Costa Rica is among the best countries for Americans who want to live abroad

Recently, there have been two separate articles from Travel and Leisure about the best countries for Americans and others to retire around the world.

“According to the U.S. State Department, millions of Americans are actually doing it. The idea of uprooting is far less far-fetched than it used to be, and it’s easier than ever to do with the help of globalization, frequent flier miles, and the increased freedom of working remotely. Moving abroad can appeal to just about anyone, whether you’re a future retiree aiming to make the most of those golden years, a Gen Z entrepreneur, or a family relocating for a new job.”

A major factor, if not the most important one, when considering a move abroad is the cost of living. This umbrella term covers the price of housing, of course, but also health care, taxes, and tax incentives, as well as transportation, and prices for things like internet, groceries, shopping, and dining. If budget is a concern, look beyond the biggest city and capital of the country you are interested in and consider smaller cities where you can find lower prices and, potentially, a better quality of life, depending on your style.

Many settle in new locations to make their retirement income go further or to enjoy new experiences. Recent data from the Social Security Administration shows that more than 700,000 Americans receive their payments abroad.

While there are many nations to consider for your new home, both articles narrowed down this list of the best countries for expats by prioritizing a range of topics including safety, friendliness, quality of life, and access to culture and outdoor activities.

All offer some or all of these different perks for expats like a low cost of living, good medical care at a lower cost than in the United States, easy residency requirements, superb international schools, English-speaking expat communities, more affordable real estate, and lower-priced rentals and above all a high-quality lifestyle.

Both articles mention countries around the world such as Spain, Portugal, New Zealand, Sweden, Malta, and Singapore.

In the Americas, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Panama, Mexico, Colombia, and of course Costa Rica all made the list.

Unsurprisingly, here is what both articles said about Costa Rica.

“This Central American country, stretches from the Caribbean to the Pacific, with rainforests, jungles, and beaches. Costs vary as widely as environments, but in general, the cost of living (see https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/in/San-Jose-Costa-Rica) in Costa Rica is reasonable. For example, in the city of San Jose, the cost of housing is 83 percent lower than in New York, and the cost of living is 53 percent less.”

“A few ways to become a resident include the Pensionado Program which requires a monthly income of at least $1,000. The Rentista Program, for those without a monthly pension, requires a minimum of $60,000 or a monthly income of $2,500 for at least two years.”

“Healthcare is available through public and private systems. For residents, the national medical program, La Caja, (with no copays or exclusions) is available along with the option of private

The second article states, “Relocating Costa Rica isn’t a novel idea for anyone who has ever visited the country (and likely met a few friendly expats along the way), but there’s a reason for its persisting popularity. Situated between the Pacific and Caribbean coasts, this utopic Central American nation wins people over with its exotic volcanoes, cloud forests, and wildlife, like sloths, capuchin monkeys, and toucans. More than that, it’s the Pura Vida (“Pure Life“) philosophy for good living, which sums up this peaceful Spanish-speaking gem. Sweetening the deal, the country offers a straightforward residence program, affordable dental and healthcare, a stable democracy, and easy flights to the U.S. from two international airports. While the capital of San Jose has a notable food and arts scene, expats can head to either coast for long stretches of undeveloped beaches, seaside villages, surfing and yoga classes, neighborly expat communities, and business ventures often tied to eco-tourism. If you prioritize a healthy, laid-back lifestyle surrounded by natural beauty with an evergreen cool factor that is hard to imitate anywhere else, then this might be the place for you.”