Costa Rica is internationally recognized for its top-notch medical services, both public and private, thanks to its wealth of skilled surgeons and state-of-the-art facilities. The country’s top private hospitals – CIMA, Clinica Biblica and Clinica Catolica – offer complete services including ultrasound, X-ray, emergency and intensive care, and bilingual staff. The United Nations ranked Costa Rica’s public health system within the top 20 worldwide.

Costa Rica is internationally recognized for its top-notch medical services, both public and private, thanks to its wealth of skilled surgeons and state-of-the-art facilities. For minor aches and pains, visit a local pharmacy. All pharmacies are required to have a licensed pharmacist on staff, and they can diagnose certain ailments and prescribe medication on the spot. 

Legal residents must affiliate with the Caja (CCSS), Costa Rica’s public health system. The cost to affiliate with CCSS is approximately 10 to 11.5% of your income. You may also choose to purchase private insurance, which generally costs $50-100 per month and entitles you to benefits within Costa Rica’s excellent private healthcare system. 

Absolutely. At present, the average Social Security benefit runs just under $1200 a month. It is entirely feasible to live on such a budget, but you’ll give up certain amenities like car ownership, frequent restaurant outings, and splash outs on imported goods. If you’re retiring with a partner or spouse who also earns Social Security benefits, your housing options will increase dramatically.

Housing, services and medical care in Costa Rica are much cheaper than in North America; an individual can live comfortably here on $1500 per month, but a lot depends on personal preferences. It’s feasible to live frugally in a one-bedroom apartment with no car for $750 per month, but it is equally possible to live large on more than $3000 monthly.