Guanacaste, Costa Rica

Guanacaste's population of 412,808 may seem enticing, but the reality is a heavy tax burden and persistent bureaucracy. The province's economic heritage is based on cattle ranching, though that industry is declining. Tourism has emerged as a significant part of the local economy, thanks to the sunny dry season and national parks, but the climate is uniquely hot and dry compared to the rest of Costa Rica. Anyone considering a move to Guanacaste should carefully weigh the trade-offs against their lifestyle priorities.