10 Interesting Facts About Costa Rica

Thinking about moving to Costa Rica? You’re not alone. Thousands of expats have fallen in love with the country’s tropical charm, laid-back lifestyle, and natural beauty. But there’s more to Costa Rica than beaches and sunshine.

Here are 10 interesting (and sometimes surprising) facts about Costa Rica that will help you understand why it’s such a special place to live, visit, or invest in real estate.

1. Costa Rica Has No Army

That’s right — Costa Rica abolished its military in 1948 and redirected the budget to education and healthcare. It’s now one of the most peaceful and politically stable countries in Latin America.

2. Pura Vida Is More Than a Phrase

“Pura Vida” means “pure life,” but it’s also a way of life. Costa Ricans use it as a greeting, farewell, and a reminder to take it easy and enjoy the moment.

3. Costa Rica Has Over 500,000 Species of Wildlife

Despite being smaller than West Virginia, Costa Rica is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world. Expect to see monkeys, toucans, sloths, iguanas, and butterflies — sometimes right in your backyard.

4. 25% of the Country Is Protected Land

Costa Rica takes conservation seriously. National parks and wildlife reserves cover about one-quarter of the country’s land — one of the highest percentages in the world.

5. You Can Watch the Sunrise and Sunset on the Same Day

Costa Rica is nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. In some areas, you can catch the sunrise on the east coast and drive to the west to watch the sunset — all in one day.

6. Costa Rica Is One of the Happiest Countries on Earth

Thanks to its strong healthcare system, education, environmental protection, and relaxed lifestyle, Costa Rica regularly ranks in the top 10 happiest countries in the world.

7. Expats Love It Here — and You Might Too

From beach towns like Playas del Coco and Tamarindo to mountain communities in Atenas and San Ramón, Costa Rica has become a magnet for expats, retirees, and digital nomads.

8. Healthcare Is High-Quality and Affordable

Costa Rica offers both public and private healthcare systems — and both are widely used by locals and foreigners. The country’s universal healthcare (Caja) is well-respected across Latin America.

9. Costa Rica Uses Renewable Energy — A Lot

Around 99% of Costa Rica’s electricity comes from renewable sources like hydropower, wind, and solar. If you’re eco-conscious, living here might just fit your values.

10. You Don’t Need to Be Fluent in Spanish to Live Here

While Spanish is the official language, English is widely spoken in popular expat areas and beach towns. Many real estate agents, doctors, and local business owners speak both. Still, learning a little Spanish will go a long way.

Ready to Discover Costa Rica for Yourself?

From sloths and sunsets to solar power and serenity, Costa Rica offers a one-of-a-kind lifestyle that attracts people from all over the world.

If you’re thinking about buying property in Costa Rica, we’re here to help. Whether you want a beachfront condo, a mountain escape, or an income-generating vacation rental — we’ll help you find your piece of Pura Vida.

👉 Contact us today to start your Costa Rica journey.