🇨🇷 Ready to start a new adventure in San José? If you’re planning a move to San José, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need for a smooth transition.
What should I know about living in San José at a glance?
- Flag: 🇨🇷
- Population: Approximately 340,000 residents (San José city; over 2 million in the Greater Metropolitan Area)
- Currency: Costa Rican Colón (CRC)
- Average salary: Around ₡700,000–₡1,000,000 CRC per month (approximately €1,150–€1,700, depending on exchange rates)
- Live MKD ←→ Dollar: Use dynamic currency converters for the latest exchange rates
- National Institute of Statistics and Census of Costa Rica (INEC), 2025
- Central Bank of Costa Rica (BCCR), 2025
- XE, 2025
Reviewed by National Institute of Statistics and Census of Costa Rica (INEC), last updated in July 2025; Central Bank of Costa Rica (Banco Central de Costa Rica – BCCR), last updated in July 2025; XE Financial Data Team, last updated in April 2025.
How Much Does It Cost to Move Your Belongings to San José?
The cost of relocating to San José depends on factors such as shipment size, transport method, country of origin, and any additional relocation or customs-handling fees. Below are typical market rates in EUR as of mid-2025:
| Shipment Method | Transit Time | Estimated Cost (EUR) |
| 20-ft container | ~3–6 weeks | €1,200–€2,800 |
| 40-ft container | ~3–6 weeks | €2,500–€5,200 |
| Air freight (per kg) | Few days | €4.00–€8.50+ |
| Customs / Fees | — | €150–€400+ |
Reviewed by Freightos Market Analytics Team and Maersk Logistics Research Team, last updated in July 2025.
Use a real-time moving calculator for a tailored quote with ReloAdvisor.
Real-life case:
“I relocated to San José, Costa Rica, in March 2025 with about 7 cubic meters of belongings using a shared 20-ft container. The total cost, including customs clearance and delivery to my new apartment, was around €2,100. The shipment arrived in about four weeks, and the moving company managed all logistics professionally, making my relocation to Costa Rica smooth and hassle-free.” — Ana K., moved in March 2025
Many people relocating to Costa Rica often choose to settle in popular cities and regions such as San José, Escazú, Santa Ana, Heredia, and Alajuela. These areas offer a balanced mix of career opportunities, modern amenities, cultural attractions, and welcoming local and international communities. Their combination of relative safety, access to healthcare and education, diverse lifestyles, and proximity to nature makes them particularly appealing for expats starting a new chapter in Costa Rica.
How to understand the cost of living in San José?
As of mid-2025, San José has a moderate cost of living compared to North America and Western Europe, though it is higher than in many Eastern European cities. According to Numbeo, a single person’s monthly expenses (excluding rent) average €700–€850. A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre typically costs €650–€1,000 per month, while living outside central areas can reduce housing costs.
Public transport is affordable and widely used, with a monthly pass costing around €35–€45. The average monthly net salary in San José is about €850–€950, which generally covers basic living expenses for a modest lifestyle. Strong healthcare, political stability, and access to nature continue to make San José appealing to newcomers.
| Category | Approximate Cost (San José) |
| Monthly expenses (excluding rent, single person) | ~ €700–€850 |
| One-bedroom apartment (city centre) | ~ €650–€1,000 / month |
| Monthly public transport pass | ~ €35–€45 |
| Average monthly net salary | ~ €850–€950 |
Reviewed by Numbeo Data Quality Team, last updated in June 2025
How to Apply for a Visa and Meet Residency Requirements for Costa Rica?
Foreign nationals moving to Costa Rica must obtain the appropriate visa or residence permit based on their stay’s purpose. Short-term stays (up to 90 days) may be visa-free for many nationalities, but long-term residence requires formal authorization. Options include Temporary Residence (Work, Student, Rentista, Pensionado, or Family Link) and Permanent Residence. Residents must maintain valid status, register with immigration, enroll in public health insurance (CCSS), and provide proof of income, clean criminal record, and official documents.
Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería (DGME): official immigration authority with information on visas and residency procedures
Reviewed by the Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería (DGME), last updated in 2025
How to Access Healthcare and Insurance Options in Costa Rica?
Costa Rica provides healthcare through its public system, the Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS), complemented by private healthcare providers. All residents, including foreign nationals with long-term residence, are required to enroll in CCSS, which covers general practitioner visits, specialist care, hospital treatments, and certain medications. Short-term visitors or those not covered by CCSS should obtain private health insurance. Private clinics and hospitals are widely available in San José, Heredia, and other major cities.
Reviewed by the Healthcare in Costa Rica (International Living), last updated in 2025
How to Navigate the Housing Market as a Newcomer to San José?
Renting a home in San José typically requires a security deposit equivalent to 1–3 months’ rent, plus the first month’s rent paid upfront. Most landlords will ask for a valid passport or ID, proof of income or employment, and occasionally references from previous landlords. Standard lease agreements are usually 12 months, though shorter-term rentals may be available at a higher monthly cost. Utilities such as electricity, water, internet, and municipal services (garbage or water fees) are generally not included and must be paid separately by the tenant.
San José offers a wide range of residential options that suit different lifestyles and budgets, making it a popular choice for newcomers relocating to Costa Rica.
Popular residential areas in San José include:
- San José City Centre (Downtown): Ideal for those who prefer an urban lifestyle, with modern apartments close to offices, shops, restaurants, museums, and public transportation hubs.
- Escazú: One of the most sought-after districts for expatriates, offering upscale apartments, gated communities, shopping malls, international schools, and excellent healthcare facilities.
- Santa Ana: A quieter, suburban-style area just west of central San José, known for newer developments, green spaces, and a strong expat community.
- Rohmoser & Sabana: Residential neighborhoods near La Sabana Park, popular for their walkability, high-rise apartments, and proximity to business centers and embassies.
- Curridabat: A fast-developing area east of downtown San José, combining modern condominiums, shopping centers, and a more local residential feel.
Reviewed by InterNations and Housing Relocation Guide, last updated in July 2025
How to Understand Your Tax and Pension Obligations in Costa Rica?
If you are considered a tax resident in Costa Rica—generally determined by residing in the country for more than 183 days per year or having your main economic interests in Costa Rica—you are taxed on your worldwide income. Residents are also required to contribute to the Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS), which covers pensions, healthcare, and social benefits.
Costa Rica has agreements with some countries to prevent double taxation, ensuring residents are not taxed twice on the same income. The Ministerio de Hacienda (Ministry of Finance) administers all tax obligations, including income tax, social security contributions, and pension regulations.
| Tax Component | Description |
| Social Security / Pension Contributions | Mandatory contributions covering retirement savings, healthcare, and social benefits through the CCSS |
| Double Tax Treaties | Agreements to prevent double taxation of international income for residents |
Reviewed by the Ministry of Finance of Costa Rica, last updated 2025
How to Comply with Customs and Duty Rules When Moving to Costa Rica?
When relocating to Costa Rica, used household goods and personal belongings can generally be imported duty- and tax-free if they have been owned and used for at least six months and are intended solely for personal use. To qualify, you must submit a customs declaration, a detailed inventory of your goods, your passport, and proof of residence. It is recommended that your items arrive around the time of your relocation.
New or commercial goods, high-value electronics, and certain restricted items—such as firearms, specific medications, or animal products—may be subject to customs duties or require import permits. Accurate and complete declarations are essential to avoid inspection delays, fines, or confiscation.
Reviewed by the Importing Personal Property Into Costa Rica (Atlas International Customs Guide), last updated in 2025
Real-life case:
“When I relocated from Sofia, Bulgaria, to San José, Costa Rica, in August 2025, I prepared a detailed inventory of all my personal belongings and submitted it along with the required customs declaration to the Costa Rican Customs Authority (Dirección General de Aduanas). Since my items had been owned and used for over six months, they qualified for duty- and tax-free import. My shipment by sea arrived in about three weeks, and the moving company handled all customs procedures smoothly.” — Elena P., moved in August 2025.
How to Manage Pet Relocation When Moving to Costa Rica?
Bringing pets into Costa Rica requires meeting national veterinary regulations. Dogs, cats, and ferrets must be microchipped, vaccinated against rabies, and accompanied by a valid veterinary health certificate issued by an authorized veterinarian. Pets from countries with higher rabies risk may also require an import permit and rabies antibody (titer) test. Short quarantine may apply if documentation or health requirements are incomplete.
Starting preparations early is essential, and many pet owners use professional pet relocation services to handle permits, veterinary scheduling, and travel logistics.
Reviewed by the Bringing Your Pet to Costa Rica, last updated in 2025
How to Import a Car and Swap Your Driver’s License in Costa Rica?
Imported vehicles in Costa Rica must comply with national safety, environmental, and registration standards. Cars coming from abroad may be subject to customs duties, import taxes, and registration fees. Required documents include the vehicle title, proof of ownership, and technical compliance certificates. Vehicles must pass inspection (revision técnica) to ensure roadworthiness and emissions compliance before registration with the Costa Rican Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MOPT).
Foreign driver’s licenses are generally valid for up to 90 days. Long-term residents must exchange their foreign license for a Costa Rican driver’s license, which may require a written or practical test depending on the country of origin.
Reviewed by the Costa Rica Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MOPT), last updated in 2025
How to Open a Bank Account and Obtain a Tax ID in Costa Rica?
To open a bank account, you need a valid passport, proof of address, and, if applicable, your residency permit. Major banks like Banco Nacional, Banco de Costa Rica, Banco Popular, and Scotiabank Costa Rica offer accounts, debit cards, online banking, and international transfers.
For tax purposes, long-term residents or earners must obtain a Tax ID (NIT) from the Dirección General de Tributación, required for employment, banking, and tax filings.
Reviewed by Costa Rica Tax Authority and major banks, 2025
Where can I find tools and more resources before moving?
For further guidance, make use of the volume calculator, book a video survey, or explore comprehensive guides for the USA and Mexico with ReloAdvisor.
