Cost of Living in Escazu, Costa Rica
Last updated on Jan 03, 2023
Summary: The cost of living in Escazu, Costa Rica is generally considered to be quite high. A nice 1 bedroom apartment in Escazu can cost anywhere from $800 to $1,500 per month in US Dollars. A nice 2 bedroom apartment in Escazu can cost anywhere from $1,200 to $2,000 per month in US Dollars. The cost of dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Escazu can range from $10 to $20 per person in US Dollars.
Is the cost of living in Escazu high?
We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Escazu, they wrote:
"The cost of living in Escazu is generally higher than in other parts of Costa Rica, but is still relatively affordable compared to other popular expat destinations in Latin America," said another expat in Escazu.
"This is probably the number one question that people ask. Honestly, there is no "correct" answer to this because everyone has different needs. All I can say is Costa Rica is NOT as cheap as it used to be. It is one of the more expensive destinations but it is still much cheaper than the US. Housing, taxes, maid service, drivers, medical...these items are significantly less. Food, utilities, gasoline, dining out....can be close to US prices in an affordable city. Shopping at the "feria" for produce is your best bet for keeping costs very low," added another person living in Escazu.

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Will I save money living in Escazu?
"The cost of living in Escazu can vary depending on your lifestyle and the type of accommodation you choose. Generally, the cost of living in Escazu is lower than in other parts of the country, and the rental costs are considered more affordable. Prices for food and everyday expenses are also more affordable than in other cities. Therefore, you can likely save money if you choose to live in Escazu," explained one expat.
"Well, we have made some good investments and we have made some bad ones. My advice, be cautious. Best to have your resources set up in your home country before you take the plunge," said another person in Escazu.
What is the average cost of housing in Escazu?
If you are thinking about moving to Escazu, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"The cost of housing in Escazu can vary depending on its proximity to the city center and its size, amenities and condition. Generally, the cost of renting a two-bedroom apartment in Escazu ranges from $800 to $1,500 a month, while purchasing a two-bedroom apartment costs around $200,000 to $400,000," explained one expat living in Escazu.
"Condo's in Escazu, especially close to either Avenida Escazu or the San Jose Country Club also start at $ 500,000 and many head into the millions now. An older studio (70 sq. meters/800 sq. feet) just sold for $270,000 in Avenida Escazu...," said another expat in Costa Rica.
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About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
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