Consulate General of Costa Rica

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"Costa Rica's 'pura vida' culture, varied environments from the Caribbean to the Pacific, and generally reasonable cost of living make it appealing—San José housing is about 79% lower than New York City and consumer prices about 44% lower. Residency options include the Pensionado Program, which requires a monthly income of at least $1,000 transferred to a Costa Rican bank, and the Rentista Program, which requires a minimum of $60,000 or a monthly income of $2,500 for at least two years. Health care is available through public and private systems: residents can access the national medical program with no co-pays or exclusions, or choose private care with out-of-pocket costs that can be self-insured or covered by private insurance." - Patricia Doherty Patricia Doherty Patricia Doherty is a writer who specializes in covering destinations, resorts, and cruises for Travel + Leisure and other publications. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines