Costa Rica: A Safe Haven in Latin America and a Prime Destination in Times of Global Conflict

Costa Rica, a small yet captivating Central American country, has long been celebrated for its breathtaking natural beauty, eco-friendly ethos, and stable democracy. But perhaps one of its most compelling features, especially in today’s uncertain global landscape, is its reputation as one of the safest countries in Latin America. This safety factor, combined with its strategic geopolitical neutrality, makes Costa Rica an attractive destination for real estate development and a prime choice for individuals seeking security in times of global instability.

Political Stability and Neutrality

One of the primary reasons Costa Rica stands out as a beacon of safety in Latin America is its long-standing political stability. The country abolished its military in 1948 and has since redirected resources towards education, healthcare, and infrastructure. As a result, Costa Rica boasts one of the highest literacy rates and best healthcare systems in the region. The absence of a military is not just a testament to Costa Rica’s peaceful values but also a clear indication of its commitment to non-violence and diplomatic solutions. This pacifist stance has kept Costa Rica out of global conflicts, making it a haven of peace in an often tumultuous world.

In times of global conflict or unrest, Costa Rica's neutrality and non-alignment with major military blocs make it a less likely target or participant in international disputes. Its emphasis on diplomacy and human rights has earned it a strong reputation within international organizations like the United Nations. For individuals or families looking to relocate during geopolitical tensions, this commitment to peace is a critical factor.

Low Crime Rates Compared to the Region

Safety from a personal security perspective is also an important consideration. While other Latin American countries have struggled with crime, violence, and instability, Costa Rica has managed to maintain comparatively low crime rates. According to international crime indices and safety reports, Costa Rica ranks far better than many of its regional neighbors, with violent crime significantly lower than countries such as Mexico, Brazil, or El Salvador.

For example, Costa Rica’s homicide rate was 11.2 per 100,000 people in 2022 is significantly lower than many other countries in Latin America such as Honduras (36.33) and El Salvador (52.02). This is due, in part, to effective law enforcement and social programs that address the root causes of crime, such as poverty and inequality.

Expats and tourists alike often report feeling safe while living or traveling in Costa Rica, particularly in well-developed areas like San José, Guanacaste, or the Central Valley. The country’s emphasis on community-based policing and citizen involvement in security has also helped to foster a sense of shared responsibility for safety, making it one of the most secure environments in Latin America.

Proactive Disaster Preparedness and Environmental Sustainability

Costa Rica’s forward-thinking policies extend beyond just political stability and safety. The country is a leader in sustainability and disaster preparedness. With the growing threat of climate change and natural disasters becoming more frequent globally, Costa Rica’s emphasis on environmental protection and resilience is notable.

The country is heavily invested in renewable energy, with over 98% of its electricity coming from clean sources, primarily hydroelectric, geothermal, wind, and solar . In terms of disaster management, Costa Rica has well-established systems in place to handle potential threats from earthquakes, hurricanes, and floods. This preparedness, along with its geographical location outside of traditional hurricane zones, ensures that the country remains safer compared to other regions vulnerable to severe weather events.

Strong Economy and Expanding Real Estate Market

Costa Rica’s economic landscape is another reason why it is a prime destination for investment, particularly in real estate. The country has a growing and diverse economy, driven by industries such as tourism, technology, agriculture, and services. Its stable currency and investor-friendly policies make it an attractive location for businesses and individuals alike. The World Bank categorizes Costa Rica as an upper-middle-income country with consistent GDP growth and a stable inflation rate .

The real estate market in Costa Rica is flourishing, particularly in coastal regions like Guanacaste, Puntarenas, and the Nicoya Peninsula. These areas are popular among foreign investors, with property prices increasing by around 5% annually in some regions . Costa Rica offers favorable property laws that allow foreigners to own real estate without restrictions, further adding to its allure as a haven for investors looking for both safety and financial opportunity.

Healthcare and Quality of Life

In times of global conflict or crises, access to quality healthcare becomes a crucial concern. Costa Rica offers a robust healthcare system, often ranked among the best in Latin America. The country’s public healthcare system, known as the Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS), provides affordable and comprehensive medical services to residents and expatriates. According to the World Health Organization, Costa Rica ranks 36th in the world for healthcare quality .

Moreover, private healthcare options are available for those who prefer a faster and more personalized experience, often at costs significantly lower than in the U.S. or Europe.

Costa Rica also consistently ranks high in global quality of life indexes, offering a balance of modern conveniences and a slower, more relaxed pace of life. The country frequently ranks as one of the happiest nations on Earth according to the Happy Planet Index, thanks to its focus on sustainability, high life expectancy (around 80 years - with high possibilities to reach 100 years of age), and social well-being .

Welcoming Culture and Expat Community

Costa Rica’s open and welcoming culture is another key factor that makes it an attractive destination for relocation. Costa Ricans, or “Ticos,” are known for their warm hospitality, and the country has a thriving expat community from around the globe. With over 70,000 U.S. citizens residing in Costa Rica and a growing number of Europeans and Canadians, the expat community offers a strong ever-growing support network .

Sources

Costa Rica Global Association of Realtors - Costa Rica Real Estate Market Trends. Available at: https://www.crgar.com/

Happy Planet Index - Costa Rica Ranks Among Happiest Nations in the World. Available at:http://happyplanetindex.org/countries/costa-rica

International Energy Agency - Costa Rica’s Energy Profile and Renewable Energy Statistics. Available at: https://www.iea.org/countries/costa-rica

U.S. Embassy in Costa Rica - Living in Costa Rica: U.S. Citizen Population. Available at: https://cr.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/living-in-cr/

World Bank (2024) Costa Rica Overview: Economic Growth and Indicators. Available at:https://www.worldbank.org/en/country/costarica/overview

World Health Organization - World Health Rankings: Costa Rica Healthcare Performance. Available at: https://www.who.int/data/gho/data/indicators/indicator-details/GHO/universal-health-coverage-index

World Population Review - Homicide Rate by Country 2022. Available at: https://worldpopulationreview.com/country-rankings/murder-rate-by-country