The reporter takes the mic and sums up the scene. Costa Rica, long known for its charm and stability, keeps drawing expats and digital nomads to its beaches and mountain towns. In the 2026 Expat Index, the country lands 8th out of 62, reflecting steady progress and the ongoing appeal of its easygoing lifestyle.
The story on the ground, however, has shifted slightly. The homicide rate now stands at 16.1 per 100,000, driven mainly by drug-trafficking disputes along key transit routes in Limón and Puntarenas. Most violent incidents stay confined to those areas, while the Central Valley and coastal expat zones like Guanacaste remain mostly calm. Petty theft is the main concern in city centers and tourist hot spots.
Locals know that security starts with location. Areas such as Escazú, Santa Ana, and Atenas enjoy private patrols and lower crime rates. Simple habits, locking up, using ride-hailing apps, and connecting with neighbors, make a difference.
President Laura Fernández has pledged a tougher stance on organized crime, taking cues from regional crackdowns. Meanwhile, Costa Rica still holds its reputation for strong institutions, a peaceful spirit, and that familiar promise of “pura vida.”
My Take…
Costa Rica’s still doing its laid‑back “pura vida” thing, surfboards, smoothies, and suspiciously happy retirees. The 2026 Expat Index ranks it 8th out of 62, proof that sunshine and stable Wi‑Fi are still a hot combo. Problem is, paradise has a few cracks. The homicide rate’s up to 16.1 per 100,000, thanks to the usual drug routes doing their messy business along Limón and Puntarenas.
Click on the link below for the full article:
https://expatmoney.com/blog/how-safe-is-costa-rica
