Is it better to live in Belize or Costa Rica?

Which is a better place to live Costa Rica or Belize?

Cheaper In Belize



You can live well in Costa Rica for less than at home, but it is no longer a bargain here. Compared with Belize, Costa Rica is actually expensive. You can get by in Costa Rica spending only a little. But you won’t be able to live the kind of retirement that you could in Belize.

What are the disadvantages of living in Belize?

4 Drawbacks of Living in Belize — Cons

  • Crime. Belize has one of the highest murder rates in the world at 34 murders per 100K population. …
  • Poverty. Belize is the 36th most impoverished country in the world, with 41% of its population living below the poverty line. …
  • Cost of Gas and Imports. …
  • Healthcare.


Is moving to Belize a good idea?

Belize is a very welcoming country for foreigners, especially those who are done working, and all they want is to enjoy life in a quiet and tranquil atmosphere. The Qualified Retirement Program is the initiative that allows people who are 45 years and above to settle in the country effortlessly.

How much money do I need to retire in Belize?

The average income in Belize is lower than neighboring Caribbean countries like the Bahamas, but the laid-back approach to life, combined with lower costs, makes it an excellent place to retire. When it comes to getting a sense for the overall costs of retiring in Belize, Investopedia estimate around $1,700 per month.

What is the safest Central American country to live?

Costa Rica

1. Costa Rica. Costa Rica is generally regarded as the safest Central America countires. To top it off, Costa Rica is an absolutely stunning country with friendly people, unforgettable cloud forests, and beautiful beaches.

Is Costa Rica the happiest place to live?

Whereas it’s the complete contrary. Our tourism has grown precisely because of this.” As a result, Costa Rica is the happiest and most sustainable country on Earth, according to the Happy Planet Index (HPI).

What is the biggest problem in Belize?

Some of the most pressing issues that currently challenge Belize institutions include illegal harvesting of flora and fauna, illegal hunting, illegal logging, looting of the extensive cave system, and the increase in the introduction of invasive species.

Do you have to pay US taxes if you live in Belize?

Filing US taxes is a requirement for every American, no matter where you live. You must report your worldwide income to the IRS, which includes any income earned in Belize, the US or anywhere in the world.

Can I get my Social Security if I move to Belize?

Social Security is available for any U.S. citizen, regardless of the country you’re currently living in. However, as an expat, you may need to fill out a questionnaire to ensure you’re still eligible for benefits.

Why is everyone moving to Belize?

Proximity to North America



Many expats are drawn to Belize’s tropical climate, beautiful fauna and flora, multiculturalism, ancient history, and political stability. There’s something for everyone—beaches, lagoons, rivers, islands and jungles. The quality of life is high and the cost of living is low.

Can I live permanently in Belize?

Belize offers two types of Residence status, Permanent Residence and Temporary Residence. Permanent Residence is for persons who want to make Belize their home and will be staying in country for long period of time.

Where do most expats live in Belize?

Ambergris Caye

The most popular landing spots for expats in Belize are Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker; the Placencia peninsula; the Corozal district; and the Cayo Region. Some expats are now gravitating as far south as the Toledo District, although you’ll find fewer First World amenities there.

Which is better to live Costa Rica or Panama?

For those expats who require a large selection of goods at great prices, Panama will likely be a better fit. But if you value living a high-quality lifestyle in safe, peaceful, and ecologically beautiful communities, we highly recommend you choose Costa Rica.

What US city has the best quality of life?

The best places to live in the U.S. for quality of life are:

  • San Jose, California.
  • Naples, Florida.
  • Trenton, New Jersey.
  • Madison, Wisconsin.
  • Boston.
  • Fort Collins, Colorado.
  • Reno, Nevada.
  • Portland, Maine.

What is the happiest country in Central America?

Costa Rica the happiest Latin American country, World Happiness Report says :

  • Nature.
  • Travel & Tourism. Costa Rica Flight Tracker.
  • Lifestyle.
  • Classifieds. General. Real Estate – FSBO. Real Estate Properties. Advertise.


Where is the best and safest place to live in Costa Rica?

Some call Escazu Costa Rica’s Beverly Hills since it is home to many wealthy American and European expats. It’s probably the safest place to live in Costa Rica and has become a major hub for foreigners. It has all the charm of Costa Rica with all of the conveniences of the U.S.

Is Belize a good country to retire in?

Belize has one of the world’s best retiree programs. Through the Qualified Retired Persons (QRP) Program, the government gives qualified retirees an exemption from taxes on all income derived from sources outside Belize, whether such income is earned or passive, and whether or not it is remitted to Belize.

How much do you need to live comfortably in Belize?

And though Belize’s cost of living is comparably lower than that of the U.S., its costs vary per area. However, you may very well be able to survive with a monthly budget between $1,200 and $1,500. But housing and food will play a significant role in your monthly bill. Below, we take a closer look at those options.

How much money do you need to live comfortably in Costa Rica?

Affordable Day-to-Day Living in Costa Rica



A single person can live on between $1,600 and $2,000 a month. Some single people scrape by on considerably less, and others spend hundreds of dollars more, depending on their lifestyle. Some retired couples live well on $2,000 per month and even better on $2,500 to $3,000.

What is the average price of a house in Costa Rica?

Cost Comparison Chart:

United States v/s Costa Rica United States Average ($) Costa Rica Average ($)
Housing (comparable 3 bedroom, 2 bath) $1000-3000 $500-1200
Gasoline (per gallon of regular) $3.00 $5.00
ADSL Internet monthly (1024/512 kb/sec) $34.95 $28.25
Home Phone Service (basic monthly fee) $29.95 $7.00

Can I collect my Social Security if I live in Costa Rica?

If you are a U.S. citizen and qualify for Social Security retirement, family, survivor or disability benefits, you can receive your payments while living in most other countries.