Published on and written by Cyril Jarnias
Moving to Costa Rica is a dream for many, drawn by its paradisiacal landscapes and exceptional quality of life. However, when preparing for expatriation, safety remains a primary concern for future residents.
This article explores how to live in complete serenity in this country known for its political stability and openness towards foreigners. By covering topics ranging from neighborhoods to settle in, to daily precautions, you’ll discover the keys to fully enjoying your experience without hassle.
Whether you’re considering a permanent move or a life split between two cultures, a few practical tips can make all the difference.
Understanding Safety in Costa Rica: Is it a Safe Destination for Expatriates?
Costa Rica Crime Rates (2024-2025)
| Indicator | Value/Observation |
|---|---|
| Annual Homicides (2025, projection) | 850 to 900 |
| Homicides Recorded (end of July 2025) | 502 |
| Average Daily Murder Rate | 2.4 |
| Weapon Used in Homicides | 79% firearms |
| Links to Gangs | 74% of homicides |
| Global Peace Index Ranking | 58th out of 163 (safest in the region) |
| Berkshire Hathaway Safest Places Ranking | 32nd out of 42 (safest in the region) |
Urban Areas Popular with Expatriates and Crime
- San José (especially the south of the capital): marked increase in homicides, primarily related to gang score-settling.
- Limón: strong presence of organized crime, stable but concerning situation.
- Puntarenas: slight decrease in violence in 2025.
- Cartago: 20% increase in homicides in early 2024.
- Neighborhoods favored by expatriates (Escazú, Santa Ana, Tamarindo, Nosara) mainly experience theft, burglary, or assault crimes, less extreme violence than some peripheral neighborhoods.
Most Common Types of Crime
- Homicides (sharply increasing, primarily linked to gangs and drug trafficking)
- Theft (hurto): consistently above 1,000 reports per year, with peaks close to 2,000.
- Assaults/Attacks (asalto): follow the same trend as theft, include verbal and physical aggression.
- Burglaries of homes, businesses, and vehicles: stable over several years.
- Domestic Violence: number of reported cases low compared to public crimes.
Perception of Safety by Residents and Expatriates
CIEP Survey (April 2024): 41.8% of Costa Ricans consider insecurity the country’s main problem (compared to 13.3% in October 2022).
Expatriate Testimonials:
- Some report snatch-and-grab thefts or burglaries in neighborhoods otherwise considered safe.
- Others emphasize that, despite the rise in crime, daily life remains pleasant by taking basic precautions.
- Expatriates in the Central Valley mention avoiding going out at night or traveling alone in certain neighborhoods.
Local residents express growing concern, particularly regarding the increase in homicides and the greater visibility of firearms.
Authorities’ Efforts to Improve Security
- Strengthening police forces in high-risk areas.
- Increased patrols and visible presence in tourist neighborhoods.
- Prevention and awareness campaigns for community safety.
- Inter-institutional collaboration between the national police, OIJ (Organismo de Investigación Judicial), and local authorities.
- Requests from civil society and the tourism sector for more resources, funding, and equipment for the police.
- Community initiatives: neighborhood watch groups, surveillance cameras, local alert apps.
International Comparison: Safety for Expatriates
| Country | Global Peace Index Ranking (2024) | Perceived Safety Level |
|---|---|---|
| Costa Rica | 58/163 (safest in Central America) | High, but declining |
| Mexico | 136/163 | Low |
| Panama | 60/163 | Medium to High |
| Portugal | 7/163 | Very High |
| Spain | 32/163 | High |
Costa Rica remains safer than most Latin American countries, but the trend is deteriorating, particularly in urban centers.
Practical Tips for Expatriates
- Prioritize neighborhoods known to be safe (Escazú, Santa Ana, Tamarindo, Nosara).
- Avoid traveling alone at night, especially in urban centers and peripheral neighborhoods.
- Do not display valuables (jewelry, phones, designer bags) in public places.
- Use official taxis or recognized apps for nighttime travel.
- Get local information on areas to avoid, which can change quickly.
- Participate in neighborhood watch groups or expatriate forums to exchange safety information.
- Secure doors and windows, install alarms or cameras if possible.
- Be vigilant when withdrawing money and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
- Report any incident or suspicious behavior to local authorities.
Vigilance and integration into community life remain the best assets for enjoying Costa Rica serenely, despite an evolving security context.
Good to Know:
Major cities like San José record higher crime rates, notably pickpocketing and burglaries, but local initiatives are strengthening security, while expatriates recommend avoiding isolated areas at night; compared to other destinations, Costa Rica remains generally safe with a vigilant and proactive community.
Essential Tips for a Serene Expatriation in Costa Rica
Essential Tips for a Serene Expatriation in Costa Rica:
Learn Spanish
Mastering Spanish greatly facilitates local integration, handling administrative procedures, and daily interactions. Even in tourist regions where English is widespread, daily life (public services, healthcare, commerce) primarily takes place in Spanish.
Choosing a Neighborhood to Settle In
Prioritize neighborhoods known for their safety:
- Escazú (San José)
- Santa Ana (San José)
- Atenas (Alajuela)
These areas host many expatriates and offer easy access to amenities and security.
Administrative Procedures to Complete Before/After Arrival
- Prepare all documents required for the residency application: apostilled birth certificates, marriage certificates, clean criminal record, proof of income.
- Choose the appropriate type of residency:
- Pensionado: retirees with a pension
- Rentista: self-employed or entrepreneurs with stable income
- Inversionista: real estate investors or entrepreneurs
- Use a local specialized lawyer to facilitate procedures and avoid errors.
| Residency Type | Main Conditions | Advantages |
|---|---|---|
| Pensionado | Pension ≥ $1,000/month | Easier access to healthcare |
| Rentista | Guaranteed income ≥ $2,500/month | Ideal for digital nomads |
| Inversionista | Investment ≥ $200,000 | Business creation |
Respect Cultural Aspects
Costa Ricans value mutual respect and politeness (“pura vida” is not just a slogan). It is advisable to adopt an open attitude towards cultural differences:
- Avoid overly direct or impatient criticism of the local administrative pace.
- Integrate into the community by participating in local events.
- Respect social norms regarding relative punctuality (“hora tica”) and the environment.
Establish a Support Network
- Join expatriate groups via social networks or local associations.
- Participate in community activities to meet both locals and other settled foreigners.
Useful List:
- Online forums dedicated to expatriates in Costa Rica
- Informal meetings organized by Francophone/Anglophone associations
Appropriate Health Insurance
Subscribe to international health insurance covering private care or join the Costa Rican public system (“Caja”). Verify that your contract includes medical repatriation if necessary. The private sector generally offers more speed but is more expensive.
| System | Coverage | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Public (“Caja”) | Basic care | Low |
| Private national | Comprehensive care | Medium |
| International insurance | Repatriation included | Variable |
Stay Informed on Security & Local Alerts
Regularly consult official government websites and expatriate groups to know about:
- Weather alerts (hurricane season)
- Risks related to wildlife (snakes, insects)
- Advice against petty theft in tourist areas
Preventive List:
- Avoid visible valuables when traveling
- Get information before any isolated excursion
Serenely Enjoy Natural Attractions While Respecting Guidelines
National parks impose strict rules regarding environmental protection. Respect marked trails; never feed wild animals; follow official recommendations during swimming or hiking to avoid accidents.
Fully enjoy “pura vida” while remaining cautious: language adaptation, rigorous procedures, and cultural openness are your best assets!
Good to Know:
Learning Spanish facilitates local integration and choosing secure neighborhoods is essential; also consider subscribing to appropriate health insurance and respecting guidelines to enjoy Costa Rica’s natural wonders.
Tips to Strengthen Your Daily Security
- Stay informed about local security advisories
Regularly consult official portals, mobile apps, or expatriate groups to receive updates on security in your region. Sign up for embassy alerts and follow the advice of local authorities.
- Secure your home
- Install a reliable home alarm system.
- Prefer accommodations with video surveillance or security guards.
- Always lock doors and windows, even during short absences.
- Avoid leaving valuables visible from the outside.
Safe Practices During Travel
| Situation | Costa Rica-Specific Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Nighttime Travel | Avoid isolated and sparsely populated neighborhoods |
| Taxi Use | Use only official taxis (red with a yellow or orange triangle at the airport), book in advance, note the driver’s name and vehicle number |
| Bus | Keep your personal belongings on you, do not place anything under the seat or in the luggage compartment; stay vigilant against pickpockets |
| Car Rental | Keep your items out of sight; lock doors/windows; avoid prolonged parking on beaches or isolated places |
- Confidentiality on Social Media
- Set your profiles to private mode.
- Do not post your exact location or daily habits in real-time.
- Limit the dissemination of sensitive information (address, photos showing your home or routine).
Creating a Trust Network
Tips for effective integration:
- Actively participate in local expatriate groups (forums, private social networks).
- Regularly exchange with Costa Rican neighbors to share useful information: local news, practical advice, and neighborhood-specific alerts.
- Organize informal meetings around common interests to establish a supportive dynamic.
Advantages:
- Quick access to reliable information
- Support in case of emergency
- Sharing personalized recommendations
Subscribing to Theft or Property Damage Insurance
To protect your belongings against theft and other incidents:
- Opt for comprehensive travel insurance covering theft/property damage as well as civil liability.
- Verify that your contract includes local assistance in case of a problem.
- Compare several specialized offers from agencies recommended by expatriates settled in Costa Rica.
Synthetic List of Key Points:
- Stay informed via official sources
- Secure your home with alarms/surveillance
- Choose reliable routes and recognized transportation
- Protect your digital privacy
- Create a strong local network (expatriates + residents)
- Subscribe to appropriate insurance
To be scrupulously followed to preserve both personal safety and that of your belongings in Costa Rica.
Good to Know:
Stay informed about local security advisories, use alarm systems, and prioritize reliable transportation services; avoid sharing sensitive information on social media. Create a trust network with other expatriates and subscribe to theft insurance for greater peace of mind.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or professional advice. We encourage you to consult qualified experts before making any investment, real estate, or expatriation decisions. Although we strive to maintain up-to-date and accurate information, we do not guarantee the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of the proposed content. As investment and expatriation involve risks, we disclaim any liability for potential losses or damages arising from the use of this site. Your use of this site confirms your acceptance of these terms and your understanding of the associated risks.
Cyril Jarnias is an independent expert in international wealth management with over 20 years of experience. As an expatriate himself, he is dedicated to helping individuals and business leaders build, protect, and pass on their wealth with complete peace of mind.
On his website, cyriljarnias.com, he shares his expertise on international real estate, offshore company formation, and expatriation.
Thanks to his expertise, he offers sound advice to optimize his clients' wealth management. Cyril Jarnias is also recognized for his appearances in many prestigious media outlets such as BFM Business, les Français de l’étranger, Le Figaro, Les Echos, and Mieux vivre votre argent, where he shares his knowledge and know-how in wealth management.
