🇦🇺 Australia vs 🇨🇷 Costa Rica
Side-by-side early retirement comparison — taxes, cost of living, healthcare, and FIRE number.
Key Takeaway
Costa Rica is significantly cheaper than Australia for retirees. With a cost of living index of 45 vs 80, your money goes 44% further in Costa Rica. Capital gains tax is 15% in Costa Rica vs 0% in Australia. Use the calculator to see your personalized FIRE number for both countries.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Tax Comparison for Retirees
🇦🇺 Australia Taxes
🇨🇷 Costa Rica Taxes
Calculate Your Exact FIRE Number
Enter your portfolio, spending, and retirement age to see a personalized comparison between Australia and Costa Rica — with Monte Carlo simulations and tax modeling.
🔥 Open Calculator — Australia vs Costa RicaFAQ: Australia vs Costa Rica for Retirement
Is it cheaper to retire in Costa Rica or Australia?
Costa Rica has a cost of living index of 45 compared to Australia's 80(where US = 100). Costa Rica is significantly cheaper than Australia for retirees. Your money goes approximately 44% further in Costa Rica.
How do taxes compare between Australia and Costa Rica?
Capital gains tax is 15% in Costa Rica vs 0% in Australia. The top income tax rate is 25% in Costa Rica vs 45% in Australia. For FIRE retirees, the effective tax rate depends on your withdrawal strategy — use our calculator for a personalized estimate.
What about healthcare in Costa Rica vs Australia?
Estimated annual healthcare costs are $1,800 in Costa Ricavs $0 in Australia. Costa Rica offers public healthcare access for residents. Australia offers public healthcare access for residents.