# Moving to Costa Rica from the USA

> Relocating to Costa Rica from the United States — sea-freight costs, transit times, customs and residency routes (Pensionado, Rentista, Inversionista).

Canonical: https://www.portunusai.com/moving-from-usa/costa-rica
Direction: USA → Costa Rica
Data last reviewed: 2026-06-15

## Typical moving costs

- Studio: $2,470–$3,900
- 1 bedroom: $3,770–$5,850
- 2 bedrooms: $5,070–$8,125
- 3 bedrooms: $7,475–$11,700
- 20ft container: $3,825–$5,850
- 40ft container: $6,375–$9,750

## Transit times

- Miami → Limón: 7–14 days
- Houston → Limón: 8–16 days
- Los Angeles → Caldera: 18–30 days

## Customs & import notes

- Import duties can apply, but Pensionado/Rentista/Inversionista applicants may receive one-time household-import benefits.
- A detailed inventory and your residency paperwork are required.
- New items and vehicles are typically dutiable.
- Restricted items need separate clearance.

## Visa & residency options in Costa Rica

- Pensionado: For retirees with qualifying pension income.
- Rentista: For those with stable income or a qualifying bank deposit.
- Inversionista: For investors meeting the threshold.
- Digital Nomad visa: For remote workers earning from abroad.

## Moving companies serving this route

- International Van Lines — Best overall, Full-service moves (https://www.internationalvanlines.com/)
- SDC International Shipping — Sea freight, Door-to-door overseas (https://www.sdcinternationalshipping.com/)
- Crown Relocations — Premium, Corporate relocation (https://www.crownrelo.com/)
- Seven Seas Worldwide — Budget, Small moves & students (https://www.sevenseasworldwide.com/)
- Sirelo (compare multiple movers) — Compare several quotes at once (https://www.sirelo.com/)

## Related resources

- [Moving to the USA hub](https://www.portunusai.com/moving-to-usa)
- [Moving from the USA hub](https://www.portunusai.com/moving-from-usa)
- [Site-wide llms.txt](https://www.portunusai.com/llms.txt)