Costa Rica
- “Rich Coast”
Pronounced KOH-stah REE-kah
Where the jungle meets the ocean
Costa Rica isn’t just a place you move to, it’s a place that moves you. Life here has its own rhythm, set by the waves, the rain, the sunshine, and the people who live by pura vida.
This is a country where nature sets the pace. One day you’re walking through a cloud forest, the next you’re snorkeling over coral reefs or riding waves on a surfboard. It’s a place where the phrase pura vida isn’t a slogan, it’s the way people live: slower, warmer, more connected.
That doesn’t mean everything is easy. Things here take time. Deliveries run late, appointments shift, projects move at their own pace. But Costa Rica teaches you patience — and in that slowing down, you find more room to breathe, to live, to simply be.
For expats, families, and digital nomads, Costa Rica blends natural beauty with the essentials of modern life. It has a strong expat community, modern healthcare, international schools, and internet fast enough to run your business from a beach town café. More than all that, it offers a lifestyle that reconnects you with what matters: health, family, community, and time that finally feels like it belongs to you again.
At ZIVO, we believe where you live shapes who you are. Costa Rica is proof of that a place where patience, peace, and possibility all come together.
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Estimated Population
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Learn more about living in Costa Rica
Here's a quick look at what life in Costa Rica feels like, from climate and connectivity to community size and access.
Regional Weather
Guanacaste
Central Pacific
Southern Zone
Central Valley
Caribbean Coast
Most visitors can enter Costa Rica visa-free for up to 90 days, making it simple for tourists and short-term stays. For those planning a longer move, programs such as the Digital Nomad Visa, Pensionado Visa for retirees, and Rentista Visa for investors provide clear paths to legal residency.
Costa Rica has one of the strongest healthcare systems in Latin America. Residents can join the public system (Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social), which offers broad coverage at low cost, while private clinics and hospitals provide fast, highquality care that many expats find affordable compared to their home countries.
Costa Rica is built around the “Pura Vida” lifestyle, a phrase meaning “pure life” that reflects its relaxed pace and friendly culture. From surfing world-class waves to hiking volcanoes and exploring biodiversity, daily life is deeply connected to nature. Communities are welcoming, and many expats find it easy to settle into local rhythms.
The cost of living in Costa Rica is generally lower than in the U.S. or Europe, though it varies by region. Surf towns and beach hotspots on the Pacific can be pricier, while the Central Valley and smaller rural communities offer a more affordable lifestyle without sacrificing amenities.
Known as the “Switzerland of Central America”, Costa Rica is recognized for its political stability and commitment to peace. The country abolished its army in 1949 and has since invested heavily in education, healthcare, and environmental protection, making it one of the safest and most stable nations in the region.
Regions Of Costa Rica
Dry, sunny, and famous for wide beaches, surf towns, and a lively expat community. Known for year-round warmth and laid-back living.
A Blue Zone known for wellness, longevity, and slow living. Jungle-backed beaches, yoga culture, and mindful communities define the area.
A more accessible region with quick routes to San José. Popular for convenience, surfing, and proximity to national parks.
Lush, dramatic, biodiverse, and calmer in pace — this region blends jungle living with ocean access and strong community vibes.
Mild climate, mountain views, strong infrastructure, and comfortable suburban living. Ideal for families, digital nomads, or those needing medical access.
Reggae-infused culture, Afro-Caribbean influences, vibrant nature, and a more alternative, creative energy.
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