Explore Our Blog
Quick links to our main categories — dive into the topics that matter most.
Traditions, holidays, daily life tips, and pura vida living. Food & Cuisine
Traditional dishes, tropical fruits, coffee culture. Healthcare
Caja, private care, insurance, and expat health tips. Legal & Financial
Taxes, banking, corporations, and money tips. Moving & Relocation
Visas, digital nomads, and relocation guides. Real Estate & Property
Buying, selling, building, and market insights. Transportation
Driving guides, rentals, golf carts, and DEKRA. Travel & Tourism
National parks, flights, wildlife, and things to do.
The True Cost of Living in Costa Rica
What does it cost to live in Costa Rica? Many North Americans and Europeans ask this question before they make the move. They dream of a better life in paradise but often wonder if they can afford it. Well, I have great news! According to data on numbeo.com, the average cost of living in Costa Rica (including food, utilities, health care, and transportation) is 32% lower than in the United States. Rent is…..
The Ins and Outs of Paying Taxes in Costa Rica
In 2007, I made the final decision to make the move to Costa Rica full time. One of the many reasons was the high taxes I was paying in the US. Between federal, state, and local income tax, and then property tax on top of that, over 47% of my salary at the time was going to taxes. Now, I am not a tax evader and I believe in paying taxes, but nearly 50% of my salary sounded insane to me. Here in Costa Rica, between my corporate tax, personal income tax and property tax, I’m paying only 17% of my income…..
Moving to Costa Rica and the “Pura Vida” Lifestyle
You might not realize it, but you’ve been dreaming of the “Pura Vida” lifestyle, meaning the pure and simple life. It’s full of sunny days, spectacular beaches, wild and adventurous mountain treks and, of course, the beautiful rainforest. If you’re considering moving to Costa Rica, you’re probably wondering things like what to bring with you, whether you should ship it here or not, and what…..
