Central America has become a popular retirement location for many Americans. Relatively low land and construction prices, low cost of living and the tropical environment have made the region very attractive to retired couples.
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Costa Rica
Its climate, notoriously friendly population, high-quality, inexpensive health care system and low cost of living are all factors that make it an attractive location for retirees.
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El Salvador
There are no restrictions on foreign ownership of property in El Salvador, and government approval is not required.
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Guatemala
While foreigners can own property, they are restricted from owning land that borders rivers, oceans or international borders.
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Honduras
Foreigners can own property in Honduras as long as it is not within 25 miles of shorelines or national borders.
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Mexico
Mexican laws allow foreigners to acquire the rights to use and enjoy real estate located in the coastal and border areas of Mexico through a trust, called Fideicomiso.
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Nicaragua
The Nicaraguan government provides incentives to attract foreign retirees (must be over 45), such as tax relief on foreign income, and no duty on one car and the first $10,000 worth of household goods brought into the country.
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Panama
There are no restrictions on foreign ownership other than that foreigners cannot own property within 10 kilometers of the country's two international borders with Colombia and Costa Rica.
Belize
Foreigners are allowed to own land in Belize, but can only own up to 10 acres outside the city and a half acre inside the city.
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