An Overview of Crime Rates and Safety in Costa Rica
With beautiful weather and an affordable cost of living, Costa Rica is one of the best retirement destinations for expats. And while expats from all over the world flock to Costa Rica every year, we hear the same question all the time: Is Costa Rica safe?
We’ve reviewed the stats and compiled some data to answer that question once and for all. Keep in mind that crime can happen anywhere at any time in any corner of the world. As a traveler or an expat, you’ve got to be vigilant at all times, especially when you’re in a new country or a new city. With a bit of common sense and street smarts, you can significantly reduce your risk of becoming a victim of a crime. This article outlines the most common crimes, crime rates, and how to stay safe when you’re in Costa Rica.
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Costa Rica Crime Rates Compared to the US
The U.S. State Department designates a specific advisory level for each foreign country, and Costa Rica is at a level 1 – the lowest level. However, you should always take standard precautions when visiting this Central American locale.
While 2017 saw a record number of homicides in Costa Rica, there has been a slight decline since. As of 2023, the murder rate in Costa Rica is 17.3 per 100,000 people. The murder rate in the U.S. is just 7.8 per 100,000 people.
But it’s important to note that some U.S. cities have murder rates as high as 64.5 per 100,000 inhabitants. St. Louis, Missouri, tops the list at 64.5, while Baltimore, MD, and New Orleans, LA, come in at 58.3 and 30.7, respectively.
Most Common Crimes in Costa Rica
Despite their growing numbers, homicides are not the primary threat in Costa Rica. The most common crimes perpetrated against travelers and expats are petty crimes like pickpocketing, purse snatching, and petty theft.
Criminals are always looking to steal U.S. passports, cash, cell phones, credit cards, and jewelry.
As in any U.S. or European city, you need to be aware of your surroundings at all times. Keep an eye on your valuables, and keep your passports and cash close at hand, and you probably won’t fall victim to Costa Rican crime.
How to Stay Safe in Costa Rica as an Expat
The OSAC, the U.S. State Department Bureau of Diplomatic Security, reports that “the vast majority of visitors do not become victims of crime.”
Yet it follows from that statement that “All individuals are potential targets for criminals.” The truth is, this is the case anywhere you go.
How can you stay safe as an expat in Costa Rica? Here are some useful tips:
- Store your travel documents, passports, and valuables in a safe place. The U.S. Embassy in Costa Rica recommends carrying only a copy of your passport when you’re out in public.
- Travel in groups and minimize travel after dark. The same goes for any major city – there is safety in numbers, and most crimes occur at night.
- Stay vigilant when withdrawing money from ATMs
- Have the number of your hotel and the number of your country’s embassy on a piece of paper in your pocket.
- Contact your embassy (and local authorities) if you are a victim of a crime.
- Check Costa Rica travel advisories in the area you plan to visit. Currently, the U.S. government advises visitors to take extra precautions in several provinces of Costa Rica. These include the central neighborhood in Limón, Liberia City, the Desamparados neighborhood in San Rafael, and the Pavas and Hospital neighborhoods in San José.
Is Costa Rica Safe for Expats?
All countries have some crime, but as long as you stay aware of your surroundings, you should be safe.
The U.S. State Department ranks Costa Rica as a “level 1” country, which is the safest level. Be vigilant and take standard precautions, and you’ll be safer living and traveling in Costa Rica than you will in some major American cities.
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