Living in the Nicoya Blue Zone

Live longer on Costa Rica'swellness coast.

The Nicoya Peninsula is one of the world's five Blue Zones — a longevity hotspot of beach towns, surf, and slow living. Here's everything international buyers need to call it home.

The Nicoya Blue Zone

One of the world's five longevity hotspots

The Nicoya Peninsula is one of only five Blue Zones on Earth — the rare regions, identified by National Geographic explorer Dan Buettner, where people routinely live active, healthy lives well past 90.

For buyers, that longevity is more than a headline. It's a clean-living climate, a slower rhythm, walkable beach towns, and a wellness culture — yoga, fresh food, and the outdoors — that draws international families looking for a second home or a permanent move.

1 of 5
Blue Zones worldwide
90+
Common healthy lifespan
Year-round
Pacific dry-season sun
Pura Vida
The lifestyle buyers move for

Where to Buy

Compare the Nicoya beach towns

Each town on the peninsula has its own character, price point, and buyer fit. Here's how the most sought-after communities stack up.

Vibe
Boho-luxe surf town
Best for
Rental income & lifestyle
Surf
World-class
Wellness
Yoga & wellness hub

Nosara

$$$
Vibe
Eco wellness enclave
Best for
Health-focused families
Surf
Consistent
Wellness
Renowned retreats

Sámara

$$
Vibe
Calm family beach
Best for
Easygoing first move
Surf
Gentle / beginner
Wellness
Relaxed, local
Vibe
Artsy jungle coast
Best for
Nature & character homes
Surf
Pockets nearby
Wellness
Bohemian scene
Vibe
Rugged & exclusive
Best for
Privacy seekers
Surf
Strong, scenic
Wellness
Quiet, upscale

Buying as a Foreigner

Questions buyers ask before moving to Costa Rica

Straight answers on ownership, the transaction process, residency, and the costs of buying property on the Nicoya Peninsula. More in ourfull buyer FAQ.

Can foreigners buy property in Costa Rica?

Yes. Foreign buyers have the same property rights as Costa Ricans for most real estate, including titled beachfront land, homes, and condos. A few zones within the Maritime Zone carry concession restrictions — we help buyers understand the distinction before they commit.

What does the buying process look like?

Make an offer, sign a sale-purchase agreement with an earnest deposit, complete due diligence (title, permits, surveys, taxes), then close at the notary's office with escrow disbursement. A standard transaction takes 30–60 days.

Do I need residency to own property?

No. Residency is not required to purchase or hold real estate in Costa Rica, and many of our buyers hold property as non-residents. A $150,000 purchase can, however, qualify you for residency under the Investor Visa if you want to spend more time in-country.

What taxes and fees should I budget for?

Closing costs typically total 3.5–4% of the purchase price (transfer tax, notary fees, stamps). Annual property tax is 0.25% of registered value, and a luxury-home tax applies above roughly $240k in construction value. We provide full line-item estimates at the offer stage.

Can I get a mortgage as a foreign buyer?

Local bank financing exists but requires extensive documentation and carries higher rates than the US. Most international buyers purchase in cash or use home-country financing; seller financing is sometimes available on select listings.

How strong is rental income on the Nicoya Peninsula?

Short-term vacation rentals perform well across the peninsula, especially in Nosara, Santa Teresa, and Sámara. We can share realistic yield estimates by area and connect you with vetted property managers who handle guest services and dynamic pricing.

Residency Through Investment

Buy property. Become a resident of Costa Rica.

A $150,000 real estate purchase qualifies you and your family for Costa Rican residency under the Investor Visa. Read our 2026 guide for the full process, timelines, and which Nicoya properties make the strongest cases.

Read the 2026 Guide

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