💰Costa Rica Cost of Living: What to Expect

Costa Rica continues to attract expats, remote workers, and retirees for one key reason: affordability without sacrificing quality of life. Whether you prefer beach towns or mountain valleys, you’ll find it’s significantly less expensive than most parts of North America.

Housing is more accessible, healthcare is high-quality and affordable, and property taxes are typically well under $1,000 per year. Here’s a detailed look at cost-of-living estimates by region, including housing, utilities, food, insurance, and everyday expenses.

🌴 Guanacaste Province

Tamarindo

A vibrant surf and tourist town with restaurants, nightlife, and a walkable beach lifestyle.

• Housing: Condos start around $225,000

• Rent: $1,000–$2,000/month (1–2 bed)

• Utilities: $100–$200/month (depending on A/C usage)

• Groceries: $300–$500/month for a couple

• Dining out: $10–$15 for casual meals; $50+ for fine dining

• Transportation: $200–$300/month (car or golf cart)

• Health & Home Insurance: $80–$150/month (private health insurance and home/renter’s insurance)

💡 Bottom line: Expect to spend $2,300–$3,650/month for a comfortable lifestyle.

Playas del Coco

An established beach town with a large expat population and easy airport access.

• Housing: From $175,000

• Rent: $900–$1,800/month

• Utilities: $80–$150/month

• Groceries: $250–$450/month

• Dining out: Similar to Tamarindo

• Transportation: Car or scooter

• Health & Home Insurance: $70–$140/month

💡 Bottom line: Around $2,070–$3,280/month depending on housing and lifestyle.

Samara

Chill beach vibe with a strong local community feel.

• Housing: From $150,000

• Rent: $700–$1,500/month

• Utilities: $75–$125/month

• Groceries: $250–$400/month

• Dining out: Casual and affordable

• Transportation: Walkable or scooter

• Health & Home Insurance: $60–$120/month

💡 Bottom line: Many singles and couples live well on $1,900–$2,820/month.

🌊 Puntarenas Province

Jacó

Urban beach town close to San José with high-rises and nightlife.

• Housing: From $175,000

• Rent: $900–$2,000/month

• Utilities: $100–$200/month

• Groceries: $300–$500/month

• Dining out: Wide range from local to upscale

• Transportation: Many expats walk or use taxis

• Health & Home Insurance: $70–$140/month

💡 Bottom line: $2,270–$3,840/month for most expats.

Quepos / Manuel Antonio

Popular with nature lovers and national park visitors.

• Housing: From $200,000

• Rent: $1,000–$2,000/month

• Utilities: $100–$175/month

• Groceries: $300–$500/month

• Dining out: More expensive due to tourism

• Transportation: Car or taxi recommended

• Health & Home Insurance: $80–$150/month

💡 Bottom line: Comfortable lifestyle around $2,380–$3,975/month.

Santa Teresa

Trendy, remote surf town drawing digital nomads and creatives.

• Housing: From $250,000

• Rent: $1,200–$2,500/month

• Utilities: $120–$200/month

• Groceries: $350–$550/month

• Dining out: International cuisine, slightly higher prices

• Transportation: 4x4 vehicle or ATV recommended

• Health & Home Insurance: $90–$160/month

💡 Bottom line: $2,810–$4,160/month with added transport/infrastructure costs.

🌋 Alajuela Province

La Fortuna

A popular inland destination with natural hot springs and volcano views.

• Housing: From $140,000

• Rent: $600–$1,400/month

• Utilities: $60–$120/month

• Groceries: $250–$400/month

• Dining out: Casual and budget-friendly

• Transportation: Car preferred

• Health & Home Insurance: $50–$100/month

💡 Bottom line: Many expats live well on $1,710–$2,520/month.

The Central Valley (Atenas, Grecia, San Ramón)

Known for its mild climate, healthcare access, and relaxed pace.

• Housing: From $125,000

• Rent: $600–$1,200/month

• Utilities: $60–$100/month (no A/C needed)

• Groceries: $250–$400/month

• Dining out: Local sodas and bakeries are very affordable

• Transportation: Walkable towns or bus system

• Health & Home Insurance: $50–$100/month

💡 Bottom line: Expats can live comfortably for $1,520–$2,300/month.

✅ Final Thoughts

Costa Rica offers a wide range of living options, and no two towns are exactly alike — but across the board, it’s more affordable than comparable destinations in North America.

You’ll enjoy:

• Lower housing costs

• Affordable, quality healthcare

• Fresh, local food options

• Lower insurance costs compared to North America

• A slower pace of life with high quality living

Whether you're on a fixed income, working remotely, or looking to semi-retire in paradise, Costa Rica delivers value, beauty, and lifestyle — all at a cost that’s refreshingly attainable.