Q&A on Retiring & Investing in Costa Rica

While we receive hundreds of questions about a variety of topics related to Costa Rica, listed below are some of the most frequently asked questions.

What is the cost of living?

 

One of the greater perks in living in Costa Rica, besides the incredible climate, scenery, and people, is the low cost of living. According to an IMF study, $1,000 USD in purchasing power in the U.S. will get you approximately $2,030 in Costa Rica. So, whatever you may be spending a month currently, you could essentially double your standard of living simply by relocating to paradise. Or, you could potentially cut your budget in half with little to no sacrifice. Through the Boomers in Costa Tour we introduce future retirees and investors to not only the professionals and products to make this possible, but to a life style they can be proud of.

 

Is health care accessible and what is the quality?

 

According to the World Health Organization, Costa Rica actually ranks higher than the United States for its established health care system. It’s not only accessible, but it’s pleasantly affordable. We will introduce you to an array of health care options at much lower costs than you’re accustomed to.

 

Are there many expats Costa Rica?

 

While it is impossible to know exactly how many Ex-pats are here, as most are unregistered perpetual tourists, it is estimated that about 50,000 own real estate. The number is expected to grow exponentially as the 78 million baby boomers that exist in the U.S. alone are only beginning to retire and look at retirement options.

 

What type of people are moving to/investing in Costa Rica?

 

We find the vast majority fit into one of the following 4 categories:

 

-Retirees looking to relocate.

-Part-time residents looking for a vacation home

-Baby Boomers who are retiring early or want to drop out of the ‘rat race, ‘ and are searching for an alternative career or business.

-Investors looking for a better return on their current investments.

 

What has been the trend in the Costa Rican real estate market?

 

Costa Rica continues to see real estate price appreciation in double digits. In a July, 2007 study by “Reveal Real Estate” an organization that tracks international real estate, Costa Rica remains the most sought-after real estate destination in Central America. While it is a mature market, Reveal also found that this country offers a good balance between “risk and reward” but still offers significant capital appreciation over other investments.

 

Strong opportunities exist within certain regions, such as the Central Valley, particularly where retirees are living, rather than at the beach or near popular tourist areas. While the country lacks an MLS-type system to compare prices, construction permits were up 64% in 2006 and continue to climb in the low double digits in 2007, signaling a continuing robust market.

 

 

Is Costa Rica safe?

 

Costa Rica is extremely safe for expats. Obviously urban areas like San Jose tend to have more crime, but the majority is in the form of petty theft. Our tour introduces you to areas that are known for their safety. Peace is something the Costa Ricans cherish and want to preserve T here is no military. The government is also extremely stable and even more democratic than the U.S.

Learn more about Costa Rica by taking our highly recommended tour: Boomers Tours

Comments

[Costa Rica real estate]

The answer provided by the post is good as most people have this common question in there mind while moving to Costa Rica.

[Houston real estate]

What you can spend in a month at present, you can nearly double your standard of living by simply moving to paradise. Or, you could potentially reduce your budget in half with little or no sacrifice.

[San Antonio real estate]

Although we do not get constant questions about biological communities, we get a lot more about what it means to live in Costa Rica Here are some of the key questions and answers you should consider carrying out basic research on the retirement or invest in Costa Rica.

[Houston real estate]

Mine is still on typepad but I have the whole thing exported to wordpress. Moving the photos is the challenge. The one thing I did right was to run it off my own domain name. I won't have to leave a message on it when it is moved and I can shut down my typepad account. Blogs are fairly easy

[Giovanna Barrantes]

Hello
My name is Giovanna Barrantes. I'm an attorney in San Jose Costa Rica.
Costa Rica offers many reasons why Americans will retire to Costa Rica

Same property rights as Costa Ricans
Low property taxes.
Can become resident with retired plan
Can buy medical insurance either local/private
Can own a business

[Property Hanoi]

This is a great article; it answers a lot of the common questions in the minds of people planning to retire in Costa Rica. I'd like to just mention that, according to many travelers, Costa Rica is one of the safest destinations in Central America,so safety shouldn't be a worry.

[Costa Rica Real Estate]

You have to move to Costa Rica, for two reasons: weather and lifestyle. You can have them both in the Central Valley.

[joanna dean]

Are your tours appropriate for people who want to rent for a year or so before deciding to buy? Will most condos and apts. take small dogs? If coming as a single, could you arrange for another single female for room share during the tour? Thanks.....Joanna

[Kalia Living]

Relocating to Costa Rica for retirement is definitely a smart way to save on health care costs for individuals taking prescription medications, but the relaxed outlook on life and healthy diet also helps foreign Costa Rica retirees extend quality livable years.