Healthcare in Costa Rica: Better and Cheaper Than You Think
Costa Rica has one of the best healthcare systems in Latin America. Life expectancy is 80+ years — higher than the US. You have two excellent options: universal public (CCSS) and affordable private care.
80+
Life Expectancy (Years)
50-70%
Less Than US Prices
$45/mo
Minimum CCSS Cost
CCSS (Caja) — Universal Public Healthcare
All legal residents can enroll in La Caja. It covers doctor visits, surgery, hospital stays, emergency care, prescriptions, maternity, mental health, and basic dental. Monthly cost is based on declared income — as low as $45/month for families.
- ✅ No pre-existing condition exclusions
- ✅ Covers entire family
- ✅ Prescriptions often free
- ❌ Long wait times for specialists
- ❌ Crowded facilities
- ❌ Limited English
Private Healthcare
World-class private hospitals in the San José metro area:
| Service | Costa Rica | United States |
|---|---|---|
| Doctor visit | $40-100 | $150-300 |
| MRI | $300-600 | $1,000-3,000 |
| Hip replacement | $12,000-18,000 | $40,000-60,000 |
| Dental crown | $300-500 | $1,000-1,500 |
| LASIK (both eyes) | $1,500-2,500 | $4,000-6,000 |
Many expats use a combination: CCSS for major/chronic issues, private for convenience and speed.