What is the most peaceful place in Costa Rica?
The most peaceful places in Costa Rica are typically found outside the busy urban centers. One standout is Ojochal, a quiet town on the southern Pacific coast known for its natural beauty, international dining, and strong sense of community. With little traffic, minimal noise, and a laid-back atmosphere, Ojochal attracts retirees and families seeking a tranquil lifestyle. Nearby, Uvita and Dominical also offer peaceful environments with easy access to beaches, waterfalls, and wildlife, all surrounded by lush jungle.
Where is the best place to live in Costa Rica?
The best place to live in Costa Rica depends on your lifestyle and priorities. If you want walkable beach towns with amenities and a strong expat community, Uvita is a top choice. It’s the commercial heart of the Costa Ballena region, offering banks, medical clinics, supermarkets, and schools. If you’re after cooler weather, Atenas or Grecia in the Central Valley are ideal mountain towns with reliable services and easy access to the international airport. For surf, scenery, and an active outdoor lifestyle, Dominical and Nosara are also fantastic options.
Where do most retirees live in Costa Rica?
Most retirees choose areas that offer safety, healthcare access, a moderate climate, and a supportive expat community. Popular retirement destinations include:
- Atenas – for its temperate weather and small-town charm
- Grecia – for affordability and proximity to hospitals
- Uvita & Ojochal – for a relaxed coastal lifestyle with jungle views and ocean breezes
- Tamarindo – for retirees seeking a livelier beach town with more amenities
Many retirees also appreciate the southern zone for its slower pace of life, scenic beauty, and strong community feel.
Where do English-speaking expats live in Costa Rica?
English-speaking expats are well-represented throughout the country, but especially in areas that cater to international residents. These include:
- Uvita and Ojochal – both have active expat communities and many local businesses that speak English
- Tamarindo and Nosara – popular beach towns in Guanacaste with surf culture and wellness retreats
- Escazú and Santa Ana – upscale suburbs near San José with excellent healthcare and international schools
- Atenas and Grecia – known for their Central Valley expat populations and temperate climate
These towns offer a welcoming environment where English is commonly spoken, making daily life smoother for newcomers.
Where do most expats settle in Costa Rica?
Most expats settle in regions that offer a mix of lifestyle perks and modern conveniences. These include:
- Costa Ballena (Uvita, Ojochal, Dominical) – for natural beauty, quiet surroundings, and growing infrastructure
- Guanacaste Province (Tamarindo, Nosara, Playa Flamingo) – for sun, surf, and established expat hubs
- Central Valley (Atenas, Grecia, San Ramón) – for access to the capital, cooler climate, and affordability
Expats often prioritize locations with healthcare, reliable internet, good schools, and a sense of community, features you’ll find in these popular areas.
Is Costa Rica considered safe for tourists?
Yes, Costa Rica is generally considered one of the safest countries in Central America for tourists. While petty theft can occur in tourist hotspots, violent crime is rare, especially in smaller towns and rural regions. Travelers are encouraged to take normal precautions, avoid leaving valuables unattended, lock doors, and stay aware of their surroundings. Tourist-friendly areas like Uvita, Ojochal, Tamarindo, and Arenal are especially known for their welcoming and safe environments.
Where is the safest place to retire in Costa Rica?
The safest places to retire in Costa Rica are typically mid-sized towns with strong communities and lower crime rates. Ojochal stands out as one of the safest retirement destinations thanks to its community watch programs, quiet lifestyle, and low crime levels. Atenas and Grecia in the Central Valley are also very safe, offering walkable streets, friendly neighbors, and access to good medical care. Coastal towns like Uvita and Nosara also rank highly for safety, especially in gated communities or established neighborhoods.
Where is the safest and cheapest place to live in Costa Rica?
If you’re looking for both safety and affordability, consider Grecia, San Ramón, or Pérez Zeledón. These towns in the Central Valley offer low living costs, good infrastructure, and access to public healthcare. For coastal living, Ojochal and the outskirts of Uvita provide affordable land and homes in peaceful settings, though infrastructure may vary by neighborhood. Keep in mind that safety also depends on your personal habits, neighbors, and property location, working with a knowledgeable local agency like Ballena Properties is key to making a smart investment.
Where is the healthiest place to live in Costa Rica?
Costa Rica is home to some of the healthiest environments in the world. The Nicoya Peninsula is one of the world’s five “Blue Zones,” where people regularly live to 100 thanks to diet, community, and active lifestyles. However, health isn’t limited to one region. Uvita, Ojochal, and Dominical promote healthy living through clean air, fresh local produce, outdoor activities, and wellness-focused communities. Similarly, mountain towns like Atenas and Grecia offer cooler climates and access to healthcare, important for long-term wellness.
Trust Ballena Properties with Your Real Estate Search
Whether you’re searching for a safe place to retire, a peaceful jungle escape, or a vibrant beach town with expat amenities, Ballena Properties is here to help. We specialize in real estate across Uvita, Ojochal, Dominical, and the broader Costa Ballena region. Our experienced, bilingual team offers honest advice, expert local knowledge, and personalized service to help you find the best place to live in Costa Rica, based on your goals, lifestyle, and budget.
Let us guide you to your perfect home in paradise. Reach out to Ballena Properties today and start your Costa Rica journey with confidence. Check out our Costa Rica real estate for sale!
