It is better to be poor in Costa Rica than the United States
Let’s face it! It is terrible to be poor anywhere in the world. In Costa Rica about 200,000 thousand people live in extreme poverty and 700,000 thousand more are below the poverty line. To put this into proper perspective the total population of Costa Rica is a little over 5 million. There are no food stamps or welfare like in the United States but the poor do receive help in the form of medical care, affordable education for their children, school lunches and inexpensive food. Basic staples like rice, beans , and eggs are kept affordable for the poor. Tropical fruits and vegetables grow wild, so that some Costa Ricans, especially those who live in the countryside, can literally live off the land. Despite the incidence of poverty here we do not have 1000s of people living in the streets, in tents and in cars like many areas in the U.S. Just look at the homeless problem the city of San Francisco, California has. The poor here live in very modest structures but at least they have a roof over their head. What does all of this have to with Costa Rica retirement?
In general, Costa Rica is much more affordable than the States depending on one’s lifestyle. Those with small pensions, who would be living in below the poverty line in the U.S., can survive in this country. To live here legally you need an income of at least $1000 monthly. I know single people who live on that amount and just scrape by. They often rent rooms, housesit, barter or work over the Internet. However, anyone thinking of moving to Costa Rica will find it difficult to work legally. On top of that, if you are fortunate enough to find a job, like teaching in a private school, the pay is not up to U.S. standards. Nevertheless, some expats start a small business (it is legal to own a business), find legal employment or to work under the table (not recommended) in order to supplement their pensions.
An income of $1500 to $2000 would be much better than $1000 and afford a single person a better lifestyle. Couples can get by for $2000 to $3500. (See the website www.retireforlessincostarica.com) to get an idea of what the couple behind it spends monthly. Costa Ricans get by on far less than the average expat and have a decent lifestyle. So, a North American retiree should be able to survive easily.
Public transportation is dirt cheap and has to be kept affordable so the poor can get to work. Fruits and vegetables are a real bargain at the many outdoor farmers markets held every weekend. If you become a legal resident health care through the public system (C.C.S.S.) costs under $100 per month for a couple and covers all preexisting conditions, medicines, doctor’s visits, surgical procedures hospitalization and laboratory tests. No heating or air-conditioning are required in most parts of the country, so electric bills are reasonable. There are also may free entertainment venues, clubs for English speakers, affordable sporting events and plethora of activities to stay busy and happy.
The bottom line is the many retired expats can have a decent and affordable lifestyle without sacrificing their dignity as in the U.S.
