Moving to Ojochal, Costa Rica
Last updated on Apr 11, 2024
Summary: Expats move to Ojochal, Costa Rica for its stunning natural beauty, its laid-back lifestyle, and its close proximity to the beach. The area is known for its lush rainforest, stunning waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. Expats also appreciate the friendly locals, the low cost of living, and the abundance of outdoor activities. With its stunning sunsets, delicious local cuisine, and vibrant culture, Ojochal is an ideal destination for those looking to experience the best of Costa Rica.
What do I need to know before moving to Ojochal?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Ojochal, they said:
"Ojochal is a small town located in the southern Pacific region of Costa Rica. It is known for its lush tropical rainforest, stunning beaches, and friendly locals. Expats should be aware that the cost of living in Ojochal is higher than in other parts of Costa Rica, and that the town is quite remote. It is important to research the local laws and regulations before moving to Ojochal, as well as the availability of medical care and other services. Additionally, expats should be aware that the local language is Spanish, and it is helpful to learn some basic Spanish before moving to Ojochal," replied a member in Ojochal.
How do I find a place to live in Ojochal?
We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"One way to find a place to live in Ojochal is to search online for rental listings. There are many websites that offer listings for long-term and short-term rentals in the area. Additionally, you can contact local real estate agents who specialize in the area to help you find a place to live. You can also ask around in the community to see if anyone knows of any available rentals. Finally, you can look for "For Rent" signs in the area," said one expat in Ojochal.
What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Ojochal?
"Expat homes and apartments in Ojochal are typically spacious and comfortable, with large windows that let in plenty of natural light and offer stunning views of the surrounding jungle and ocean. Many homes and apartments feature modern amenities such as air conditioning, high-speed internet, and satellite TV. Expats in Ojochal also enjoy access to a variety of outdoor activities, such as swimming, fishing, and hiking, as well as a wide range of restaurants and bars," said one expat who made the move to Ojochal.
What is the average cost of housing in Ojochal?
If you are thinking about moving to Ojochal, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"The cost of housing in Ojochal varies depending on the size and location of the property. Generally, the average cost of a two-bedroom home in Ojochal is between $100,000 and $200,000, while larger homes can cost up to $500,000. Prices for rental properties in the area range from $500 to $2,000 per month," replied a member in Ojochal.
Should I buy or rent a home in Ojochal?
If you have not spent a lot of time in Ojochal, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:
"Buying a home in Ojochal can be a great investment. The area is known for its stunning natural beauty, and the cost of living is relatively low. The local real estate market is also quite stable, so you can expect your investment to appreciate over time. Renting a home in Ojochal can also be a great option, as it allows you to enjoy the area without the commitment of a long-term purchase. You can also take advantage of the local rental market, which is often quite affordable. Ultimately, the decision of whether to buy or rent a home in Ojochal will depend on your individual needs and preferences," said one expat who made the move to Ojochal.
What should I pack when moving to Ojochal?
We asked people living in Ojochal to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:
"When moving to Ojochal, it is important to pack items that will help you adjust to the climate and lifestyle. Bring lightweight, breathable clothing that is suitable for the tropical climate. Sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat are also essential for protection from the sun and bugs. Additionally, it is important to bring any necessary medications, as well as a first aid kit. To make the transition smoother, it is also a good idea to bring items that will make your new home feel more comfortable, such as pictures, books, and other personal items," explained one expat living in Ojochal, Costa Rica.
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RelocateNow Costa Rica's clients who run through the RelocateNow Program get quick results in formulating and successfully executing our laid out plan for moving to Costa Rica! Expert consulting for future expats in Costa Rica who wish to fast track the process of their move by receiving the specialized information they need, trustworthy connections within the country, and high level 1:1 support through the entire process.
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RelocateNow Costa Rica's clients who run through the RelocateNow Program get quick results in formulating and successfully executing our laid out plan for moving to Costa Rica! Expert consulting for future expats in Costa Rica who wish to fast track the process of their move by receiving the specialized information they need, trustworthy connections within the country, and high level 1:1 support through the entire process.
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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Ojochal?
We asked people in Ojochal if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:
"It is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions when visiting Ojochal. It is important to dress modestly and to avoid public displays of affection. It is also important to be aware of the local language and to avoid speaking loudly or using offensive language. Additionally, it is important to be respectful of the local environment and to avoid littering or damaging the natural environment. Finally, it is important to be aware of local customs and to avoid offending anyone by making jokes or comments about their culture," said one expat in Ojochal.
Why do people move to Ojochal?
When we asked people why foreigners move to Ojochal, they responded:
"Ojochal is a popular destination for expats due to its stunning natural beauty, laid-back lifestyle, and affordable cost of living. The area is known for its lush rainforest, stunning beaches, and diverse wildlife. Expats are also drawn to Ojochal for its friendly locals, excellent healthcare system, and low crime rate. Additionally, the area offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, fishing, and surfing, as well as a vibrant nightlife and cultural scene. With its stunning scenery, relaxed atmosphere, and low cost of living, Ojochal is an attractive destination for expats looking for a new home," commented one expat living in Ojochal.
"Ojochal is a well known international residential community, not a tourist town. It has a larger percentage of foreigners than nearly any other town in Costa Rica. It is often referred to as "the Culinary Capital of Costa Rica" since many expats have opened restaurants there offering food from their home countries. Ojochal was the starting point of the Costa Ballena Women's Network, now with hundreds of members. There's a large US, Canadian and French contingent there, but you can also find residents from every continent. We now have an Indonesian restaurant, 2 French bakeries -- and Italian, Mexican, French, Thai, Tico and World cuisine. There's one of the most extensive collections of cooking ingredients of any grocery store anywhere in Costa Rica, in fact if you like to cook, this is the place to be. The little supermarket in Ojochal sells everything from Caviar to Curry, 5 kinds of Capers, Spring roll wrappers, Nori, Pickled ginger, polenta, cous cous and everything else you could think of. The expat community has been thriving for over 25 years. The crime rate is also lower than most other areas since it is a residential community and not a tourist town. It is also located south of the passport control checkpoint on the Baru River, criminals north of this point don't want to cross that bridge. The beaches in this area are stunning: Playa Tortuga, Playa Ballena, Playa Ventanas. Plus, it is is also where the mouth of the longest navigable river in all of Costa Rica reaches the ocean (the Terraba River). There are at least 10 phases of development for expats in Ojochal and lots of activities for both expats and Ticos. The neighborhood community interacts more with Ticos than in many other parts of Costa Rica," commented one expat who moved to Ojochal, Costa Rica.
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Costa Rica Legal Residency is an articulately bi-lingual boutique firm with 15 + years of successful experience and exclusive focus on Costa Rica Temporary and Permanent Residency, Renewals, Digital Nomad, and Citizenship. Located minutes from the Department of Immigration.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
Costa Rica Legal Residency is an articulately bi-lingual boutique firm with 15 + years of successful experience and exclusive focus on Costa Rica Temporary and Permanent Residency, Renewals, Digital Nomad, and Citizenship. Located minutes from the Department of Immigration.
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Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
How are healthcare services Ojochal?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Ojochal, they replied:
"Ojochal offers a variety of healthcare services to its residents and visitors. The local clinic, Clinica Ojochal, provides basic medical care and emergency services. The clinic is staffed by a team of experienced doctors and nurses who are available to provide medical advice and treatment. Additionally, the clinic offers a range of preventive health services, such as vaccinations and health screenings. For more specialized care, there are several private hospitals and clinics in the area that offer a variety of services, including cardiology, orthopedics, and obstetrics. Additionally, there are several pharmacies in the area that provide prescription medications and over-the-counter remedies," commented one expat who moved to Ojochal.
What are medical services in Ojochal like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Ojochal, they replied:
"Ojochal offers a variety of medical services for both locals and visitors. The area is home to several private clinics and hospitals, as well as a number of pharmacies. The medical staff in Ojochal are highly trained and experienced, providing quality care to patients. Additionally, the area is served by a number of mobile medical units, which provide medical services to remote areas. In addition to traditional medical services, Ojochal also offers alternative treatments such as acupuncture, massage therapy, and herbal remedies," remarked one expat in Ojochal.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Costa Rica Legal Residency is a bi-lingual boutique firm with 15 + years of successful experience on Residency, Renewals, Digital Nomad, and Citizenship.
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Costa Rica Legal Residency is a bi-lingual boutique firm with 15 + years of successful experience on Residency, Renewals, Digital Nomad, and Citizenship.
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