Why Costa Rica Is the #1 Retirement Destination
Costa Rica consistently ranks among the world's top retirement destinations. Stable democracy since 1949, excellent healthcare, beautiful nature, and a cost of living that lets your retirement savings go further.
$1,000
Min. Monthly Pension for Visa
$0
Tax on Foreign Pension
0.25%
Annual Property Tax
The Pensionado (Retiree) Visa
With $1,000/month in qualifying pension income, you can apply for Costa Rica's retiree visa. Benefits include CCSS healthcare, duty-free imports, and a path to permanent residency after 3 years.
Best Places to Retire
- Atenas — "Best climate in the world," affordable, active retiree community
- Grecia — Friendly small town, great weather, growing expat community
- Escazú — Urban convenience, hospitals, international amenities
- Lake Arenal — Stunning volcano views, cool climate, peaceful
- Tamarindo — Beach lifestyle, social scene, good infrastructure
- Manuel Antonio — Nature paradise, monkeys and sloths, restaurants
Your Pension Goes Further
A couple can live comfortably on $2,000-3,000/month in Costa Rica. Your Social Security or pension is tax-free under CR's territorial tax system. Property tax is just 0.25%. Healthcare through CCSS starts at $45/month.
"We retired to Atenas from Ohio. Our $2,400/month Social Security covers everything — rent, food, healthcare, entertainment. We live better here than we ever could in the States on the same budget."