QCOSTARICA RETIREMENT LIVING – In his article of December 24, 2014 and published on Retire For Less in Costa Rica, Rob Evans discusses “What Does It Cost You NOT to Move to Costa Rica?”
Evans writes:
“As a former financial analyst, I have been intrigued for several years by Paul and Gloria’s monthly budget. I love the simplicity and precision with which they address one of their most frequently asked questions about the cost of living in Costa Rica – what does it cost you to live in Costa Rica.
However, as I began planning my retirement, instead of simply considering what it would cost to move or how much I would save, I started wondering what it would it cost me NOT to move. Turning the question around gave me new insights.
At 55, I planned to retire at 65 and estimated I would live to 85. So then I wondered, if I have 30 years left, why am I marking time for the next 10 years before the adventure starts?
I realized I was working for health insurance (while neglecting my health), which is depressing when you think about it.
Given that people sometimes spend tens of thousands of dollars near the end of their lives to hold on one more year, how much were these next ten years worth to me?
So, what was it costing me NOT to move to Costa Rica in terms of mental and physical health?
What was I losing in “opportunity cost” by not exploring the world while I was still physically able?
And how many years of good health was I losing by not getting off the rat’s wheel and focusing on a healthy diet and exercise?
The more I considered what it was costing me to lose 1/3 of my remaining years by waiting for the adventure to begin, the more I realized that I needed to make the move sooner rather than later.
I encourage others who are considering retiring in Costa Rica (or wherever) to turn the question around when considering the future and not to just compare the cost of rent or eggs.
Ask yourself, “Why shouldn’t I start the adventure NOW?”
Rob and Jeni Evans moved to San Ramon from Raleigh, NC, in November 2014 after three years of unloading all they owed.
Rob worked for IBM for 32 years and Jeni was an English teacher who homeschooled their children. Their goal now is to live fully and to see as much of Costa Rica as walking, buses, and taxis allow.
