It all started with a daydream — a faint vision of turquoise waters, golden sunsets, and a life free from the constant grind of the 9-to-5 hamster wheel.
But unlike most daydreams, this one didn’t fade away when I snapped back to reality.
Instead, it planted itself firmly in my mind until one day, I made the decision: I’m moving to Costa Rica.
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to trade in your old life for a tropical paradise, or if you’re simply curious about the logistics, the challenges, and the unexpected joys of relocating to a new country, then buckle up — because I’m about to share exactly how I moved to Costa Rica and why I have zero plans of ever going back.
The Spark: Why Costa Rica?
Costa Rica isn’t just a vacation spot — it’s a lifestyle. Known for its “Pura Vida” philosophy (literally translated to “pure life”), Costa Rica is more than just beaches and rainforests. It’s about slowing down, savoring the moment, and prioritizing happiness.
A Few Key Reasons I Chose Costa Rica:
- The Climate: Warm weather year-round.
- Cost of Living: Affordable (though not dirt cheap).
- Healthcare: World-class medical facilities at a fraction of U.S. prices.
- Safety: One of the safest countries in Central America.
- Community: A vibrant expat and local community.
But let’s be honest — the beaches were a big selling point.
Planning the Move
Making the decision to move was the easy part; the real work started with the planning. If you’re serious about moving to Costa Rica, here are the major steps I tackled:
1. Research, Research, Research
I dove deep into blogs, forums, YouTube channels, and books about expat life in Costa Rica. I wanted to know everything — from the best cities for expats to how much I could expect to pay for rent.
2. Visit First
Before packing up my life, I visited Costa Rica for a month. I traveled to popular spots like Tamarindo, Nosara, and Manuel Antonio, but also checked out lesser-known towns.
3. Visa & Residency
Costa Rica has several visa options. I chose the Rentista Visa, which requires proof of a stable income.
4. Sell, Donate, Pack
I sold most of my belongings, donated what I couldn’t sell, and packed only the essentials. A minimalist mindset is key when moving abroad.
5. Financial Preparation
I ensured I had a financial cushion and set up international banking accounts.
If you’re planning your own move, start early. Bureaucracy can be slow, and it’s always better to overprepare.
Settling In: The First Few Months
The first few months were a mix of pure bliss and logistical headaches.
Finding a Place to Live
I started with a short-term rental while I explored long-term housing options. There are plenty of options — beachfront condos, mountain cabins, and charming little houses in the countryside.
Adjusting to the Pace of Life
Life in Costa Rica moves slower, and at first, this drove me crazy. But slowly, I learned to embrace the Pura Vida mindset. Things get done… eventually.
Building a Community
Making friends as an expat can be intimidating, but I found community groups on Facebook, attended local events, and even joined a yoga class by the beach.
The Highs: Why I’m Staying Forever
1. The Nature is Unreal
Every morning, I wake up to the sound of howler monkeys and birds singing. The beaches are postcard-perfect, and the sunsets? They’ll ruin you for life.
2. The Food is Fresh and Delicious
From tropical fruits to fresh-caught fish, every meal feels like a treat.
3. Lower Stress Levels
Goodbye traffic jams and soul-crushing deadlines. Hello, hammock naps and afternoon swims.
4. Meaningful Connections
Whether it’s with locals or fellow expats, relationships here feel genuine.
The Lows: It’s Not All Paradise
No place is perfect, and Costa Rica is no exception.
- Bureaucracy: Paperwork can be a nightmare.
- Language Barrier: While many people speak English, learning Spanish is essential.
- Infrastructure Issues: Power outages and spotty internet happen more often than I’d like.
But even with these downsides, the pros far outweigh the cons.
What You Should Know Before Moving
- Learn Basic Spanish: It’ll make your life so much easier.
- Don’t Expect U.S.-Style Efficiency: Things take time — be patient.
- Healthcare is Excellent: Especially private clinics.
- Budget Wisely: Some areas can be expensive.
- Visit First: Spend at least a month in Costa Rica before making the leap.
Final Thoughts: Why I’m Never Going Back
I traded my cubicle for the ocean, my car for long walks on the beach, and my stress for serenity. Life in Costa Rica isn’t perfect, but it’s perfect for me.
The slower pace, the friendly people, and the incredible natural beauty have made me fall in love with this country in a way I never expected.
If you’re considering making the move, all I can say is: Do it. Life is short, and Costa Rica might just be the paradise you’ve been searching for.