One of the best parts of moving abroad is community. These are the top expat communities in Costa Rica — where newcomers find friends, services, and support in 2026.
Central Valley: Grecia, Atenas, Escazú
The largest, most established expat hubs — great climate, hospitals, and the airport. See our Central Valley guide.
Guanacaste beaches: Tamarindo & Flamingo
Big international beach communities on the Gold Coast. See Guanacaste.
Southern Zone: Uvita, Dominical, Ojochal
Ojochal is famously multicultural and foodie-friendly. See the Southern Zone guide.
Lake Arenal
A tight-knit international community around Nuevo Arenal. See living in Nuevo Arenal.
Nosara & the Blue Zone
Wellness-focused and walkable — see Nosara.
Finding your people
Learn a little Spanish and plug into local groups. Read building community & Spanish.
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