Cost of Living for Retirees in Costa Rica

Teresita Alfaro
Aug 7
4 min read

Updated: Aug 30

How to Save Money Without Sacrificing Comfort — Real Stories from Real Expats

Cost of Living for Retirees in Costa Rica: 20 Proven Strategies to Save

When Richard and his wife Anna moved to Costa Rica from Oregon five years ago, they expected the “Pura Vida” life to be slower, sunnier, and simpler. What they didn’t expect was how different everyday expenses could be — or how easy it would be to overpay without even realizing it.

“I was paying over ₡3,000 for a block of cheese until our neighbor showed us this little market two blocks away where the same cheese was ₡1,900,” laughs Richard. “That’s when we realized we needed to learn how locals actually live.”

They’re not alone. Many expats arrive in Costa Rica with retirement dreams, only to discover that smart living here takes a little local know-how. But here’s the good news: once you understand how things work, you can live comfortably — even luxuriously — on a modest budget.

Let’s walk through what that actually looks like.

The Card That Changes Everything After 65

One of the first things we recommend to our clients is applying for the Tarjeta Ciudadano de Oro — Costa Rica’s golden ticket for seniors. With this card, anyone over 65 gets free bus rides under 25 km, big discounts on longer routes, and even free entrance to most museums on designated days.

“I use it at least four times a week,” says Evelyn, a retired librarian from Canada. “I don’t even need a second car anymore. Between the Golden Card and the bus pass, I’m saving thousands a year.”

If you’ve ever stood in line at a bank or government office, you’ll also appreciate this: seniors with this card go to the front of the line.

Shopping Like a Tico

Costa Ricans don’t shop in just one place — and if you want to save money, neither should you.

At the feria del agricultor, tomatoes that cost ₡2,600 at the supermarket might go for ₡1,800. Avocados drop from ₡1,800 to ₡1,100. And the atmosphere? “It’s half shopping, half social club,” laughs George, a client who now gets most of his produce delivered thanks to our weekly concierge farm box.

“I used to dread grocery shopping. Now I open my front door every Thursday and there’s this beautiful basket of papayas, tomatoes, mangoes... everything I need, no taxi or sweat involved.”

Pharmacies are another great opportunity to save. Farmavalue, for example, offers 10% off on medications every Wednesday and Sunday, and 5% the rest of the week, just by showing your ID. They even provide a discount for shopping beyond ₡25,000 — something we help clients track to get the most value.

Why Evelyn Hardly Uses Her Air Conditioner Anymore

Utilities in Costa Rica can surprise you, especially if you run your A/C day and night. Evelyn, the same client with the bus card, used to do just that — until she opened her power bill one month and gasped.

“I was spending more on electricity than I did back in Toronto,” she told us. “Now I open the windows, use fans, and only turn the A/C on when my daughter visits.”

For those who own or rent, switching to ICE’s or CoopeGuanacaste “Tarifa Residencial Horaria” makes a huge difference too. Run your laundry machines after 8 p.m. and you could cut your electricity bill by 20%. It’s the kind of quiet savings that stack up fast.

See more Tarifa Residencial Horaria

Rethinking the Car

Owning a car in Costa Rica gives you freedom — but it also comes with headaches: maintenance, inspections, insurance, and rising fuel prices.

Our clients often tell us that once they discover the combination of the Golden Card and a reliable concierge with trusted drivers, the second car becomes unnecessary. “It’s honestly a relief,” said Frank, who now uses our concierge to arrange all his medical visits and airport runs.

You Deserve to Enjoy

One of the most overlooked strategies for reducing cost of living for retirees in Costa Rica is using your savings on things that truly improve your life. We’ve had clients who, after cutting electricity costs or canceling a second vehicle, redirect that money toward a weekly housekeeper or private yoga sessions in their garden.

“It’s not about being cheap,” said Silvia, another client we help. “It’s about being smart, so you can keep saying yes to the things that really matter.”

Cost of Living for Retirees in Costa Rica: 20 Proven Strategies to Save

We’ve collected 20 proven ways to live better for less in Costa Rica — from housing to healthcare, food to fun.

Click belot to get a practical, real-world advice document — the kind that comes from actually living here- for saving strategies.

Final Word: The Help You Didn’t Know You Needed

At Expat Senior Life Management & Support, we don’t just give advice — we do the legwork. Whether you need your veggies delivered, your bills checked, your doctor appointment confirmed, or your new lease negotiated, we’re by your side.