Costa Rica vs New Zealand
Costa Rica costs roughly 10% less than New Zealand, though New Zealand has significantly faster internet infrastructure, making it one of the more financially compelling destinations for New Zealand expats. Use our tool below to personalize the estimate based on your income and lifestyle.
Costa Rica is approximately 10% less expensive than New Zealand based on cost of living including rent. This makes Costa Rica a more budget-friendly option for expats considering a move.
Costa Rica has a FIRE Score of 56/100, indicating its suitability for financial independence and early retirement. The country's safety index is 45.9, suggesting moderate safety levels.
Recommended profile: Costa Rica is best suited for digital nomads who prioritize experience over savings.
About Costa Rica
Costa Rica works for retirees who want a rubber-stamp visa, not bargain hunters chasing rock-bottom prices. A one-bedroom near the city center runs $903/mo, pushing this above typical Latin America budget destinations. The Pensionado visa only requires $1,000/mo in retirement income, but progressive income tax up to 25% and a clear path to permanent residency mean this is a lifestyle purchase, not a tax play.
$1,153/mo
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About New Zealand
Skip this one if you need a retirement or digital nomad visa to make the move: neither exists here. With no dedicated income requirement pathway and only a 5/10 ease of access score, entry is bureaucratic. It works for high-earners chasing safety (Travel Advisory Level 1) and clean healthcare who can qualify through skilled work or investment routes.
$911/mo
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Living Costs (excl. rent)
Rent Per Month
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Country Details →Battle of Lifestyles
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| Metric | Costa Rica | New Zealand |
|---|---|---|
| Travel Advisory | Level 2: Increased Caution | Level 1: Normal Precautions |
| Quality of Life Index | 129.4 | 192.5 +63.1 |
| Healthcare Index | 64.3 | 68.4 +4.1 |
| Safety Index | 45.9 | 51.8 +5.9 |
| Cost of Living Index | 50.1 +5.2 | 55.3 |
| Living Costs (Single, excl. rent) | $944 +30.5 | $974.5 |
| Living Costs (Family, excl. rent) | $3,504.1 +50.2 | $3,554.3 |
| 1BR Apartment (Center) | $903.45 +211.02 | $1,114.47 |
| 1BR Apartment (Outside) | $642.83 +308.58 | $951.41 |
| 3BR Apartment (Center) | $1,721.95 +28.13 | $1,750.08 |
| 3BR Apartment (Outside) | $1,157.73 +353.74 | $1,511.47 |
| Avg Internet Speed | 212.24 Mbps | 289.07 Mbps +76.8 |
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Income thresholds, fees, processing time and residency paths for Costa Rica and New Zealand, side by side.
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