Living in Costa Rica

Are you thinking about moving to Costa Rica? Costa Rica is an incredibly popular destination, but before you pack your bags you should get to know the island a little. Costa Rica is actually officially regarded as the 'Republic of Costa Rica', and is the first country in all of Central America which constitutionally abolished their military. Costa Rica truly has been blessed when it comes to flora and fauna, with the greatest selection of plant and animal species in the entire world. Costa Rica's climate is beautiful and tropical, with stunning beaches and gorgeous rainforests which attract plenty of attention from people who are looking for someplace unique to retire.

Costa Rica may be regarded as a great place to relax, but there is much more to this island than simply a warm and sunny vacation destination. Life in Costa Rica is not always easy, especially for those who actually live there. Costa Rica is often called the most expensive of all countries located in Central America, which is a surprise considering it is also the second smallest of all countries within the region. The economy in Costa Rica may be stable, but the average salary is considerably low. Although it may be possible to survive with a budget of around $1000 per month, this typically means that a couple will rent a small house, use the bus system for transportation and will avoid making any indulging purchases. Local goods in Costa Rica tend to be inexpensive, but you should prepare to spend quite a bit on imported goods which tend to cost significantly more.

Another thing that many people do not realize is that purchasing a car on the island of Costa Rica is actually considered to be a luxury. In Costa Rica, the parts that cars need are typically expensive and difficult to find. Luckily however, labor costs for mechanics tend to be cheaper than what you would find in the United States or elsewhere. Importing a car is an option, but not actually a good one because the fees involved are enormous.

The cost for merchandise and transportation may be a might expensive in Costa Rica, but the community and its friendly people more than make up for the costs involved with living here. Labor is typically inexpensive in Costa Rica on a general level, so it becomes much more affordable to hire a gardener or a maid.

Do not let yourself be discouraged by the bad reviews you read about the country, because a lower cost of living is not a good enough reason to choose another country over Costa Rica. The costs may be higher in Costa Rica, but the quality of life is unrivaled. If you are looking for an amazing country to settle down in, with a stunning climate, beautiful beaches and unique rainforests, then you will never find a country quite as amazing as Costa Rica. The higher cost of living is definitely worth it, if you consider the amazing benefits of retiring in a community like that which Costa Rica offers.