Alajuela, Alajuela, Costa Rica · Population 44,374
▼ -16% vs Costa Rica average
| Expense | Estimated cost | Basis |
|---|---|---|
| Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | ₡2,808 ($5.40) | per meal |
| Three-course meal for two, mid-range | ₡11,232 ($21.60) | per meal |
| Cappuccino | ₡842 ($1.62) | each |
| Monthly groceries (single person) | ₡63,648 ($122) | per month |
| Monthly public transport pass | ₡10,296 ($19.80) | per month |
| Basic utilities for an 85m² apartment | ₡27,144 ($52.20) | per month |
| Internet (60 Mbps, unlimited) | ₡7,862 ($15.12) | per month |
| Fitness club membership | ₡7,862 ($15.12) | per month |
| Cinema ticket | ₡2,059 ($3.96) | each |
| One-bedroom apartment in city centre | ₡115,326 ($222) | per month |
| One-bedroom apartment outside centre | ₡80,227 ($154) | per month |
| Three-bedroom apartment in city centre | ₡240,680 ($463) | per month |
The estimated average net salary in Alajuela is ₡421,200 ($810) per month. To live comfortably — covering the full single-person budget of ₡267,427 ($514) with about 30% left over for savings — you would need a net income of roughly ₡347,655 ($669) per month.
Housing takes the largest share: rent for a one-bedroom outside the centre (₡80,227 ($154)) represents about 30% of the total single-person budget.
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₡299,520 ($576) / moAlajuela is one of the key cities in Costa Rica. The estimated monthly cost of living for a single person is ₡267,427 ($514), placing it below the national average. Housing represents the largest expense, with a one-bedroom apartment outside the city centre costing around ₡80,227 ($154) per month.
For families, the estimated budget rises to ₡617,701 ($1,188) per month, driven mainly by larger housing needs and increased food and transport spending. Couples can expect to spend approximately ₡476,353 ($916) monthly.
The average estimated net salary in Alajuela is ₡421,200 ($810). To maintain a comfortable lifestyle with room for savings, a single person typically needs a net income of at least ₡347,655 ($669) per month.