127 cities covered · Currency: CRC (₡) · Capital: San José
| Expense | Estimated cost | Basis |
|---|---|---|
| Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | ₡3,307 ($6.36) | per meal |
| Three-course meal for two, mid-range | ₡13,229 ($25.44) | per meal |
| Cappuccino | ₡992 ($1.91) | each |
| Monthly groceries (single person) | ₡74,963 ($144) | per month |
| Monthly public transport pass | ₡12,126 ($23.32) | per month |
| Basic utilities for an 85m² apartment | ₡31,970 ($61.48) | per month |
| Internet (60 Mbps, unlimited) | ₡9,260 ($17.81) | per month |
| Fitness club membership | ₡9,260 ($17.81) | per month |
| Cinema ticket | ₡2,425 ($4.66) | each |
| One-bedroom apartment in city centre | ₡141,500 ($272) | per month |
| One-bedroom apartment outside centre | ₡98,435 ($189) | per month |
| Three-bedroom apartment in city centre | ₡295,304 ($568) | per month |
San José · pop. 335,007
Alajuela · pop. 198,742
Alajuela · pop. 93,264
Puntarenas · pop. 87,500
Guanacaste · pop. 72,366
Limón · pop. 71,514
Guanacaste · pop. 66,268
Guanacaste · pop. 65,922
Heredia · pop. 59,546
Limón · pop. 49,606
Heredia · pop. 48,848
Alajuela · pop. 46,647
Puntarenas · pop. 46,351
Heredia · pop. 45,932
Limón · pop. 45,329
San José · pop. 45,324
Alajuela · pop. 44,374
Alajuela · pop. 42,060
Alajuela · pop. 39,148
Heredia · pop. 39,133
Limón · pop. 36,469
Alajuela · pop. 36,207
Puntarenas · pop. 34,808
Cartago · pop. 33,398
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Costa Rica
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Costa Rica
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Costa Rica
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Costa Rica
Living costs in Costa Rica vary significantly depending on city size. Large metropolitan areas with populations over one million typically see housing costs 15–30% above the national average, while smaller towns can be 10–20% below it. The national baseline of ₡318,915 ($613) per month represents a mid-sized city estimate.
Capital cities and major economic hubs command the highest rents and overall expenses. For budget-conscious residents, mid-sized cities offer a balance of amenities and affordability. Rural and small-town living remains the most economical option, though transport and service access may be limited.