Moving to Escazu, Costa Rica

"ESCAZU!!! Even our local Tico friends (who were all educated in the states) and have lived all over CR would agree. CR is booming right now, at least for professionals in law, medicine, computer science/network administration, & architecture/engineering. Our best friend here has to hire software engineers from India because CR workers are so expensive and doing so well here. This is just our opinion of course. For example, one of our son's opinions when he visits us in Escazu is disgust. He thinks why leave the states to just live in an expensive, English speaking, mini-California suburb. He leaves as quickly as he can to stay in the rural & beach areas (he luckily speaks fluent Spanish) to escape our lifestyle. He could never afford to live in Escazu as a musician/artist. Final note and a plug for Outlier Legal and the founder attorney Rafael Valverde who went to law school in the states. Do not make the move without reading his website articles at the very least & he and his team provided enormous support (and still do) in dealing with the puzzling and very unpredictable bureaucracy that is CR," said one expat in Escazu.

"Escazu is a city within the San Jose metropolitan area in Costa Rica. As with any move, it is important to research the area before making the commitment. Escazu is known for its upscale dining and shopping, luxurious nightlife, and a variety of service offerings. You should familiarize yourself with the public transportation system including buses, trolleys, and taxis. The cost of living in Escazu is higher than other areas of Costa Rica, so you should research local housing and rental costs and be aware that it may be more difficult to find more affordable housing. Healthcare can be costly in Costa Rica, so make sure you have adequate insurance for any medical needs. Learning some Spanish is recommended, but many people in Escazu speak English and getting around should not be an issue. Escazu is a wonderful place to live, and with proper planning and research it can be a great option for a new home," said one expat who made the move to Escazu.

"We spent 4 years staying for short time in a number of areas. We recognize CA prices are not reflective of Florida or Texas prices. Adjust accordingly. 3 choices: The beach areas: Ridiculously hot & damp; humid so A/C runs non-stop, Where as in Escazu we rarely need it as the temperatures in the Central Valley at 4,000 feet rarely go above 80 or below 63. Rarely use A/C but if we do electricity is crazy cheap in CR unlike CA. The water is great here too, No need anywhere in CR for bottled water like CA. We still love to visit the beach which is only 2 hours away (Pacific side) but just not live there. Central Valley: 3 choices Heredia (nice but a little too rural), Santa Anna (a little too hot & too small, (Although the golf course is amazing there!), and the best in our mind Escazu. The perfect location in Escazu is anywhere close to the Costa Rica Country Club (no we could never afford to belong). Five years ago, we stayed in La Sabana (loved it) first as our home base and after many stays all around CR returned and bought a beautiful condo with high security in Escazu. The cost was 20% of what our condo was in San Diego and 4 times the size! We can walk (or a truly short drive) to so many restaurants, large supermarkets, shops and even two great movie theatres showing films in English! Food was a big worry, yet in Escazu we can buy the same foods we enjoy in the states (and lots of great Italian restaurants!). And virtually no mosquitoes at this elevation unlike the beaches! Also, best hospital in central America only 2 miles away (CIMA, JCHO accredited, many English-speaking docs). Ditto for dentistry. All much cheaper than the states. If you do not know any Spanish (like us) and now retired in your late 60’s, learning a new language can be stressful, Hence Escazu. Our culture shock has been minimal which has been a big relief, but we like the challenges of learning Spanish, & have learned the patience it takes (Tico Time) like spending 3 hours in a bank just to get a new debit card, which stopped working for some unknown reason after a month, needing an attorney to buy a car, etc. But some things are very fast like walking 3 blocks to our internet/TV provider (by the way great hi-speed) and getting service sent to our condo, multiple times, within the hour! And everyone is soooo happy and helpful! The politest most respectful drivers we have ever seen. We have traveled all over the world and have never experienced such absolute courtesy on such a grand scale. Certainly not in the states. And we have made a number of Tico professional friends here, been to their homes (very welcoming) and they have been nothing but helpful, sincere and trustworthy. They truly are the happiest people in the world! By the way we have spent a lot of time in Mexico (my brother lives there) and that is a dangerous unpredictable place compared to CR, but certainly cheaper as is Belize (truly scary)," remarked one expat who made the move to Escazu.

"There are a variety of rental accommodation options available in Escazú. You can browse online real estate sites, such as Encuentra24, Casaideas, or Piso21, where you can view listings and contact landlords directly. Additionally, there are a number of property management companies who can help you in your search, such as Amor Inmobiliaria and Global Real Estate," explained one expat living in Escazu, Costa Rica.

"Generally, expat homes and apartments in Escazu are quite modern and luxurious, with modern amenities that offer a high level of comfort. They are typically situated in upscale residential complex areas, with access to private pools, shopping centers, restaurants, and other attractions. They are also often gated communities with guards and surveillance systems for added security. The architecture and décor of the homes and apartments is generally quite modern and stylish, from contemporary to the Mediterranean style. Additionally, many expat homes and apartments typically offer stunning views of the surrounding Central Valley and Escazu mountains," remarked one expat in Escazu, Costa Rica.

"Condo with high security. However we never feel fearful walking at night to our favorite restaurants or store as their are guards everywhere. This is true pretty much everywhere we have been in CR. We have always felt very safe (unlike dealing we the herds of homeless drug addicts in CA)," said one expat in Escazu.

"The cost of housing in Escazu can vary depending on its proximity to the city center and its size, amenities and condition. Generally, the cost of renting a two-bedroom apartment in Escazu ranges from $800 to $1,500 a month, while purchasing a two-bedroom apartment costs around $200,000 to $400,000," explained one expat living in Escazu, Costa Rica.

"Much much lower both in terms of cost of buying and maintenance (e.g. electricity, internet much cheaper, water, etc.). Also housekeeper, for example is only 3,000 colones an hour ($4.67)! Ridiculous! We doubled her "salary" from the start. And monthly condominium fee are only $ 400/month vs. $800-1200/month in CA. Wow," said one expat in Escazu.

"We have bought and sold several properties in Costa Rica. We had the help of an attorney and it was simple. Properties are bought in the name of corporations. One thing to remember though, it is always easy to buy, but not always easy to sell. The market is SLOW...nothing like the fast turning market in the US. Most people pay cash as financing is a nightmare," said one expat in Escazu.

"The decision to buy or rent a home in Escazu depends on a variety of factors including the individual's lifestyle, budget and long-term goals. It may be better to rent if you plan to live in the area for a short time, or if you are not financially well-off. On the other hand, if you have enough funds and plan to live in the area for a long time, buying a home in Escazu may be the better option. Additionally, you should also research the local housing market to determine whether buying or renting is more economical," said one expat who made the move to Escazu.

"Clothing, toiletries, kitchen supplies, bedding and linens, furniture, books, electronics, cleaning supplies, tools, documents (birth certificate, passport, etc.), identification and proof of address, medications, pet supplies (if applicable)," remarked one expat who made the move to Escazu.

"Nothing as we travel back to the US at least 4 times a year, but bring little back to CR. One of the amazing good surprises is that CR has pretty much everything that we can get in the US, for the same price of less (unlike what you read in the forums). That is why we decided against moving our car, furniture, etc. and instead buying here and bringing 4 large suitcases per month of personal items from the US. for a year (for free if you fly Southwest). The caveat is we are use to CA costal prices (now $6 a gallon for gas & 900-1000 per square foot to obtain a dwelling). Even our replacement used car here was the almost exact price as it would have been at home. (understand used car prices have rocketed higher in the states and COVID hit families hard here in CR - hence a great deal)," explained one expat living in Escazu, Costa Rica.

"When visiting Escazu, it is important to dress respectfully and maintain polite and friendly behaviour when interacting with locals. It is also considered impolite to mention the country’s past civil wars or even to make joke about them. Moreover, be careful with your body language as a sign of disrespect might be considered rude. Another thing to be mindful of is to avoid overt public displays of affection as this might be seen as inappropriate in the conservative society. It is also important to maintain a normal speaking volume when talking since raising your voice may be regarded as aggressive. Lastly, do not take photographs of people without their permission, especially of Indigenous people," replied a member in Escazu.

"Escazu is a popular destination for expats due to its close proximity to San Jose, its vibrant culture, and its stunning natural beauty. The city offers a variety of activities and attractions, from shopping and dining to outdoor activities such as hiking and bird watching. The cost of living is relatively low compared to other countries, making it an attractive option for those looking to relocate. Additionally, the country is known for its friendly people and welcoming atmosphere, making it a great place to settle down and start a new life," offered one expat living in Escazu.

"Escazu is home to a variety of healthcare services. The area is home to several private hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that offer a range of services, from general medical care to specialized treatments. Many of these facilities are equipped with the latest technology and offer a wide range of services, including emergency care, laboratory tests, imaging, and surgery. Additionally, Escazu is home to a number of pharmacies, providing access to medications and other health-related products. The area also has a number of health centers and clinics that provide primary care services, such as vaccinations, physicals, and health screenings. Finally, Escazu is home to a number of specialists, such as cardiologists, neurologists, and oncologists, who provide specialized care to patients," stated one expat who made the move to Escazu.

"Escazu (and Hospital CIMA) is the # 2 reason why we moved her. #1 is the PERFECT weather," wrote one expat living in Escazu.

"Escazu offers a wide range of medical services for both locals and visitors. The country has a well-developed healthcare system, with a variety of public and private hospitals and clinics providing quality care. Many of the private hospitals and clinics offer specialized services, such as cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics. Additionally, there are a number of pharmacies and medical supply stores in the area. English-speaking doctors and nurses are available in many of the medical facilities, making it easier for visitors to receive the care they need," commented one expat living in Escazu.