Is Costa Rica Safe? (2025 Guide for Travelers & Expats)
- Mark Savoia
- Jul 19
- 2 min read
Quick Answer:
Yes - Costa Rica is generally safe for both travelers and expats, especially compared to other Latin American countries. Like anywhere, safety depends on where you are, how you behave, and being aware of local conditions.
Is Costa Rica Safe to Travel to?
Costa Rica is considered one of the safest countries in Central America for tourists. Millions of people visit each year without issue - including families, solo travelers, and retirees.
The country has:
No military (abolished in 1948)
A stable democracy
High literacy and education levels
Strong healthcare system
Petty theft is the most common crime - keep your valuables secure, especially at beaches, bus stations, and public parking areas.
Is Costa Rica Safe to Live In as an Expat?
Yes - thousands of expats live in Costa Rica full-time and report feeling safe and supported. Popular expat towns like Uvita, Dominical, Atenas, Tamarindo, and Santa Teresa are known for their peaceful, community-driven lifestyles.
Safety depends on:
Your specific location
Your housing setup (e.g. gated vs rural)
Your habits
In most expat communities, break-ins are more likely than violence. Alarm systems, gates, and local watch groups help deter theft.
Safety Tips for Daily Life
Lock your car doors - even in gated communities
Don’t leave anything in plain view in your car
Use official taxis or ride apps like Uber
Drive attentively - local road rules aren’t always followed
Learn basic Spanish - helps avoid misunderstandings
Make friends with neighbors or locals - community matters here
Is Costa Rica Safer Than Other Countries?
Compared to other Central American countries, Costa Rica ranks much higher in safety metrics:
No gangs or cartel violence like in Honduras or El Salvador
Lower violent crime rates than Mexico
Stronger legal system and institutions
It’s often ranked as one of the happiest and most peaceful nations in the world.
Need Help Finding the Safest Places to Live in Costa Rica?
We help North Americans relocate and buy homes in the safest, most expat-friendly areas of Costa Rica.
When you work with us, you also get:
✅ Start to finish relocation assistance
✅ Trusted legal contacts
✅ Honest property guidance
✅ Help integrating into communities with other Expats
Final Thoughts
Yes - Costa Rica is safe for travel, relocation, and full-time living. You still need to be smart, stay aware, and respect the local culture.
If you’re planning a move, the key is knowing where to go, who to trust, and how to set up your life right from the start.
That’s what we help with.
Go to CostaRicaPlaybook.com to get your free copy of the Costa Rica Playbook, The definitive Guide on investing and Relocating to Costa Rica!
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