🇺🇸 United States 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 United States for retirees. With a cost of living index of 45 vs 100, your money goes 55% further in Costa Rica. Capital gains tax is 15% in Costa Rica vs 0% in United States. Use the calculator to see your personalized FIRE number for both countries.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Tax Comparison for Retirees
🇺🇸 United States Taxes
🇨🇷 Costa Rica Taxes
Calculate Your Exact FIRE Number
Enter your portfolio, spending, and retirement age to see a personalized comparison between United States and Costa Rica — with Monte Carlo simulations and tax modeling.
🔥 Open Calculator — United States vs Costa RicaFAQ: United States vs Costa Rica for Retirement
Is it cheaper to retire in Costa Rica or United States?
Costa Rica has a cost of living index of 45 compared to United States's 100(where US = 100). Costa Rica is significantly cheaper than United States for retirees. Your money goes approximately 55% further in Costa Rica.
How do taxes compare between United States and Costa Rica?
Capital gains tax is 15% in Costa Rica vs 0% in United States. The top income tax rate is 25% in Costa Rica vs 37% in United States. 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 United States?
Estimated annual healthcare costs are $1,800 in Costa Ricavs $3,000 in United States. Costa Rica offers public healthcare access for residents.