Jaco is a coastal town in Costa Rica, popular among tourists and expats for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife and surfing culture. It’s no surprise that people from all over the world flock here for the Pura Vida lifestyle. If you’ve ever wondered what living day-to-day in Jaco is like, you’ve come to the right place.

We’re going to break down the culture and lifestyle to shed some light on this beautiful town, so you can decide whether Jaco is right for you.

Jaco sits on the Central Pacific coast of Costa Rica and is the closest beach town to the capital city of San Jose. The town has a population of around 12,000 people and is known for its bubbly atmosphere and friendly locals.

The main street — Calle Central, is lined with shops, restaurants, and bars while the beach is just a few blocks away. Jaco is also a popular destination for surfers, with several surf schools and shops located in the town.

Since tourism is crucial to Jaco, the community is welcoming and expat-friendly. You won’t need to speak Spanish to get by over here. You won’t be stuck on rice and beans either, as there’s an impressive variety of cuisine available from different cultures.

Although it’s generally safe to stay, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. As the sun sets, the party life prevails where drugs and prostitution is commonplace. This is why expats are encouraged to take care of their belongings and mind their safety after hours.

All things considered, it’s a magical place where there’s always something to do or somewhere to explore. If Jaco sounds like your dream destination, we’ve rounded up some ideal places for you to stay.

If you’re planning to rent, here are some excellent options:

3 Bedroom House in a Gated Community - $3,000 per month

A spacious house with an outdoor patio and ocean view. Great for large families.

South Jaco Retreat Condo - $1,550 per month

2 bedroom condo in a quiet complex.

2 Bedroom House in Rico y Famosos - $1,250 per month

A charming house with a pool in a great neighbourhood

4 Bedroom House - $2,500 per month

A house with a serene courtyard fit with a pool and barbeque area.

1 Bedroom House - $1,100 per month

2-level house in a a gated area. Private and perfect for singles.

Looking to buy your own place instead? Here’s 3 of our picks:

2 Bedroom Condo in Club del Cielo - $225,000

Conveniently located condo with a bar and beautiful balcony.

2-Storey House - $195,000

4 bedroom house with a patio. Suitable for bigger families.

View on jaco Realty

Single Storey House - $275,000

2 bedroom house with a pool. Ideal for small families.

View on jaco Realty

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