Is Costa Rica Safe? An Honest Assessment
Costa Rica is one of the safest countries in Latin America, but it's not crime-free. Understanding the real safety picture helps you make smart choices about where to live and how to protect yourself.
The Big Picture
- No military since 1949 — resources go to education and healthcare
- Stable democracy with peaceful transfers of power
- Violent crime against foreigners is rare
- Petty theft (car break-ins, pickpocketing) is the main concern
- Most expat areas have low crime rates
Safety Tips
- Don't leave valuables visible in your car — ever
- Use a home security system and/or caretaker
- Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas
- Don't flash expensive jewelry or electronics
- Use registered taxis or Uber (not random street taxis)
- Keep copies of important documents (passport, DIMEX) separate from originals