Living on Costa Rica's Caribbean Coast: A Practical Guide for Expats
What you need to know about establishing yourself on the Caribbean side, from Puerto Viejo's vibe to infrastructure realities and everyday logistics.
Who This Guide Is For
- Expats seeking a laid-back, alternative lifestyle
- People drawn to Caribbean culture, reggae, and Afro-Caribbean influences
- Those prioritizing affordability over infrastructure
- Anyone researching the Caribbean coast before visiting or moving
At a Glance
Typical ranges for Caribbean Coast. These are estimates and vary based on location, lifestyle, and circumstances.
Typical rent (2BR)
$500–1,000/mo
More affordable than Pacific; basic amenities common
Typical rent (house)
$700–1,500/mo
Simple construction typical; ocean views available cheaper than Pacific
Groceries (monthly)
$350–500
Limited selection; local Caribbean foods available
Healthcare
Very limited
Basic clinic in Puerto Viejo; hospital in Limón; serious care requires San José
Climate
Hot and humid year-round
No true dry season; rain possible any time; September-October driest
Internet
Improving but variable
Fiber reaching some areas; many still on slower connections
What to Know Before You Arrive
Key considerations that affect your timeline and planning.
The Caribbean is culturally distinct from the rest of Costa Rica
Costa Rica's Caribbean coast has Afro-Caribbean heritage with influences from Jamaica and other Caribbean islands. The culture, food, music, and pace of life differ significantly from the Pacific coast or Central Valley. English-based Creole is spoken alongside Spanish. This isn't just a different beach—it's a different cultural experience.
Infrastructure is the most limited in Costa Rica
The Caribbean coast is Costa Rica's least developed region for expats. Healthcare options are minimal, banking is limited, and government services require trips to Limón or San José. Power outages and internet issues are more common. This is the tradeoff for lower costs and a more authentic experience.
The climate has no true dry season
Unlike the Pacific coast with its distinct dry season, the Caribbean can rain any time of year. September and October are typically driest, but 'dry' is relative. The weather is consistently hot and humid. Some people love this tropical consistency; others find the humidity challenging.
The expat community is smaller and different
The Caribbean coast attracts a specific type of expat—often younger, more alternative, seeking adventure over amenities. The community is smaller than Guanacaste or the Central Valley. If you're looking for fellow retirees or a large English-speaking community, this may not be the best fit.
Neighborhoods & Areas
Costa Rica's Caribbean coast stretches from the port city of Limón south to the Panama border. Most expats concentrate in the southern zone around Puerto Viejo, Cahuita, and Manzanillo. The area is known for wildlife, national parks, and a relaxed vibe. Towns are small and connected by a single coastal road. Limón offers more services but less appeal for expat living.
For detailed cost breakdowns, see the Costa Rica cost of living guide.
Puerto Viejo
Main hub for expats and tourists. Restaurants, bars, and surf culture. Most infrastructure in the region. Can feel crowded in high season. Youngest and most active expat scene.
Cahuita
Quieter than Puerto Viejo. National park access. More local feel. Fewer amenities but more tranquil. Popular with those seeking a slower pace. Small Afro-Caribbean community.
Manzanillo
End of the road before Panama border. Very quiet, remote feel. Limited services. Wildlife and nature focus. Smallest expat presence. True escape option.
Cocles/Playa Chiquita
Between Puerto Viejo and Manzanillo. Beach community with some restaurants and lodges. Balance of access and quiet. Growing in popularity.
Limón
Port city and regional capital. Has hospital, banks, and services. Not a tourist destination or expat hub. Some expats visit for services but few live here.
Tortuguero area
Northern Caribbean, accessible only by boat or plane. Remote eco-tourism focus. Not practical for permanent living. Visit destination, not residential option.
Setup Priorities
Key areas to research and plan for when setting up in Caribbean Coast. Each involves tradeoffs worth understanding before you arrive.
Visas & Residency
Immigration requires trips to San José (4+ hours). Plan travel around appointments. Limited local assistance for paperwork.
Distance from San José means significant travel for immigration matters; budget time and money accordingly.
View guideBanking
One or two banks in Puerto Viejo. More options in Limón. ATMs exist but can run out of cash. Many expats maintain accounts elsewhere.
Limited banking infrastructure; rely on digital banking and plan cash needs in advance.
View guideHealthcare
Basic clinic in Puerto Viejo. Hospital in Limón (1 hour). Serious care requires San José (4+ hours). Private evacuation insurance is wise.
Healthcare limitations are real; not ideal for those with ongoing medical needs.
View guideCost of Living
Most affordable coast in Costa Rica. Housing, food, and services cost less than Guanacaste or Central Valley. Trade lower costs for fewer amenities.
Lowest costs but also lowest infrastructure; true budget option but requires adaptation.
View guideCommon Pitfalls & Misconceptions
Issues that frequently affect expats settling in Caribbean Coast.
- Expecting Pacific coast infrastructure on the Caribbean side—it's significantly less developed
- Underestimating the humidity—it's constant and affects daily life and belongings
- Moving without understanding healthcare limitations—this is a real consideration
- Assuming the 'party vibe' represents daily life—Puerto Viejo is quieter than it appears in tourism photos
- Not preparing for rain any time of year—there's no reliable dry season
- Expecting a large expat community—it's smaller and younger than other regions
- Not having reliable transportation—limited roads mean driving or biking is necessary
Key Things to Verify
Before committing to Caribbean Coast, confirm these items based on your specific situation.
- Spend at least a week in the area before committing—the pace is very different.
- Test internet at potential housing—essential for remote work and highly variable.
- Understand the drive time to Limón hospital and what that means for emergencies. Learn more
- Confirm you can adapt to high humidity year-round.
- Research the local community—it attracts a specific lifestyle that may or may not fit.
- Verify banking and ATM access near your target location.
Common Next Steps
Continue your research with these related guides.
Costa Rica Country Guide
Broader context on Costa Rican bureaucracy and nationwide considerations.
Living in San José / Central Valley
Compare with Costa Rica's capital region.
Living in Guanacaste
Compare with the Pacific coast option.
Cost of Living in Costa Rica
Understand regional cost differences.
Related Guides
Explore our topic guides for detailed information on each aspect of expat life.
Important: This guide provides general information for planning purposes. Neighborhood characteristics, costs, and availability change frequently. Always visit areas in person, verify current information, and consult qualified professionals before making housing or financial decisions. This is not legal, tax, or real estate advice.