Kema Ward-Hopper's Transformative Relocation: From Corporate America to Entrepreneurial Life in Costa Rica

When Kema Ward-Hopper made the life-changing decision to relocate her family from the dynamic cityscape of Houston, Texas, to the tranquil and lush Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica six years ago, she faced a future imbued with both anticipation and apprehension. Accompanied by her husband, Nicholas, and their young daughter, Aaralyn, Ward-Hopper undertook a bold shift from established corporate careers in the U.S. to explore entrepreneurial opportunities in an entirely new environment.

At the time of their relocation, Kema and Nicholas Ward-Hopper were both in their early 40s. Kema had built a career as a research analyst, while Nicholas had established himself as a mortgage broker. They left behind their stable jobs to embark on a new venture as entrepreneurs. They secured a one-year lease on a residence nestled deep within the verdant jungle of Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula, an area celebrated for its breathtaking natural beauty and biodiversity. This move was accompanied by considerable uncertainty, as they were unfamiliar with the local community and uncertain about the sustainability of their new professional endeavors.

Despite the risks and uncertainties inherent in such a major life transition, Ward-Hopper reflects positively on their decision. Although her income has decreased compared to her previous role in the U.S., she views this trade-off as worthwhile due to the significantly improved quality of life she now enjoys. “I am a lot happier living and working in Costa Rica,” she asserts, underscoring a profound sense of fulfillment that has replaced the financial rewards of her former career.

Currently, Ward-Hopper has diversified her professional portfolio across several part-time roles. She serves as a health and fitness coach, a Spanish instructor, a host for wellness retreats, and, most recently, an author. In September 2023, she self-published her debut book, *For My Beloveds: An End-of-Life Journal for Guidance & Wisdom*. Her work schedule is notably flexible, averaging 25 hours per week, with occasional peaks of up to 30 hours monthly.

Financially, Ward-Hopper’s income from her various roles amounted to approximately $10,500 last year, as detailed in financial documents reviewed by CNBC Make It. Her husband, Nicholas, operates a remote logistics business, which earned him about $19,500 in 2023. Despite earning less than they did in the U.S., the Ward-Hoppers find that their income stretches further in Costa Rica. Their major expense is rent and utilities, which total approximately $628 per month for their three-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bath home in Nicoya.

A Different Work Culture in Costa Rica

The lower cost of living is just one of the many benefits the Ward-Hoppers have experienced. They have discovered a more rewarding and less stressful work environment compared to their previous experience in the U.S. Costa Rica’s “family-first” work culture promotes a relaxed approach to work-life balance. It is common for Costa Rican businesses to accommodate employees' family needs, such as permitting children to accompany their parents to work if no alternative childcare is available. This level of flexibility significantly reduces stress for working parents and fosters a supportive community environment.

Ward-Hopper highlights the positive impact of this family-centric approach on her life. The Costa Rican work culture is characterized by a more relaxed attitude towards work, with fewer rigid expectations regarding office hours and greater allowance for personal needs. Her son, Nico, born in Costa Rica in 2020, benefits from this accommodating environment, which contrasts sharply with the more demanding work culture she experienced in the U.S.

Furthermore, Costa Rica’s commitment to a healthy work-life balance is evident in its shorter workweek and emphasis on leisure time. Many local businesses open later in the morning, and it is customary for establishments to close on Sundays and holidays. This schedule helps to mitigate employee burnout and provides ample time for personal activities and family life.

Living in a Blue Zone

The Nicoya Peninsula, where the Ward-Hoppers reside, is not only renowned for its stunning landscapes but also for its designation as one of the original Blue Zones—regions of the world noted for their exceptional longevity and high life expectancy. According to longevity researcher Dan Buettner, factors contributing to Nicoya’s Blue Zone status include a diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, as well as a strong emphasis on family and community.

Ward-Hopper also attributes the Costa Rican attitude towards work as a contributing factor to the region’s quality of life. In her perspective, work is less central to personal identity and social interactions compared to the U.S., allowing individuals to pursue a more fulfilling and joyful life outside of their professional roles. This shift in perspective has significantly enhanced her overall well-being and satisfaction with life in Costa Rica.

In summary, Kema Ward-Hopper’s transition from corporate America to entrepreneurial life in Costa Rica exemplifies a successful adaptation to a new cultural and professional landscape. Her experience highlights the benefits of embracing a lifestyle that prioritizes work-life balance, family integration, and personal fulfillment, even in the face of financial adjustments.