Personally I would not recommend Nicaragua or Costa Rica. Nicaragua, has political problems of late, and things are a bit too grungy for me. However you can make a pretty good life with friends and more in San Juan Del Sur, that's probably best spot I can recommend in the country.
Costa Rica is way over priced. two dollars for a small bottle of water. Their economy has been ruined by rich Americans and the locals actually suffer as their wages don't keep up with the guaging prices. Like two dollars for a .75 liter bottle of water (nicaragua about 25 cents), very high food and accommodation prices, while the average local only makes about $600 a month. I find it to be one of the most offensive "pay more get less countries" I've ever been to.
Parts of Mexico, Guatamala, Ecuador, Peru, not Chile (another pay more get less country, but not nearly as bad as costa rica, you can put panama in this group too) Argentina is a gem of a country to reside to especially if you like incredible steak and wine for ridiculously little money.
Colombia too dangerous in general. Brazil, believe it or not I'm yet to visit. Venezuela, that's a total basket case, don't want to go there.
I'd take South East Asia over Latin America personally, but that is just me.
Also I would not recommend anchoring your self to any county, buying land, getting permanent visas. It is complicated, expensive, and suddenly you have a new government master to deal with, like the US is not enough. Luckily you you're American. and it's easy to stay long term in many countries on a tourist visa. They like you! You go there and spend lots of US dollars.
Have a great day!
I just need to add is that is EXACTLY what I’m doing !! I’m looking to start a biz or buy a house or all the crap that is really just keeping me here ... I have 2 years .. and I’m out of here... and it won’t be in Costa Rica or Nicaragua - thanks for confirming that 😁🙀
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