The Real Cost Of Living In Costa Rica

What comes to mind when you think of Latin America? Probably warm weather, lush landscapes, beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and friendly people. However, Costa Rica offers something much rarer in the region: long-standing democratic stability, diplomatic neutrality, and a legal system rooted in peace and order. With no standing army for over 75 years, it has earned the nickname "the Switzerland of Central America," a title supported by decades of political stability and adherence to the rule of law.

Costa Rica also stands out economically, particularly in its development of a tourism sector. Unlike many of its neighbours, Costa Rica has embraced eco-tourism and conservation as national priorities. This approach, combined with a high quality of life, has made the country a top destination for expats, remote workers, and global investors. It’s a place where you don’t have to sacrifice modern comforts or ideals in exchange for tropical beauty.

In this article, I’ll break down the cost of living in Costa Rica using the latest 2025 data, so you can get a clear picture of what life here might cost. From rent and groceries to schooling, utilities, and healthcare, the numbers below reflect the realities of day-to-day life, not just promotional highlights. 

AN OVERVIEW OF THE COST OF LIVING IN COSTA RICA

One of the most common questions I receive from prospective expats is “How much do I really need to live well in Costa Rica?” The answer depends on your lifestyle, location, and expectations. However, we can draw on current data to define realistic ranges.

For a single person, the cost of living in Costa Rica, including utilities, public transportation, groceries, and dining out a few times a week, is approximately $919 USD per month, or ₡464,500 Costa Rican colones. Add modest rent, and you’re looking at $1,700 USD–$2,200 USD per month for a comfortable lifestyle. A more minimalist setup, such as living outside city centres, preparing most meals at home, and using public transportation, can reduce costs to approximately $1,500 USD per month.

For a family of four, the average monthly base cost is $3,349 USD, excluding rent. Realistically, most expat families will spend between $4,400 USD and $5,000 USD per month, including rent. Those opting for international schools, private healthcare, beach communities, or employing domestic help can expect monthly budgets of $6,000 USD to $8,000 USD or more. While this is not a low-cost country by regional standards, many families find the quality of life and access to services justify the expense.

Related content: 4 Best Cities In Costa Rica

HOUSING COSTS: RENT AND REAL ESTATE

Housing is one of the biggest line items in any expat budget. In Costa Rica, prices vary significantly depending on location. You’ll pay a premium to live in San José, Escazú, or beach towns with strong tourist infrastructure. However, smaller towns in the Central Valley or more rural areas offer considerably lower prices.

If you are considering purchasing a property, Costa Rica permits foreigners to own land outright. The current average purchase prices per square metre are approximately $2,570 USD in city centres and $1,400 USD outside. Do note that mortgage interest rates in Costa Rica remain high, at around 7.61% annually, so most expats opt for cash purchases.

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GROCERY COSTS: LOCAL PRODUCE VS IMPORTS

One of the advantages of living in Costa Rica is access to fresh, local food. Produce, chicken, dairy, and fish are generally affordable. However, if you prefer imported goods, brand-name snacks, or international wine and spirits, expect to pay a premium due to import duties. You can find the costs of some common grocery items in the table below.  

DINING OUT: FROM LOCAL SODAS TO INTERNATIONAL DINING

You can find any dining option in Costa Rica, from local “sodas” (simple Costa Rican eateries) to mid-range or international restaurants. Costs of different dining options are shown in the table below.  

A moderate dining-out budget might range from $200 to $ 400 USD per month per person, depending on frequency and personal preferences.

Related content: What To Expect In Costa Rica As An Expat

TRANSPORTATION

Public transportation is accessible and inexpensive in most parts of the country. Owning a car, however, is more costly than in North America due to high import taxes and the price of fuel. The table below provides a good overview of transportation costs in Costa Rica.  

For those living in rural or remote areas, a personal vehicle is often necessary. In cities or planned communities, many expats rely comfortably on buses and taxis.

UTILITIES, INTERNET, AND MOBILE SERVICES

Costa Rica’s infrastructure is strong and improving, particularly in urban and developed coastal areas. Electricity and water are reliable, and fibre-optic internet is available in most populated regions. Here are some of the costs of utilities in Costa Rica.  

HEALTHCARE ADVANTAGES

Costa Rica offers universal public healthcare through its national system (Caja), which is accessible to residents, including expats. Many expats also opt for private health insurance for faster access to services. Private health insurance in Costa Rica typically costs between $100 and $350 USD per month for most expats.

Costa Rica offers many advantages in terms of healthcare services compared to the U.S. and Canada. Although the U.S. has top-notch private hospitals, healthcare is very expensive and sometimes unpredictable. Basic healthcare insurance in the U.S. starts around $400 USD; however, it typically excludes many healthcare services. Canada is a completely different story, as private healthcare is very limited, and public hospitals are overloaded and underfunded. Compared to these so-called developed countries, Costa Rica offers high-quality healthcare services at affordable fees.      

San José, Capital of Costa Rica

A COMPARISON TO THE U.S. AND CANADA

When comparing the cost of living in Costa Rica with both Canada and the United States, it becomes clear that North American countries are considerably more expensive across the board.

Starting with the basic cost of living (excluding rent), Canada is 20.1% more expensive than Costa Rica, while the United States is even higher at 28.4%. When housing is included, the difference becomes more striking. Canada is 31.2% more expensive, while the U.S. is 48.5% more expensive than Costa Rica.

Rent is where the largest gaps appear. Rent prices in Canada are 69.9% higher, but in the United States, they soar to 118.8% higher than in Costa Rica. This means housing affordability in Costa Rica is significantly better, especially for expats or retirees on a fixed income.

In short, Costa Rica offers a more affordable lifestyle, particularly in terms of rent and day-to-day expenses, making it an attractive option for those seeking to reduce costs. 

Related content: The Beauty Of Living In Costa Rica As An Expat

Escazú is one of the most popular cities in Costa Rica among expats, located seven kilometres west of San José

CONCLUSION

Costa Rica offers a truly rewarding lifestyle. While certain aspects, such as owning a vehicle or buying imported goods, may come with a learning curve, these are minor trade-offs in a country that provides so much in return. With its peaceful society, natural beauty, and reliable infrastructure, Costa Rica delivers a lifestyle that feels easy, enjoyable, and well-rounded.

For those who value safety, access to nature, modern services, and a relaxed pace of life, Costa Rica stands out as an exceptional destination. Whether you’re retiring, raising a family, or working remotely, you’ll find a welcoming environment where everyday life is simpler, slower, and more connected to what truly matters.

Best of all, the cost of living in Costa Rica is noticeably lower than in North America. You can enjoy the same level of comfort, or even upgrade your lifestyle, while spending less on housing, healthcare, and daily essentials. 

If you’re thinking about building your Plan-B in Costa Rica, start your journey by downloading our free special report on "Plan-B Residencies & Instant Citizenships."