Retiring in Atenas: What to Expect from Life in Costa Rica

Atenas one of the best places to retire in Costa Rica?

If you’ve been dreaming of retiring somewhere with breathtaking views, a relaxed pace of life, and weather that makes every day feel like vacation, you’re not alone. Atenas has quietly become one of the top retirement destinations in Central America. It’s easy to see why.

From affordable healthcare to a vibrant community of locals and expats, retiring in Atenas offers more than a home. You will find that it also offers a lifestyle.

The famous Atenas climate: More than just sunshine

Atenas is often celebrated as having “the best climate in the world.” And it’s not just a slogan. Nestled in the Central Valley at just the right elevation, the weather is springlike year-round. There aer cool nights, warm days, and gentle breezes that carry the scent of mango trees and hibiscus blooms.

This means:

• Lower utility costs (no need for heat or A/C)

• Outdoor living year-round

• Better sleep, better health, better moods

What everyday life feels like in retirement

• Fresh markets and local fruit stands

• Coffee shops (where everyone knows your name)

• Nature trails, yoga classes, birdwatching, and community volunteering

• An international community with shared values and local charm

Most retirees here strike a balance between peaceful privacy and active involvement. Many can be found playing pickleball in the morning, sipping wine at sunset with neighbors, and hosting visiting family who never want to leave.

Healthcare and support services for retirees

Costa Rica offers high-quality, affordable healthcare, both public and private. Atenas is close to San José’s top private hospitals, yet far enough to feel peaceful and rural. Many local doctors speak English and home-care services, dental work, and even holistic therapies are more affordable than in North America.

Housing options for every vision of retirement

Whether you want a gated luxury villa with a pool, a quiet mountain-view casita, a walkable home near the town square, or an investment property with rental income… Atenas delivers. You’ll find well-built homes with character, space to garden or entertain, and views that never get old.

How to prepare for the transition

• Rent before you buy: Spend 3–6 months exploring before committing.

• Work with an experienced real estate agent: We’ll help you navigate local law, taxes, and the cultural nuances that make all the difference.

• Get involved early: Join local clubs, take Spanish lessons, and say yes to coffee invitations. You’ll build your circle faster than you think.

Retirement isn’t the end, but the beginning

Retiring in Atenas is about more than saving money or escaping cold winters. It’s about discovering a version of life that’s vibrant, spacious, and deeply fulfilling. It’s about waking up with purpose, surrounded by nature and new friends.

So, what are you waiting for?

Let REMAX Best Climate help you find your perfect retirement home in the town where life truly gets better with time.

Browse homes or contact us today to plan a discovery trip.