Is it cheaper to retire in Mexico or Costa Rica?

Mexico is modestly cheaper than Costa Rica on totals: Mexico moderate is $1,925 per person per month versus Costa Rica’s $2,075, a gap of about $150 a month or 7 percent. The cost gap closes when comparing equivalent expat-popular cities: Merida, Oaxaca, Puerto Vallarta, and Lake Chapala in Mexico against Escazu, Santa Ana, or the Central Valley in Costa Rica. The non-cost differences typically drive the choice more than dollars. Costa Rica wins on political stability (no military since 1948, strong democracy), environmental footprint (25 percent of the country is national park or protected reserve), public healthcare quality, and lower violent crime relative to most of Mexico. Mexico wins on cultural depth, food variety, proximity to the US for family visits, and inventory of expat-ready housing. Retirement visas in both countries are mature and accessible; Pensionado in Costa Rica, Temporal Residente in Mexico. For the full breakdown, see our Costa Rica cost of living page.