Buying to Work Remotely in Costa Rica: Top Regions and Infrastructure
Introduction
Since the global pandemic of 2020, remote work has become the new norm for millions of professionals worldwide. With this newfound geographic freedom, many have chosen to relocate to exotic destinations offering exceptional living environments, a high quality of life, and—most importantly—strong digital connectivity. Costa Rica, a gem in Central America, has quickly risen to the top of the list for international remote workers.
Why the growing interest in Costa Rica? The country offers rare political stability in the region, a dynamic economy, pleasant year-round tropical weather, and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability. It also boasts an increasingly robust digital and telecommunications infrastructure, allowing remote workers to settle comfortably in an environment conducive to both productivity and well-being.
The real estate market has also seen a noticeable shift. There’s a growing demand for properties tailored to remote work: homes with fiber optic internet, dedicated workspaces, quiet surroundings, proximity to amenities, and natural beauty. Furthermore, the Costa Rican government has made it easier for foreigners to relocate with special digital nomad visas.
In this article, we’ll dive into the best regions to buy property for remote work in Costa Rica, the existing infrastructure, real estate trends specific to remote workers, and practical tips for a successful relocation. You’ll also find expert quotes, updated data, and real-life examples to provide a comprehensive and current perspective.
Thinking about a tropical fresh start while maintaining your career remotely? Let’s get started.
Main Body
1. Why Costa Rica Appeals to Remote Workers Worldwide
Every year, Costa Rica attracts thousands of remote workers from Europe, North America, and beyond. This popularity is no coincidence. The country has positioned itself as a pioneer of a new, balanced lifestyle model that blends remote work with nature and peace of mind.
First, Costa Rica offers excellent digital connectivity. According to the Speedtest Global Index (2024), the average fixed internet speed in Costa Rica is 112 Mbps—ranking it first in Central America. Many areas, especially in the Central Valley and certain coastal regions, are now covered by fiber optic networks. High-speed internet access has become a decisive factor for remote work-driven property buyers.
Additionally, the country’s political stability and demilitarization (it abolished its army in 1948) make it a peaceful place for long-term living. Costa Rica also ranks among the happiest countries in the world, according to the 2023 World Happiness Report—a major draw for expats seeking a healthy work-life balance.
A big incentive is the digital nomad visa launched in 2021, allowing freelancers and remote employees to live in Costa Rica for up to two years. By 2024, over 15,000 applications had been submitted, according to the Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería.
Take the example of Julie, a graphic designer from France who purchased a villa in Santa Teresa: “In one week, I found a home with a sea-view office and 200 Mbps fiber internet. I’m more productive here than I ever was in Paris.”
International mobility expert Daniel Vargas sums it up: “Costa Rica has become a remote work haven because it offers a unique mix of natural beauty, economic stability, and digital modernity.”
2. Best Regions in Costa Rica for Remote Work
Where you choose to buy in Costa Rica depends on your priorities—be it coastal access, cooler climate, urban vibe, or secluded nature. Here are five standout regions for remote workers.
San José and the Central Valley: The capital and economic hub of Costa Rica, San José offers excellent internet connectivity, coworking spaces, and urban amenities. Nearby cities like Escazú and Santa Ana are favorites among expats for their safety, upscale services, and a wide range of property types.
Tamarindo (Guanacaste): Known for its beaches and laid-back vibe, Tamarindo is a digital nomad hotspot. Many modern homes here include private offices, tropical gardens, and fiber internet. The town also boasts coworking hubs like Selina Cowork and a thriving international community.
Santa Teresa (Puntarenas): This boho-chic beach village attracts young, creative professionals. The real estate market focuses on eco-friendly homes and luxury villas. Though more remote, the region is quickly developing its digital infrastructure.
Puerto Viejo (Limón): On the Caribbean coast, Puerto Viejo offers a relaxed vibe and immersion in nature. It’s less urbanized, appealing to those seeking peace and quiet. However, internet quality can vary by area.
Nosara (Nicoya Peninsula): Known for wellness retreats and yoga culture, Nosara is also famous for its sense of community and preserved natural surroundings. The real estate market here is booming, with many properties now including home offices and even on-site coworking spaces.
In 2024, the Instituto Nacional de Estadística y Censos (INEC) reported that over 7% of foreign real estate purchases in Costa Rica were motivated by remote work needs.
3. Key Infrastructure for a Successful Remote Work Setup
To thrive as a remote professional in Costa Rica, certain infrastructure elements are critical. While the country has made great strides, infrastructure quality still varies by region. Here’s what to look for before making a purchase.
Internet Connectivity: This is your number one priority. Make sure the area is serviced by reliable providers like Kolbi, Tigo, or Liberty. In top-performing regions, fiber optic speeds can reach up to 300 Mbps—ideal for video calls and uploading large files.
Coworking Spaces: These are popping up in popular areas like Tamarindo, Nosara, and Santa Teresa. They offer not only strong Wi-Fi but also networking opportunities. Some new developments even include private coworking lounges, like Nalu Nosara.
Healthcare and Safety: Living and working remotely requires access to reliable healthcare. Costa Rica’s public and private systems are top-tier, with modern clinics available in major cities and most tourist hubs.
Transport and Accessibility: Proximity to an international airport (such as Liberia or San José) is a major plus. Keep in mind, however, that some rural roads can be difficult to navigate during the rainy season.
Energy and Sustainability: Costa Rica generates over 98% of its electricity from renewable sources. Many homes are equipped with solar panels, adding appeal for eco-conscious buyers.
Crespo Agency, a Costa Rica real estate expert, notes in its 2024 report: “The most in-demand developments for remote workers combine strong connectivity, sustainable features, and high quality of life.”
Take Marc and Nina, a Canadian couple who bought in Nosara: “We found a house with an office, solar panels, and 200 Mbps fiber internet. We live and work here without compromising on anything.”
4. Real Estate Trends for Remote Workers in Costa Rica
The profile of international buyers in Costa Rica has evolved significantly since 2020. Investors now prioritize properties that are “remote work ready,” reshaping the market in both design and location.
Rising Demand: In 2024, the Costa Rican Chamber of Real Estate Brokers reported that 38% of property transactions by foreigners were motivated by remote work. The top choices are detached homes with gardens, newly built or renovated properties with designated office space.
New Standards: The most sought-after properties now feature reliable Wi-Fi, dedicated office rooms, sound insulation, and easy access to key services. Developers are incorporating these requirements into new projects.
Eco-friendly and Smart Homes: There’s growing demand for self-sufficient, eco-conscious, and smart homes. Features like home automation, digital security systems, and programmable climate control are especially appealing to tech-savvy remote professionals.
Price Trends and Opportunities: While prices in Nosara or Tamarindo have surged (+15% in 2024), emerging areas like Grecia, Atenas, or Sarchí still offer solid deals—often under $180,000 USD for move-in-ready homes.
Return on Investment: Many buyers split their time between Costa Rica and their home countries, renting their property on Airbnb when away. Well-located homes can yield a gross rental return of 8–12% annually, according to Crespo Agency estimates.
“Remote work is no longer a trend—it’s reshaping Costa Rica’s real estate market,” says Andrés Morales, an analyst at RE/MAX Central America.
5. Practical Tips for Buying Real Estate in Costa Rica
Purchasing property abroad takes careful planning. Here are the key steps to buying in Costa Rica for a successful remote work experience.
1. Define Your Needs Clearly: Consider space, number of rooms, accessibility, internet speed, proximity to an airport, healthcare… make a checklist of your must-haves as a remote worker.
2. Test Several Areas: Rent short-term in different regions that interest you. This will allow you to evaluate the internet speed, local vibe, and available services.
3. Work with a Local Expert: A seasoned agent will guide you through legal procedures (title verification, cadastral checks, technical inspections). Choose a professional accredited by the Costa Rican Chamber of Real Estate Brokers.
4. Test Internet Speeds: Run speed tests at any property you’re seriously considering, especially if you rely on data-heavy apps or platforms.
5. Budget for Home Office Setup: If the house lacks a dedicated office space, you’ll need to invest in furniture and equipment—expect to spend around $3,000 to $6,000 USD.
6. Understand Legal and Tax Aspects: Foreigners can buy property in their name or via a local corporation. Consult a Costa Rican attorney to structure the purchase based on your situation.
While remote work abroad is an exciting adventure, it requires preparation. Once settled, the rewards—both personal and professional—are immense.
Conclusion
Buying property in Costa Rica for remote work is a smart lifestyle and investment decision. The country has adapted its infrastructure, immigration policies, and real estate offerings to meet this new demand. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, salaried remote worker, or digital nomad, you’ll find optimal conditions in Costa Rica to work efficiently while enjoying life.
Regions like Tamarindo, Nosara, and the Central Valley stand out for their connectivity, natural beauty, and warm communities. Thanks to favorable laws and a growing market, investing today in a remote work-ready property can be especially profitable both in the short and long term.
Don’t forget to rely on local experts such as Crespo Agency, who can help secure your purchase and provide tailored guidance. Remote work is not just a trend—it’s a lifestyle revolution. And Costa Rica is one of its most beautiful playgrounds.