🚨 Why Over 100,000 Canadians Left in 2023 — And Why Costa Rica Might Be Next for You

(Spoiler: It’s not just about the weather)

What’s going on? And why are so many of them choosing Costa Rica?

Something big is shifting — and if you’re reading this, you might already feel it too.

In 2023, Canada saw the largest number of citizens permanently leaving the country in over 60 years. According to Statistics Canada More than 100,000 Canadians officially moved abroad, citing reasons like the high cost of living, burnout, long winters, and frustration with the system. And one country keeps coming up in these conversations: Costa Rica.

But why?

🇨🇦 What’s Pushing Canadians Out?

• Inflation & housing pressure: Despite cooling markets, many Canadians still face record-high rents and home prices.

• Work-life imbalance: Remote work is up, but so is burnout. People are questioning the 9–5 grind.

• Weather: Let’s be honest — 6 months of winter takes a toll.

• Taxes: Higher earnings are being swallowed by rising provincial and federal taxes.

• Mental health: More people are looking for simplicity, calm, and connection to nature.

The pandemic changed a lot. But it also opened the door to new possibilities — especially for those who realized they don’t have to stay put to live well.

🇨🇷 Why Costa Rica Keeps Popping Up

Here’s why more and more Canadians are trading snow tires for flip-flops:

• Lifestyle without the pressure

Costa Rica’s pace is slower, more human. There’s no need to “hustle” for status. Most people here live simply — and happily.

• Lower overall cost (when done right)

While prices have increased in some areas, many expats live well on $1,800–$2,500/month depending on location and lifestyle. And there’s no capital gains tax on most real estate.

• Health without the wait

The public healthcare system (Caja) is solid and accessible. And private healthcare is affordable — a dentist cleaning costs around $40–$60, and specialist visits are often under $100 without insurance.

• Sunshine year-round

No snow. No slush. Just rain and shine — with an average of 250+ sunny days per year in many regions.

• Residency options that work

From Pensionado and Rentista programs to the Digital Nomad Visa, there are legal, accessible paths for Canadians who want to stay long-term — even work remotely while living here.

The “Quality of Life” Shift

Canadians aren’t just leaving for beaches and palm trees. They’re looking for meaning, connection, and a reset.

They want:

• To walk barefoot on warm ground instead of scraping ice off windshields.

• To spend more time with their kids and less in traffic.

• To eat real fruit, breathe fresh air, and live a little slower — on purpose.

If you’ve ever thought: “There’s got to be more than this. ”You’re not alone.

And you’re not crazy for thinking Costa Rica could be the answer.

• Final Thoughts

Is moving to Costa Rica perfect? No. But for the right person, at the right time — it can be transformational.

Don’t just dream about change. Learn what it takes to actually do it.

Ready to explore your options?

Find properties, learn about residency, and connect with expat resources here:🔗 arcadiacostaricarealestate.com

—Arcadia Team