Cost of Living in Costa Rica

Summary: The cost of living in Costa Rica is generally considered to be quite affordable. A nice 1 bedroom apartment can cost anywhere from $500 to $1,000 per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can cost anywhere from $700 to $1,500 per month. The cost of dinner at a moderately priced restaurant can range from $10 to $20 per person.

Is the cost of living in Costa Rica high?

We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Costa Rica, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Costa Rica varies depending on a variety of factors such as location, lifestyle and budget. Generally speaking, it is moderate compared to North America or Europe, but the cost can be higher in certain areas or for certain items. Living expenses in popular tourist destinations like San Jose, the capital, are higher, but living costs are lower in smaller towns and rural areas. The cost of food and groceries is generally lower than in North American countries. Average rent prices depend on the size and location of the house or apartment, but can be very affordable in some areas. Transportation costs are also relatively low overall," said one expat in Costa Rica.

"Depends where you live and how you live. A friend in Palmares lives on $970 a month, including rent, vehicle, food, utilities and regional travel. Others live in Escazu in the high cost areas. We live in San Ramon and get by well in a nice place on less than$2000 a month, including yard guy, and maid for 12 hours a month! Depends on you," remarked one in Costa Rica.

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Will I save money living in Costa Rica?

"Living abroad in Costa Rica has definitely exceeded our expectations financially. Imported products such as electronics can run 50% higher than our native country so this is definitely a downfall. Some imported foods are expensive too. However, it is not difficult to learn to live without all the high end electronics and the latest gadget. Learning to shop locally for food brings your grocery budget to a reasonable level. Fruit and vegetables are inexpensive and living on the coast, fresh fish is a great deal! Property taxes are inexpensive and a fraction of what we paid in the states. Vehicles are expensive as is gas; however public transportation is widely available and very affordable," remarked one expat in Playa Hermosa de Jaco.

"No! Costa Rica is far more expensive than I thought. I eat out a lot and most of the time the prices are equivalent to US. You can eat for less at sodas and the market, which I do. Buses are a bargain, but cabs cost far more than any other major city in the region: Guatemala, Managua, San Pedro. Also, since everything is exported, prices for shampoos, soaps, tooth paste, razor blades, and things of that nature are much higher than the U.S. Also, my rent is much higher than anticipated," explained one expat living in San Jose.

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What is the average cost of housing in Costa Rica?

If you are thinking about moving to Costa Rica, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"Totally depends on many factors. Are you looking to rent or buy? How many bedrooms? City or country? Altitude, I.e., beach or mountains? Seasonal only, or long term? Hot water or not? Window screens or not? With Ticos or Gringoes? AC or not? Furnished or not? Close to hospitals and good medical or remote? Want views? What kind? Utilities included or not? Finished or under construction? Will you have a vehicle, and will it have 4WD? Are you ok with public transport (it’s excellent). Pets? You can see there are many possible answers to your question! We chose mountains with Nicoya Peninsula views, good infrastructure, home built to American specs with quality materials by reputable builder, hot water, screens, electric gate, and all in a Tico community of great diversity. City is only 3 kms away over the mountain. Pulperia up the street where we all hang out to watch futball! And we drive a 21 yr old SUV. Love Costa Rica," said one expat in Costa Rica.

"Much much lower both in terms of cost of buying and maintenance (e.g. electricity, internet much cheaper, water, etc.). Also housekeeper, for example is only 3,000 colones an hour ($4.67)! Ridiculous! We doubled her "salary" from the start. And monthly condominium fee are only $ 400/month vs. $800-1200/month in CA. Wow," wrote a person living in Escazu.

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What are typical rental prices for expats in Costa Rica?

"The rental price for a nice one bedroom apartment in Costa Rica can range from around $500 to $2,000 per month, while the rental price for a nice two bedroom apartment can range from around $700 to $2,500 per month," said an expat in Costa Rica.

"$1000 per month will be a condo with lesser amenities, smaller square footage, pool access, security. At this price range or slightly less, you will be expected to pay for electric but generally cable, wáter and internet is provided. At the $1,200 - $2,000 price point, an upper scale condo or a private home. The condo will have pool access, security, upscale appliances and a spacious layout. Generally three bedrooms and Americanized features. You most likely will be responsible for the electricity payment with cable/water, internet included. Over $2,000 - $3,000, you will find larger homes and upper scale condominiums. You will definitely have Americanized features such as upscale kitchens, bathrooms, furnishings, exclusive security, covered parking. Your utilities may be covered as some condos have "cooling towers" for air conditioning which will substantially reduce individual electric bills. The maintentance fees for these rental units are high so be aware if you are responsable for any portion of maintenance fees especially with these types of rental units. In condo complexes with buildings of several floors, the higher floors will have higher rental rates as these are the most popular and exclusive. Penthouse units will have exclusive entrances and these will be of the highest price range," commented one expat living in Playa Jaco (Jaco Beach), Costa Rica.

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What appliances are typically included in a rental?

We asked foreigners in Costa Rica what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:

"In Costa Rica, the typical appliances found in a rental property include a fridge, stove, washing machine, and air conditioning. In some cases, additional items such as a dishwasher, clothes dryer, and microwave may also be provided. Utilities such as electricity and water will also generally be included in the cost of rent," commented one expat living in Costa Rica.

"Generally rental properties are fully applianced. Lower scale rental units will have the basics, no dishwasher, possibly only a stove top and not an oven. A washer may be included but generally not a dryer. On the higher end scale, these will be fully appliances with American style refrigerator, stove/oven, dishwasher, microwave and washer/dryer. Be especially observant if the condo complex has a community área with tables, chairs, sink/wáter availability, bathrooms and BBQ grill. This is especially attractive for entertaining friends and family," wrote one expat.

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Cost of Living in Costa Rica

Is the cost of living in Costa Rica high?

Will I save money living in Costa Rica?

What is the average cost of housing in Costa Rica?

What are typical rental prices for expats in Costa Rica?

What appliances are typically included in a rental?

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