Costa Rica Retirement – Costa Rica has become a popular tourist and retiree destination in the past two decades that it is now a household name in America, Canada and some European countries. It offers warm climate all year round, affordable real estate with foreign nationals having the same property right as locals, Pura Vida lifestyle, have warm-hearted people, and inexpensive but top of the line health care service.
Another great advantage when retiring to Costa Rica is that retirees can easily qualify with the pensionado program wherein the only requirement is that a couple should have $1000 per month pension from Social Security or disability. Qualifying for the program means you can have access to the Costa Rican government run health care program called Caja for a very low monthly fee.
Apart from the above mentioned benefits, in Costa Rica’s expat communities are very active so you can be assured that you can still enjoy a social life and partake in many activities or indulge in your hobbies
with new friends.
All in all, Costa Rica is an ideal destination for anyone who is looking for a tropical paradise he or she can retire to. However there are still some communities that have captured the attention of many and have become more popular than the rest because of certain advantages like lower cost of living.
Below are the top five retiree destinations in Costa Rica:
- San Ramon, Central Valley
This town is located on the western edge of Central Valley region of Costa Rica. Because of its location (it is in the middle of the country) travelling to and from other regions is relatively easy; pristine and beautiful beaches are just about 45 minutes to an hour drive, travelling to Arenal region which is popular for its 33-square mile lake and active volcano is a mere two hour drive, and Juan Santamaria International Airport which is the country’s main international airport is just an hour drive to the east.
Another notable advantage when living in this area is the temperate climate all year round that averages about 72 F or 22 C. At altitudes starting at 2000 feet above sea level, towns in Central Valley are all enjoying mild weather with highs in the mid 80s F and lows at 60s F which results to low electric bill since no heating or air-conditioning system is needed for comfort.
San Ramon also has its own hospital, a university and a bustling city center. There is also a weekly large feria or farmer’s market where one can buy affordable fresh vegetables, fruits, meat, fish and chicken.
Real Estate in San Ramon will also give you huge savings. Furnished homes can be rented for as low as $500 and come with three bedrooms and fascinating views.
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- Dominical, Uvita and Ojochal, Southern Zone
The southern Pacific coast of Costa Rica, near the Panamanian border boasts of three towns: Dominical, Uvita and Ojochal. The landscape in these towns are simply magical, the mountains surrounding the three towns are covered by trees and drop magnificently to the sea, along virtually empty beaches.
The communities in these towns are very welcoming and retirees will have friends they socialize with. There are a several clubs and restaurants in these areas, particularly Ojochal, which offers delicious cuisines from all over the world.
Real estate in these towns is at a good value. You can rent a furnished two bedroom condo with an ocean view for just $900 per month or purchase a three bedroom home for only under $200,000.
- Cahuita, Caribbean Coast
Cahuita is a small fishing village that offers a simple life to those who wish to lead a menial life. It is surrounded by pristine beaches that are best for snorkeling and lush jungle that is home to three-toed sloths, toucans, howler monkeys and other wild life.
Real Estate in this town is very affordable since it is not a popular tourist spot. A three bedroom house in this town is only $149,000 and rental houses are available for long term lease.
- Arenal, Northern Highlands
Arenal region is a rural area surrounding the Arenal volcano which is popular for putting on a lava light show at night (it has been quiet since 2011 though). The Arenal volcano have rainforests surrounding its base making it a great for hiking and other outdoor activities plus it has numerous mineral hot springs naturally heated by the volcanic activity.
The great thing about buying real estate in this region is that any building gracefully melds into the scenery of green pastures and lush forest that rises gradually from the water’s edge. A four bedroom house with a lake view can be bought for under $200,000 and a two bedroom, fully-furnished house can be leased for $850 per month.
- Jaco, Central Pacific Coast
Jaco is one of the most popular tourist destination spots in Costa Rica. In this area you can enjoy beautiful beaches, lots of services and amenities, great weather and inexpensive medical and dental services.
This bustling beach town offers a lively social and night life. You can find a number of hotels and condos in this area and walk into posh shops, luxurious boutiques, incredible restaurants.
When it comes to real estate, you have lots of options in Jaco. If you want to lease a two bedroom condo in a gated community that is close to the beach it will cost you about $900 a month and if you want to purchase a two bedroom condo you can find some at under $150,000.
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Property Ownership
Types Is the Property Really for Sale?
What is the Maritime Zone?
Myths About Squatters
Construction, Architects & Engineers
Purchasing Under a Corporation
Financing
And so much more……..
