Costa Rica Retirement Calculator
Compare your cost of living in the US vs Costa Rica. See how much further your retirement savings stretch in one of the world's most popular retirement destinations — including Pensionado visa requirements, CAJA healthcare, and year-by-year projections.
Retirement Income (USD)
Current US Monthly Expenses
Costa Rica Location
Central Valley is the most affordable. Pacific beach towns (Tamarindo, Manuel Antonio) cost more. Mountain towns (Monteverde, Atenas) offer cool climates at lower prices.
Costa Rica Monthly Costs (USD)
Age & Retirement Timeline
Costa Rica Retirement Feasibility Score
Costa Rica retirement looks very feasible for you. Your income comfortably covers expenses, and your savings will stretch significantly further than in the US.
Monthly Savings vs US
$2,170
Extra Retirement Years
0
Monthly Cost in CR
$2,330
in Central Valley / San José
Monthly Savings vs US
$2,170
less per month than US
Annual Savings
$26,040
saved per year vs US
Extra Years Funded
0 years
additional retirement funded
Portfolio Longevity: US vs Costa Rica
How your retirement savings last over time in each scenario
Monthly Expense Breakdown in Costa Rica
Where your money goes each month
Total
$2,330
Housing/Rent
34%$800/yr
Food & Groceries
17%$400/yr
Healthcare
11%$250/yr
Transportation
9%$200/yr
Entertainment
11%$250/yr
Domestic Help
6%$150/yr
Utilities
5%$120/yr
Internet/Phone
3%$60/yr
US Travel
4%$100/yr
Cost Comparison: US vs Costa Rica by Category
Side-by-side monthly cost comparison (USD)
Year-by-Year Projection
Detailed comparison of costs and savings over your retirement
| Year | CR Costs (USD) | US Costs | Annual Savings | Cumulative Savings | Portfolio (CR) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $27,960 | $54,000 | $26,040 | $26,040 | $530,000 |
| 6 | $33,208 | $62,601 | $29,393 | $166,152 | $709,260 |
| 11 | $39,440 | $72,571 | $33,131 | $324,171 | $949,149 |
| 16 | $46,843 | $84,130 | $37,287 | $502,122 | $1,270,176 |
| 21 | $55,634 | $97,530 | $41,896 | $702,196 | $1,693,088 |
| 26 | $66,076 | $113,064 | $46,988 | $926,750 | $2,209,876 |
| 30 | $75,824 | $127,255 | $51,430 | $1,125,702 | $2,701,184 |
Personalized Insights
Actionable recommendations based on your numbers
You qualify for the Pensionado visa ($4,300/month income)
Costa Rica's Pensionado visa requires proof of at least $1,000/month in pension or Social Security income. With your income, you meet this requirement. The visa grants residency with access to CAJA healthcare, banking, and the ability to own property.
CAJA healthcare covers nearly everything for a fraction of US costs
Costa Rica's CAJA system provides universal healthcare to residents for about $100/month. It covers doctor visits, specialists, hospital stays, surgeries, prescriptions, and dental. Wait times can be long for non-urgent care, so many expats supplement with private insurance ($150/month) for faster access to private hospitals like CIMA and Clinica Biblica.
Costa Rica's territorial tax system benefits US retirees
Costa Rica only taxes income earned within its borders. Your US Social Security, pensions, 401(k) withdrawals, and IRA distributions are not taxed by Costa Rica. You still file US taxes as a citizen/permanent resident, but you avoid double taxation on your retirement income. This is a significant financial advantage over retiring in many US states.
Foreigners can own property in Costa Rica with the same rights as citizens
Unlike many countries, Costa Rica allows foreigners to own property outright (except in certain maritime zones near coastlines). Many retirees eventually buy rather than rent. Property taxes are very low — just 0.25% of registered value annually. However, buying requires careful due diligence with a reputable attorney, as title issues can occur in rural areas.
You could save 48% on monthly expenses — $26,040/year
Living in Central Valley / San José, your monthly expenses drop from $4,500 to $2,330 — a savings of $2,170/month. Over 30 years, this adds up to significant wealth preservation, giving your portfolio 0 additional years of longevity compared to retiring in the US.
Safety considerations for expat retirees in Costa Rica
Costa Rica is generally considered the safest country in Central America and has no military. Popular expat areas like Atenas, Grecia, and Escazu have low crime rates. Standard precautions apply: avoid flashing valuables, use secure housing, and learn the local area. The expat community is large and supportive — organizations like ARCR (Association of Residents of Costa Rica) provide resources and social connections.
The Pura Vida lifestyle offers more than financial savings
Costa Rica consistently ranks among the happiest countries in the world. The Nicoya Peninsula is one of only five Blue Zones, where people regularly live past 100. Year-round warm weather, abundant nature, affordable domestic help, fresh tropical food, and a slower pace of life contribute to better health outcomes. Many retirees report lower stress, better sleep, and improved overall wellbeing after relocating.
Domestic help at $150/month — an affordable luxury
Hiring a housekeeper, gardener, or cook is common and affordable in Costa Rica. A full-time housekeeper costs $400-600/month, while part-time help (2-3 days/week) runs $100-250/month. Costa Rica has strong labor laws — domestic workers must receive minimum wage, social security enrollment (CAJA), vacation pay, and a Christmas bonus (aguinaldo). Budget for these legally required benefits.