In this article, we will take a look at 5 best cities to retire in Central America. If you wish to check out our detailed analysis on the financial state of retirees and retiring in Central America, you may go to 12 Best Cities to Retire in Central America.
5. Panama City, Panama
Cost of living: $1,272
Bustling with expats, Panama City is a wonderful retirement destination for retirees. It is one of the most modern cities in Central America, offering its residents a warm climate, modern infrastructure, and natural beauty. The vibrant metropolitan city has all the big-city amenities and conveniences, including its only metro system in Central America.
Another thing Panama City is famous for is its world-class healthcare facilities. Internationally accredited hospitals and clinics throughout the area, such as Hospital Punta Pacifica, Paitilla Hospital (Centro Médico Paitilla), ensure retirees have access to state-of-the-art medical services. Various residency programs have made it relatively easy to retire in Panama City, Panama.
4. San José, Costa Rica
Cost of living: $1,077
Beautiful scenery, affordable costs of living, and vibrant culture make San Jose, Costa Rica, one of the best cities to retire in Central America. The expat community is well-established, the climate is wonderfully pleasant, and the overall infrastructure is great. Retirees usually join clubs or organizations, such as Costa Rican-North American Cultural Center, and the American-Costa Rican Association, to keep busy. Both of these clubs allow expats to keep connected with their culture.
The cost of living is pretty affordable at $1,077 per month. Rent in the city is 71% lower than in the United States. Even though San Jose is one of the largest and most expensive cities in Costa Rica, one-bedroom apartments cost only as much as $750. Basic utilities cost an additional $90, while Internet and Wi-Fi can cost around $50. Overall, San Jose is a safe and cheap city for expat retirees.
3. Belize City, Belize
Cost of living: $1,000
Belize, the only English-speaking country in Central America, is an ideal retirement destination for many. Belize City, in particular, makes it to our list of top cities to retire. Home to the only international airport in the country, the city houses a diverse community, and most of the locals are friendly and welcoming.
The city also embraces a warm climate, and is blessed with pristine beaches, luxurius rainforests, and an abundance of marine life. The cost of living in the city is higher than in most Caribbean countries. However, expats will find it cheaper than their own home country’s living expenses. An expat can retire comfortably in the city for as low as $1,000.
2. Heredia, Costa Rica
Cost of living: $850
Known as the “city of flowers,” Heredia is one of Central America’s best cities to retire. The beautiful city is located 10km from Northern San Jose, at the foothills of Brava Volcano (now extinct). The city’s enchanting allure stems from its lush, beautiful gardens and abundant flora. The city also boasts the highest life expectancy rate in the country at 84, thanks to the quality of life in the small city.
Heredia is one of the most affordable places to retire, with costs of living as low as $850. Its mild, tropical climate is also a plus when choosing this city. Moreover, the city offers plenty of amenities to its residents, such as restaurants, shopping centers, cultural attractions, as well as theaters and museums. Overall, it is a nice place to choose for retirement.
1. Granada, Nicaragua
Cost of living: $700
Those retiring to Granada, Nicaragua, will find themselves amidst a huge, welcoming expat community. The plentiful recreational opportunities will fill up their calendars, and they will be able to enjoy a fulfilling retirement period. Restaurants will serve your favorite dishes, as well as Nicaraguan delicacies.
The city’s cost of living is as low as $700, and retirees will have plenty to spend on luxuries. Furnished apartments, Wi-Fi, food, entertainment, and other luxuries are all affordable for far under $1,500. Overall, it is a safe and cheap city to retire in Central America.
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