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Costa Rica | Is the cost of living in Costa Rica high? | Expat Exchange
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Costa Ballena, Costa Rica

Is the cost of living in Costa Rica high?

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We asked people about the cost of living in Costa Rica, they wrote...

"The cost of living in Costa Rica is generally considered to be quite affordable, with prices being considerably lower than many other parts of Central America. However, some areas in Costa Rica have a much higher cost of living compared to the rest of the country. For example, cities like San Jose and certain areas in the Limon province tend to have prices that are higher than in more rural areas. On average, a nice one-bedroom apartment in the capital of San Jose costs around $650 per month in rent. Rent for a two-bedroom apartment usually ranges from $850 - $1,000 depending on the area. Eating at a moderately priced restaurant in Costa Rica typically ranges from $7 - $15 per person, depending on what is ordered," explained one expat living in Costa Rica.

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"Many beach locations in Costa Rica are expensive. However, Playa Jaco has a strong mix of locals and tourists which helps to keep the cost of living lower. You will find many types of housing here from single family, condominium complexes and beachfront homes in a multitude of price ranges to fit all budgets. The community has a local farmers market (feria) which is always a good deal to purchase locally from regional farmers. The price of fresh fish is an incredible value. Costa Rica is one of the more expensive countries in Central America but shopping locally in Playa Jaco can provide good savings. Due to it's proximity to the beach (and the Equator), one of your largest expenses will be electricity. The beaches are very hot all year around. Typically property taxes are low in all of Costa Rica and Playa Jaco is no different," said another expat in Playa Jaco, Costa Rica.

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Is the cost of living in Costa Rica high?

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About the Author

Joshua Wood 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.

Costa Ballena, Costa Rica
Immigration Help Costa Rica
Immigration Help Costa Rica

Costa Rica Legal Residency is a bi-lingual boutique firm with 15 + years of successful experience on Residency, Renewals, Digital Nomad, and Citizenship.
Learn More

Immigration Help Costa RicaImmigration Help Costa Rica

Costa Rica Legal Residency is a bi-lingual boutique firm with 15 + years of successful experience on Residency, Renewals, Digital Nomad, and Citizenship.
Learn More

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