This content was generated using artificial intelligence based on publicly available information. It is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, immigration, or professional advice. Information may be incomplete or outdated. Always verify with official sources before making decisions.
Data Source: Safety, crime, and quality metrics are sourced from Numbeo, a crowd-sourced global database of reported data.
All scores are relative comparisons on a 0-100 scale, where 50 = global average. Higher scores mean better than average, lower scores mean worse than average.
Cartagena, Costa Rica, offers expats a tranquil, nature-centric lifestyle deeply integrated with local communities, ideal for those prioritizing a slower pace and natural beauty over urban bustle. Its appeal lies in a relaxed daily rhythm amidst stunning landscapes, with neighborhoods like Santa Cruz and Río Zapote providing a genuine sense of place.
While safety and healthcare are generally reliable for daily needs, expect a more localized infrastructure rather than extensive metropolitan services, requiring some adaptation. Public transport is functional, but personal transport often enhances flexibility for exploring the region's natural charm. This destination suits those ready to embrace a simpler, community-focused life.
Cartagena, Costa Rica has a tropical savanna climate (Köppen Aw) with warm temperatures year-round and a pronounced dry season. Long-term reference data and current conditions both support a hot, humid climate with seasonal rainfall concentrated in the wetter months, while temperatures stay within the broader national range for Costa Rica.
Summer Average
31°C
Winter Average
27°C
Climate Type
Tropical Savanna
Rainy Days
211
Sunny Days
250
Humidity
80%
Spring
March - May
28-32°C
Spring stays hot, with increasing cloudiness and the first rise in rainfall as the wet season approaches. Humidity remains high, and afternoons can feel noticeably warmer than mornings.
Moderate rainfall
Summer
June - August
27-31°C
Summer is warm to very warm and typically part of the rainy season, with frequent showers and humid conditions. Sunshine is still common between rain periods, but rainfall is generally higher than in the dry season.
High rainfall
Autumn
September - November
27-30°C
Autumn is usually the wettest part of the year, with heavy rain episodes and persistently high humidity. Temperatures remain stable, but cloud cover and rainfall are more frequent.
Very High rainfall
Winter
December - February
26-30°C
Winter is the driest and sunniest season, making it the most comfortable period for outdoor activities. Rainfall drops sharply, but the climate remains warm and humid rather than cool.
Low rainfall
Loading Weather...
Air Quality
Cartagena
Advantages
Cartagena
Abundant parks and green spaces
Strong educational infrastructure
Tropical Caribbean climate
Affordable cost of living
Close-knit community atmosphere
Disadvantages
Cartagena
No coworking spaces available
Limited higher education options
Restricted job market opportunities
Small expat community support
Safety & Security in Cartagena
Overall Safety Score
Includes resilience and environmental factors
Moderate
55
/100
Costa Rica Avg
56
North America Avg
57
Worldwide Avg
56
Crime & Safety Metrics
Thermometer compares Cartagena to Costa Rica averages using different marker styles.Compare:
Cartagena
Costa Rica Average
No city-specific data available — showing Costa Rica country averages instead.
Safety Index
0510
Low
Safety from Crime
0510
Concerning
Safe Alone (Day)
0510
Moderate
Safe Alone (Night)
0510
Low
Safety from Violent Crime
0510
Concerning
Safety from Property Crime
0510
Concerning
Environmental & Natural Hazard Risks
Resilience Score: 81/100
No data for Cartagena — showing hazard indicators from nearby Puntarenas (~103 km).
