What is it like to live in Nicaragua?

Imagine knowing that you can easily access a quiet beach, a fresh coconut, or a local pulperia for your fresh, locally-sourced fruit and eggs, from wherever you are living in Nicaragua. At all times, there’s somewhere to socialize, grab barbecued meat for dinner with friends, or watch the sunset with a cold beer. Now imagine you’re enjoying all of these things and more, for a fraction of the price they cost in North America. If you’ve been on the fence about exploring what this country has to offer as a homebase, here’s a list of what it’s truly like to call Nicaragua home.

Disclaimer: reading this list might result in you packing a bag immediately.

1. Surf Lifestyle: A Wave-Rider’s Paradise

Nicaragua is a top destination for surfers, thanks to its consistently great waves and year-round surf conditions. The Pacific coastline offers world-class surf spots, particularly in places like San Juan del Sur, and further North, like Popoyo and Playa Colorados. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, Nicaragua's beaches provide waves for all levels. The surf culture in Nicaragua is relaxed, making it the perfect place for surfers to enjoy a slow-paced lifestyle while riding some of the best waves in the world.

Living here means waking up to the sound of the ocean, having easy access to uncrowded beaches, and enjoying the friendly surf community. Known for being welcoming and laid-back, there are plenty of opportunities to connect with other wave enthusiasts, take lessons, or even find Nicaraguan surf camps and retreats, year-round.

2. Community-Based Culture: A Tight-Knit Way of Life

One of the most striking aspects of life in Nicaragua is the strong sense of community. Whether you're in the bustling streets of León, the colonial charm of Granada, or the tranquil beach towns like San Juan del Sur, you’ll find that people value personal relationships and community involvement.

Nicaragua’s culture is centered around family and communal living. It’s common to see people spending time together in parks, sharing meals, and supporting each other in daily life. This culture extends to the expat community as well, with whom it’s easy to make friends and form meaningful connections–especially for families. The community spirit extends to business as well, with local markets, small shops, and family-run businesses playing a crucial role in everyday life.

3. Adventure and Nature: A Playground for Outdoor Enthusiasts

Nicaragua is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The country’s landscape is incredibly diverse, offering everything from active volcanoes to lush rainforests and pristine beaches. Whether you're hiking up the Cerro Negro volcano, exploring Masaya Volcano National Park, or kayaking on Lake Cocibolca, there’s always an adventure waiting around the corner.

For those who love wildlife, Nicaragua also offers unique opportunities to spot a wide range of animals in their natural habitats from the comfort of your backyard. From tropical birds to monkeys and sea turtles, Nicaragua’s stunning natural beauty offers endless possibilities for outdoor exploration.

4. Low Cost of Living: Affordable and Comfortable Lifestyle

One of the biggest draws for expats moving to Nicaragua is its incredibly low cost of living. Compared to North America or Europe, you’ll find that housing, food and entertainment–such as dining out, are all much more affordable.

The affordability of every day life–and housing, allows you to live a comfortable and relaxed lifestyle while having access to modern amenities like high-speed internet, reliable transportation, and private healthcare. Many expats choose to live in smaller towns like Granada or San Juan del Sur, where they can enjoy the country’s low cost of living while also benefiting from the slower pace of life and the close-knit expat community.

5. Organic, Local Groceries: Fresh, Healthy Eating

Nicaragua offers an abundance of fresh, organic produce thanks to its fertile soil and local farming traditions. Many communities have farmers' markets, where you can buy a variety of fruits, vegetables, and other local goods directly from the producers. The organic food movement is growing, with expats and locals alike seeking out healthier, locally grown options. Farm-to-table tip: There are numerous opportunities to support local farmers and buy directly from the source. Just ask around your local community!

Living in Nicaragua means access to fresh fruits like mangoes, pineapples, and avocados, as well as vegetables like tomatoes, beans, and peppers. If you enjoy cooking healthy meals, Nicaragua is the perfect place to embrace an organic, farm-to-table lifestyle.

Living in Nicaragua offers both modern comforts and a grounding connection to nature and community. So whether you’re chasing the perfect wave with friends, enjoying a fresh fruit smoothie, or hiking through the jungle with family, Nicaragua is the perfect destination for expats who want to live life to the fullest.