Is Costa Rica expensive to live in?

Costa Rica isn’t the cheapest country in Central America, but it’s not outrageous either. Daily life costs less than in most major U.S. cities — especially if you adapt to local food and lifestyle. Where it gets pricey is rent in beach towns, imported goods, and electricity if you blast the A/C all day.

What is the average rent in Costa Rica?

Rent depends on location. In San José, a two-bedroom apartment runs $600–$1,200/month. In popular beach towns or suburbs, expect $800–$1,800/month. Rural areas can be as low as $400/month — but you’ll trade off some conveniences.

How much money do I need to live comfortably in Costa Rica?

A single person can live modestly on $1,200–$1,500/month. For more comfort (A/C, private healthcare, imported snacks), budget $2,000–$3,000/month. Couples usually spend $1,500–$2,500+ depending on lifestyle and location.

What’s the cost of food in Costa Rica?

Local produce, coffee, and seafood are affordable (think avocados for $0.50, pineapples for $1, fresh fish at local markets). Imported items, though, are expensive — a jar of peanut butter can be $8 and wine can sting your wallet. Sticking to the local diet saves money and makes you healthier.

Culture Shock in Costa Rica: Why It’s the Best Thing That Ever Happened to Me (Pura Vida, Baby)

Waymon Hudson
Oct 8
4 min read

Updated: Oct 16

Waymon Hudson, smiling man and expat to Costa Rica in a tropical jungle wearing swim briefs

Everyone asks me: “What’s the biggest difference about living in Costa Rica?” My answer? Culture shock. But not the scary kind. The life-changing, soul-reset kind. Costa Rica forces you to slow down, connect, and live in ways you didn’t even know you were missing. And honestly? It’s the best thing that’s ever happened to me.

1. Slowing Down (for Real This Time)

White-faced capuchin monkey sitting on a tree branch under large green leaves in Costa Rica’s jungle.

In the U.S., we glorify the grind. Busy = worthy. Hustle = holy. In Costa Rica? “Busy” is what you say when a sloth is crossing the road.

Here, mornings are for coffee on the porch, listening to the jungle (sometimes monkeys, sometimes birds, sometimes both). Stores open when they open. The repairman might come today… or Friday… or maybe after his cousin’s birthday party.

Lesson: The world won’t end if you don’t refresh your inbox at 6 a.m. But your blood pressure might thank you.

Golden sunset over a Costa Rican beach with waves reflecting the orange and pink hues of the sky.

2. Time Is Flexible (and That’s Beautiful)

Your friends will say “see you at 5,” which might mean anywhere between 5:15 and 7:30. Dinner isn’t a quick “eat and dash” — it’s a two- or three-hour experience where the point isn’t efficiency, it’s connection.

Pro tip: Don’t double-book. And let yourself enjoy the long game.

The words “Pura Vida” written in the sand on a Costa Rican beach with waves rolling in.

3. Greetings Matter (and They Should)

Every errand starts with a greeting. Walking into a store without saying buenos días is like walking into someone’s house and ignoring the host.

It’s small, but it changes everything. Being acknowledged as a person in every interaction feels radical compared to the U.S. “self-checkout, don’t make eye contact” culture.

The historic National Theater of Costa Rica in San José with the Costa Rican flag waving in front under a bright blue sky.

4. Bureaucracy = A Masterclass in Patience

Yes, paperwork here is… slow. Think sloth-in-August slow. Whether it’s getting a driver’s license, registering for the Caja, or opening a bank account, prepare for photocopies of photocopies.

It’s frustrating, sure. But it also forces you to unclench, breathe, and grab another coffee.

A multigenerational family dining at a traditional Costa Rican soda restaurant, being served homemade food at a colorful outdoor table.

5. Money Isn’t King - Relationships Are

Costa Rica runs on relationships, not dollars. Your neighbor, your feria vendor, your landlord — these connections are your real currency.

Treat people with kindness and respect, and doors (literal and metaphorical) will open.

6. Quick Takeaway

Culture shock in Costa Rica isn’t about struggle — it’s about unlearning the toxic pace and misplaced priorities you thought were normal. You’ll still miss efficiency sometimes, but you’ll gain a life where connection > convenience.

Costa Rica didn’t just slow me down — it made me present. And if you let it, it’ll do the same for you. Also check out the rest of the Pura Vida Diaries Blog Series:

Or check out the Pura Vida Diaries YouTube series!

Basically? If you’ve ever Googled “Can I really move to Costa Rica?” …this series is your sign.

FAQ: Culture Shock in Costa Rica

What is culture shock in Costa Rica like?

Culture shock in Costa Rica often means adjusting to a slower pace, flexible schedules, a focus on community, and more face-to-face interaction. It’s less about stress and more about learning patience, presence, and connection.

What’s the biggest adjustment for expats in Costa Rica?

The biggest adjustment is slowing down. From waiting in long bureaucratic lines to dinners that stretch for hours, life here prioritizes people and relationships over speed.

Is Costa Rica culture friendly to expats?

Yes. Costa Ricans (Ticos) are warm, welcoming, and community-focused. Expats who respect the culture, greet people properly, and embrace the pace of life integrate more easily.

Does Costa Rica have culture shocks compared to the U.S.?

Definitely. Punctuality, bureaucracy, and customer service move slower than in the U.S. — but you gain richer connections, stronger communities, and a healthier daily rhythm.

How does culture shock change your lifestyle in Costa Rica?

It shifts your priorities. You trade rushing for presence, transactions for relationships, and hustle culture for pura vida — which can make life feel more fulfilling and joyful.

📲 Follow Me

Want more than just the weekly blog drop? Let’s hang out everywhere:

🎥 YouTube → deep-dive videos of each blog (perfect for bingeing with coffee)
📸 Instagram → my daily life here (sunrises, dogs, jungle sweat, and a few shirtless selfies)
🎬 TikTok → the fun, fast, and slightly thirsty version of this expat adventure
👥 Facebook → where community + conversation actually happen
📰 Substack → longer reflections, essays, and behind-the-scenes of this wild queer jungle life