Skip to content

Your next address

Bilbao or San José

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

Loading destinations...

How much salary do you need in San José?

Use our Purchasing Power Calculator to find out exactly how much you need to earn in {{city}} to maintain your current lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Based on 2026 cost of living data, San José is more affordable than Bilbao. Bilbao has a cost rating of 50/100, while San José has a cost rating of 50/100.
In terms of safety, Bilbao ranks higher with a safety score of 88/100, compared to San José at 76/100. Bilbao's safety score is 88/100 and San José's safety score is 76/100.
Average rent in Bilbao is typically €700 - €1,000 per month, whereas typical rent in San José averages €650 - €1,000 per month.
For Bilbao, the visa process is rated as: Spanish Digital Nomad Visa & EU Freedom (Spain’s Nomad Visa offers non-EU remote professionals 1-to-3 year residence permits, alongside EU right of residence.). 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.).