retirement destination for 2024. Retirement is a thrilling phase for countless individuals.
Now is an excellent time to enjoy the independence of doing what you prefer, such as traveling regularly. Retired couples can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle with a monthly budget of $2,500 to $3,000.
6. Healthcare in Costa Rica
Costa Rica is renowned for its exceptional healthcare providers and facilities, ensuring a high standard of care. According to sources, this country offers top-notch healthcare in Latin America for those living internationally. In addition, newcomers to this country can enjoy excellent benefits from the government's healthcare system.
Immigrant residents can access both the universal and private healthcare systems, making it easier for them to receive medical care. In addition, healthcare costs in this specific country are much lower than in the United States. Depending on the treatment, you can save significantly on your health insurance.
7. Excellent Education Opportunities
Another tremendous factor that attracts individuals is Costa Rica's exceptional education system. This country is ranked top in Central America and has achieved an impressive global ranking of 52nd.
There are numerous remarkable public and private educational institutes in each country. Moreover, these schools offer flexible and cost-effective fee structures. It means anyone can get the best education opportunities without burdening their budget.
8. Thriving Diverse Community
Costa Rica is known for its incredible biodiversity and is considered one of the most diverse places in the US. The country is home to many Indigenous people from various continents worldwide. Most of Costa Rica's population has European roots, as the country was under Spanish colonial rule for an extended period.
Most of Costa Rica comprises white or mestizo individuals, accounting for 83.6%. Mulattoes make up 6.7% of the population, while Native Americans account for 2.4%.The remaining 1.1 population is Black and Afro-Caribbeans. This place is known to be the most ethnically homogeneous country in the USA. Their diverse and welcoming culture makes it easier for newcomers to relocate and blend into their environment.
9. Rich Cultural Heritage and Activities
Nestled in Central America, this country treasures a rich collection of cultures and heritage. Many of its spots are listed in the UNESCO Heritage List as accurately preserved and managed. You can visit many natural sites, temples, castles, and landscapes that are architectural evidence of the past culture that listed Costa Rica from all over the world.
Costa Ricans pride themselves in their vibrant oral traditions, captivating performing arts, lively festivals, and rituals to this day. Move to Costa Rica today to explore their well-preserved restoration routes, impressive craft skills, and diverse traditional expressions.
Bonus Tips: Efficient Strategies to Make Moving to Costa Rica Seamless
Moving to a long-distance country like Costa Rica requires many skills and expertise to prepare, pack, and transport. Below, we have provided you with the Costa Rica expat guide that you need to make your move smooth and successful:
1. Pick the Right Mover
No matter how far or close you are moving, you will need an excellent mover to succeed. This is why hiring the right mover is the first step to making your move to Costa Rica stress-free. Relocation needs to be planned and executed with proper care. When you hire a professional, they are already trained and well-equipped.
They can adequately perform your moves without any hassle. A skilled mover can do everything, including packing, unloading, loading, and transporting. All you have to do is select a trustworthy moving company, and they will confirm the date of your relocation on time.
2. Pre-Book All Your Services
Another essential step is starting early and pre-booking all your moving services. Book all your services, from the movers to labor options, transportation, and storage facilities. Waiting until the last minute raises many complications, such as weather, additional costs, and mover availability. Sometimes, your date does not match the schedule of moving companies when asked to book them at the last minute.
Moreover, it needs to give you more time to research and evaluate, leaving you with an immature mover. When you do proper research and arrange dates before time, the moving companies do their best to arrange suitable facilities for you. Also, you can take advantage of better rates, discounts, and deals.
3. Make a Moving Checklist
Relocating involves various tasks, and keeping track of them can be challenging. This is where checklists can come in handy. It is essential to take the time to list all the tasks involved in your relocation. Your checklist will help you manage, track, and keep up with all your activities.
4. Pack Smartly
Packing is the key to the success of all moves. Properly packing all your belongings minimizes the risk of property damage. Use efficient packing techniques and supplies to increase your items' safety.
Consider choosing the proper safety and packing supplies. When selecting the perfect supplies, select the items' size, shape, weight, and fragility. This will ensure that your belongings are transported securely and efficiently. Smart packing is the holy grail for saving and preventing financial and emotional harm.
6. Plan A Deculturing Session
Moving to another country is challenging, particularly when transporting your household belongings. This is why it is essential to do so through decluttering sessions in your house. Put your things into three categories: shipping, storing, and selling. Taking all your stuff to a new country might cost you a lot. This is why you take a more practical approach by selling, donating, or even putting them in a storage facility. This approach can make your relocation more cost-efficient and space-flexible.
7. Prepare for Movers
The final but most crucial step is to prepare for your mover. There are a few things you can do before they show up. The most preferred list is packing essentials, making a list of your belongings, and taking pre-move pictures. If any of your items get stolen or damaged, you can claim them.
5 Best places to live in Costa Rica
Below, we have provided you with the list of five best places to relocate in Costa Rica:
Escazu
There is no better place to go if you want to see the exciting nightlife of Costa Rica's capital city without breaking the bank. Consider moving to the nearest suburb available, Escazu. It is located in the central valley of this beautiful country. This city offers an affluent lifestyle to newcomers with the serenity of various natural sites. Explore trendy bars, restaurants, state-of-the-art amenities, and safe neighborhoods. The suburb is famous for its consistently pleasant, spring-like climate throughout the year, making your stay.
Atenas
It is a small town that provides the most authentic Costa Rican experience. You can find traditional Rican food, coffee, and dining experiences here. It is almost a mile away from the capital and allows you to get to the beaches of the Pacific Coast quickly. People looking for a quiet place to retire often choose this city. Assume you are interested in a laid-back rural lifestyle close to the airport and an extensive metropolis's conveniences. If so, consider making Athens your new home.
Tamarindo
This town boasts one of the most stunning beaches in the world, situated on the picturesque Pacific coast. If you are an outdoor enthusiast and beach lover, this is where you want to be. Explore their dynamic surfing spots and wildlife sanctuaries, such as leatherback turtles at the nearby Las Balas National Marine Park. It also offers the best bars, restaurants, and a vibrant nightlife.
Heredia
This town is in the country's north and offers many outdoor activities. Moreover, it features one of the best education facilities at the National University. Discover other stunning architecture, lush vegetation, and easy access to the best amenities.
Dominical
This city is the favorite spot for visitors, flanked by the Barú River. If you plan to move there, it has many activities, including surfing, snorkeling, diving, sunbathing, and horseback riding. The beaches in Dominica provide a relaxed and laid-back experience all year. This town features the most visited park in Costa Rica, Manuel Antonio. Visitors flanked by the Barú River.
Conclusion
Moving to Costa Rica might be one of the best decisions you will make this year. This country has become one of the leading choices for relocation because of its political stability and commitment to stability. The government of this place is committed to providing its residents with a cost-effective, healthier, and green lifestyle. So Werther, if you are moving to Costa Rica with family or alone, let us guide you properly.
Billy.com is your one-stop destination to find leading moving experts in your area. Our platform provides instant quotes you can compare to make an informed decision. In this blog, we have updated you on the top 10 reasons why moving to Costa Rica is a great idea. Make your moves seamless and embrace the “Pura Vida” lifestyle. Visit our website to learn more about how to reduce the cost of moving locally, long-distance, and internationally.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Below, we have provided you with detailed answers to all the frequently asked questions about moving to Costa Rica:
Q1. Is Costa Rica friendly to foreigners?
Ans: The people of Costa Rica, also known as Ticos and Ticas, are amiable and helpful.
Q2. Can a U.S. citizen live in Costa Rica without a Visa?
Ans: A US citizen can stay up to 90 days in Costa Rica without any visa.
Q3. What language do Costa Ricans speak?
Ans: The official language that is spoken in Costa Rica is Spanish.
Q4. What is the quality of living in Costa Rica?
Ans: Costa Rica helps its individuals earn an average income. When some move to this country, they can benefit from thriving job opportunities, quality health care, and a safe environment.
Q5. Is it expensive to move to Costa Rica?
Ans: Costa Rica is one of Central America's most adorable places to move to, as the average living cost starts at $1,600.