Relocate IndexCosta Rica vs Mexico for Relocation 2026
Costa Rica scores 59.6 overall vs Mexico's 52.6. Costa Rica leads on rule of law, safety, school culture, healthcare, infrastructure, religious freedom, english proficiency. Mexico leads on purchasing power, climate.
Both countries are in Latin America. See all countries in Latin America.
Score comparison
| Dimension | Costa Rica | Mexico | Delta |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purchasing Power | 63 | 65 | -3 |
| Rule of Law | 66 | 35 | +31 |
| Safety | 31 | 29 | +3 |
| Warmth | — | 98 | — |
| School Culture | 46 | 38 | +8 |
| Healthcare | 58 | 52 | +7 |
| Infrastructure | 50 | 48 | +2 |
| Climate | 90 | 92 | -2 |
| Religious Freedom | 87 | 55 | +32 |
| English Proficiency | 46 | 16 | +30 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Costa Rica or Mexico better for relocation?
Costa Rica scores 59.6 overall compared to Mexico's 52.6 across 10 relocation dimensions. Costa Rica leads on 7 dimensions while Mexico leads on 2.
Which is safer, Costa Rica or Mexico?
Costa Rica scores higher on safety: Costa Rica 31 vs Mexico 29, based on homicide rates (UNODC) and residents' crime reports (Numbeo).
What is the biggest difference between Costa Rica and Mexico?
The largest gap is in religious freedom: Costa Rica scores 32 points higher (87 vs 55).