Cost of Living in Costa Rica: Are you planning to study in Costa Rica? This beautiful country not only offers world-class education but also an affordable lifestyle for students. The cost of living in Costa Rica is relatively low compared to many other countries, making it easier for students to manage their expenses.
Whether you choose to live in the lively city center or a peaceful rural area, you’ll find budget-friendly options for housing, food, transportation, and even healthcare. Costa Rica allows students to focus on their studies while enjoying its stunning landscapes, friendly locals, and vibrant culture—all without breaking the bank. In this blog, we will share everything you need to know about the cost of living in Costa Rica. Let’s get started.
Table of contents
- Understanding The Cost of Living in Costa Rica in 2025
- Rental Costs in Costa Rica
- Average Tuition Fees in Costa Rica
- Utility Costs in Costa Rica
- Food & Groceries Costs in Costa Rica
- Transportation Costs in Costa Rica
- Healthcare Expenses in Costa Rica
- Entertainment and Leisure Costs in Costa Rica
- Cost of Living in Costa Rica Compared to Other Cities and Countries
- Tips for Managing Costs in Costa Rica
- FAQs on Cost of Living in Costa Rica
Understanding The Cost of Living in Costa Rica in 2025
The average cost of living in Costa Rica for a single person is approximately CRC 447,879.9 per month, excluding rent. For a family of four, the estimated monthly costs are around CRC 1,635,280.9 without rent. When compared to India, the cost of living in Costa Rica is 164.1% higher on average. While Costa Rica provides a high quality of life with its natural beauty and vibrant culture, it’s important to be mindful of the higher living expenses.
Rental Costs in Costa Rica
The cost of living in Costa Rica can vary significantly based on where you choose to live. Rent is often one of the largest expenses for students. Apartments in the city center tend to be more expensive due to their proximity to amenities, transportation, and universities. On the other hand, living outside the city center can offer more affordable options. The table below provides a clear comparison of average housing costs in both city centers and rural areas, helping you make a more informed decision about where to live while managing your budget effectively.
| Apartment Type | Average Cost |
| 1 Bedroom in City Centre | CRC 392,388.30 |
| 1 Bedroom Outside of Centre | CRC 274,136.96 |
| 3 Bedrooms in City Centre | CRC 747,669.72 |
| 3 Bedrooms Outside of Centre | CRC 520,345.70 |
Average Tuition Fees in Costa Rica
Migrating to Costa Rica for your higher education is a great choice. In Costa Rica, tuition fees for higher education vary significantly between public and private institutions. Public universities offer more affordable education, with annual fees as low as CRC 8,359,011 largely due to government subsidies. In contrast, private universities can charge much higher fees, ranging up to CRC 24,540,498 CRC , reflecting the reliance on private funding and the premium services, smaller class sizes, and specialized programs they offer.
Utility Costs in Costa Rica
Utility costs in Costa Rica are affordable. For an 85m² apartment, basic utilities like electricity, water, heating, cooling, and garbage usually cost around CRC 42,362.75 per month. These costs can vary depending on your usage, but in general, they are much cheaper compared to many other countries. It’s an affordable way to enjoy essential services while living in Costa Rica. Below is the table showing the average utility bill:
| Service | Average Cost (Monthly) |
| Basic (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage) for 85m² Apartment | CRC 42,362.75 |
| Mobile Phone Monthly Plan with Calls and 10GB+ Data | CRC 13,037.75 |
| Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL) | CRC 27,291.24 |
Food & Groceries Costs in Costa Rica
In Costa Rica, food costs vary based on where and what you eat. A simple meal at an inexpensive restaurant typically costs around CRC 5,000. If you’re dining at a mid-range restaurant, a three-course meal for two can cost around CRC 30,000. Overall, food in Costa Rica offers options for all budgets, from casual to more expensive meals.
However, cooking at home is a more affordable option that allows you to save money and enjoy healthy meals. To help you plan your grocery budget, we’ve provided a list of common grocery items and their prices in Costa Rica.
| Items | Average Cost |
| Milk (regular), (1 liter) | CRC 1,010.93 |
| Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g) | CRC 1,565.74 |
| Rice (white), (1kg) | CRC 1,179.12 |
| Eggs (regular) (12) | CRC 1,749.51 |
| Local Cheese (1kg) | CRC 4,469.87 |
| Chicken Fillets (1kg) | CRC 4,790.40 |
| Apples (1kg) | CRC 2,276.59 |
| Banana (1kg) | CRC 796.24 |
| Oranges (1kg) | CRC 1,556.51 |
| Tomato (1kg) | CRC 1,431.14 |
| Potato (1kg) | CRC 1,378.51 |
| Onion (1kg) | CRC 1,392.29 |
| Lettuce (1 head) | CRC 508.35 |
| Water (1.5 liter bottle) | CRC 1,228.95 |
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Transportation Costs in Costa Rica
Getting around Costa Rica is simple and affordable, which is a big part of the cost of living in Costa Rica. Whether you’re in the city or exploring the countryside, there are many transportation options that fit different budgets. Public buses are a cheap way to travel, while taxis offer a more comfortable choice. Even for longer trips, gasoline prices are reasonable, making it easy and cost-effective to get around the country. For your reference, we have given an overview of the cost of transportation in the Costa Rica.
| Mode of Transport | Average Cost |
| One-way Ticket (Local Transport) | CRC 500 |
| Monthly Pass (Regular Price) | CRC 20,800.00 |
| Taxi Start (Normal Tariff) | CRC 915 |
| Taxi 1km (Normal Tariff) | CRC 999.31 |
| Taxi 1 hour Waiting (Normal Tariff) | CRC 3,725.00 |
| Gasoline (1 liter) | CRC 746.64 |
Healthcare Expenses in Costa Rica
Healthcare costs in Costa Rica are much more affordable for students compared to countries like the U.S. Students can benefit from the national healthcare system, “Caja,” which offers high-quality care at a low cost. Legal residents can sign up for this system, which is considered one of the best in the world for affordability and service.
International students often choose private health insurance to gain quicker access to doctors and services. A doctor’s visit typically costs around CRC 70, and basic medications, like cold medicine, are usually about CRC 6. This makes it easier for students to stay healthy without worrying about high medical bills.
Entertainment and Leisure Costs in Costa Rica
In Costa Rica, entertainment and leisure activities come with various price tags, and these costs are an important part of the cost of living in Costa Rica. A monthly fitness club membership for one adult costs CRC 29,983.20, while renting a tennis court for an hour on the weekend is priced at CRC 15,308.33. These costs highlight the mix of affordable and premium options for those looking to enjoy leisure time in the country. Here is a table for reference:
| Item | Average Cost |
| Fitness Club, Monthly Fee for 1 Adult | CRC 29,983.20 |
| Tennis Court Rent (1 Hour on Weekend) | CRC 15,308.33 |
| Cinema, International Release, 1 Seat | CRC 4,000.00 |
| 1 Pair of Brand Jeans | CRC 37,797.23 |
| 1 Pair of Brand Shoes | CRC 60,178.20 |
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Cost of Living in Costa Rica Compared to Other Cities and Countries
In general, Costa Rica offers a more affordable cost of living compared to many other cities and countries. To give you an idea, we’ve compared the cost of living in Costa Rica with places like the USA, Canada, the UK and Florida. This will help you understand how affordable it is to live in Costa Rica compared to other countries or cities. Take a look at the comparison below:
| Cost of living city/country wise | Approx Costs | Comparison with Cost of Living in Costa Rica |
| Cost of Living in the USA | CRC 597759 | Higher than Costa Rica |
| Cost of Living in Canada | CRC 541488 | Higher than Costa Rica |
| Cost of Living in the UK | CRC 526114 | Higher than Costa Rica |
| Cost of Living in Florida | CRC 612144 | Higher than Costa Rica |
Tips for Managing Costs in Costa Rica
Living in Costa Rica offers students an affordable and enjoyable experience in a beautiful, vibrant country. The cost of living in Costa Rica is lower than in many other countries, but managing your expenses is important to make the most of your time. Here are some easy tips to help you save money and enjoy your stay in Costa Rica.
- Housing is generally cheaper outside the bustling city. Consider renting an apartment in a quieter neighborhood or smaller town to save on rent.
- Public buses and trains are affordable and widely available. Using local transport can save you money compared to taxis or private vehicles.
- Eating out can add up quickly. Save money by shopping at local markets and preparing your own meals.
- Fresh fruits, vegetables, and other essentials are often much cheaper at local markets than in supermarkets or international stores.
- Costa Rica has an excellent healthcare system. Opting for a national healthcare plan or affordable private health insurance can save you money on medical expenses.
- Imported goods tend to be more expensive. Try to buy local products whenever possible, as they are generally cheaper.
- Many businesses and attractions offer discounts for students. Don’t forget to ask if any special offers are available!
- Keep track of your expenses and create a budget to ensure you’re living within your means. Being mindful of your spending will help you stay on track financially.
In conclusion, Costa Rica offers an affordable cost of living, with reasonable prices for housing, utilities, food, and transportation. The country’s healthcare system is both accessible and of high quality, making it an attractive option for students. Whether in the city or rural areas, Costa Rica provides a comfortable lifestyle at a lower cost compared to many other countries.
We hope you enjoyed reading our blog on the cost of living in Costa Rica. For a stress-free stay during your study abroad adventure, choose Fly Homes. Call 1800572118 to reserve your ideal student accommodation abroad with ease.
FAQs on Cost of Living in Costa Rica
The average cost of living for a single person in Costa Rica is approximately CRC 447,879.9 per month, not including rent. This includes costs for food, utilities, transportation, and other everyday expenses, making Costa Rica an affordable destination for students.
Yes, the cost of living in Costa Rica is significantly higher than in India. It is about 164.1% more expensive on average. Factors like higher rent, transportation, and food costs contribute to this difference, although Costa Rica offers a higher standard of living in return.
Rental costs in Costa Rica depend largely on location. For instance, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs around CRC 392,388.30, while the same type of apartment outside the city center is more affordable at approximately CRC 274,136.96. Rural areas are generally cheaper than urban centers.
Costa Rica offers affordable higher education options, especially in public universities, where annual tuition fees can be as low as CRC 8,359,011 due to government subsidies. Private universities tend to be more expensive, with tuition fees reaching up to CRC 24,540,498, reflecting the reliance on private funding.
Healthcare in Costa Rica is affordable and accessible, especially with the national healthcare system, “Caja,” which offers quality care at a low cost. Students can benefit from this system, with doctor visits costing around CRC 70 and basic medications like cold medicine priced at around CRC 6.
Yes, many businesses and attractions in Costa Rica offer discounts for students. Whether you’re visiting museums, entertainment venues, or even restaurants, it’s always a good idea to ask about student discounts to save on your expenses.
You can save on transportation costs by using public buses, which are inexpensive at just CRC 500 per one-way trip. If you plan to travel frequently, purchasing a monthly pass for CRC 20,800 will help you save more on transportation expenses.
Yes, the cost of living in Costa Rica is generally higher in major cities like San José and Escazú. Rent and dining out in these areas can be more expensive compared to rural regions, with city center apartments often costing more. However, rural areas offer a more affordable option for those on a budget.
To live cost-effectively in Costa Rica, consider renting in smaller towns or rural areas where rent is cheaper. Shopping at local markets, cooking at home, and using public transportation are other great ways to cut down on living expenses. Avoiding tourist-heavy areas will also help keep costs lower.
The cost of living in Costa Rica is generally slightly higher than in Mexico, especially when it comes to rent and utilities. While both countries offer affordable lifestyles, Costa Rica’s expat-friendly atmosphere, higher-quality healthcare, and stable political environment make it a more appealing option for some.
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