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Arequipa or San José

Comprehensive comparison between Arequipa (Peru) and San José (Costa Rica). Analyze differences in purchasing power, housing, safety, and visas to make your next move.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Based on 2026 cost of living data, Arequipa is more affordable than San José. Arequipa has a cost rating of 22/100, while San José has a cost rating of 50/100.
In terms of safety, Arequipa ranks higher with a safety score of 82/100, compared to San José at 76/100. Arequipa's safety score is 82/100 and San José's safety score is 76/100.
Average rent in Arequipa is typically €250 - €450 per month, whereas typical rent in San José averages €650 - €1,000 per month.
For Arequipa, the visa process is rated as: Peru Rentista (Passive Income) & Digital Nomad Visa (Peru’s Rentista visa grants permanent residency to foreign remote earners / retirees (~$1,000/mo income), alongside digital nomad entries.). For San José, the process is rated as: Costa Rica Digital Nomad Visa (Estancia) (Costa Rica’s Digital Nomad Visa offers 1 year (renewable for 2) with full income tax exemption and duty-free import of work equipment.).