Is the thought of moving to Costa Rica in your plans?
Did you know that the overall cost of living in Costa Rica is much cheaper than in the United States?
If this sounds like somewhere you could see yourself living, you’re in for a real treat.
However, chances are you have a budget that you would like to stick to.
If this sounds like you, you can use this guide to help you during your research on finding the most affordable places to live in Costa Rica.
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10 of the Cheapest Places to Live in Costa Rica
1. Cartago
First on the list for affordable living in Costa Rica is Cartago.
Cartago is located in the central region of Costa Rica and is just 13 miles from San Jose, which is the capital city.
The average rent paid for a one-bedroom apartment in Cartago is $424 per month.
However, this is if you choose to live in the downtown area, as rent tends to be cheaper outside the city.
Utilities average around $76 per month.
Cartago offers plenty of attractions, including El Salto de La Novia Waterfall, Lankester Gardens, Tapanti National Park, and Fossil Land.
2. Limon
Also on the list of being one of the cheapest cities in Costa Rica is Limon.
Limon is located along the Caribbean coast.
It is known for its natural beauty and is surrounded by mountains.
The average rent can range anywhere from $500 to $600 per month.
The cost of groceries averages around $450 per month, while the cost of utilities varies anywhere between $150 and $200 per month.
One person can comfortably live off $1200 to $1,350 per month.
Limon offers many attractions nearby, including Playa Negra, Playa Chiquita, Cocles, Gandoca Manzanillo National Refuge, and Cahuita.
3. Grecia
Grecia also made the list of places offering affordable living in Costa Rica.
For a single person living alone in Grecia, the average cost of living each month is between $1,000 and $1,500.
Nearly 17,000 people call Grecia home, as it is located within the Alajuela province.
The overall cost of living in Grecia is nearly 25% cheaper than in other areas of the country.
If you are looking for a slower pace of life, Grecia is the perfect location.
Consider visiting the Plaza Grecia El Ingenio, Grecia Forest Reserve, or Tio Jose Coffee Tour.
4. Liberia
Liberia has a population of 50,000 and is considered to be the largest city in Guanacaste.
It’s just one of many provinces located in Costa Rica.
Liberia is a wonderful place to consider living if you are looking for affordability.
For a two-bedroom home, the average monthly cost can range anywhere from $750 to $1,200.
In addition, you can even find much lower costs if you head on over to the lower coast of Liberia.
There are plenty of things to do in Liberia, as it is close to resorts and beaches.
Some of these beaches include Brasilito, Potrero, and Flamingo.
You can also visit the Rio Celeste Waterfall, Sloth Sanctuary, Arenal Volcano, and Hot Springs Day Trip.
5. Tamarindo
Tamarindo is next on the list for being one of the most affordable places to live in Costa Rica.
It is also a very well-known area for tourists.
People love surfing and enjoying the beaches in Tamarindo.
Renting in Tamarindo can range anywhere from $400 to $3,000 per month.
However, this depends on your lifestyle preferences.
All in all, it’s still possible to survive comfortably on $1,000 per month in Tamarindo.
Some of the best places to visit in Tamarindo include Playa Tamarindo and Playa Langosta.
Plan on spending a lot of time on the beaches or playing water sports if you move here.
6. Playas del Coco
Playas del Coco is located in the northwestern region of Costa Rica.
Playa del Coco is known as a beach town and is well known among both tourists and locals.
It is an excellent place to live if you’re looking for an affordable place in Costa Rica.
Rental prices start at just $400 for a one-bedroom in Playas del Coco.
However, the monthly amount does not include utilities, security, etc.
If you budget carefully, you can probably spend at least $150 a month on food.
Even still, you can live comfortably on $1,000 per month.
Some things to do in Playas del Coco include Coco Water Taxis, Costa Rica One-on-One Tours, and Rajas Bros Boruca Indigenous Arts.
7. Lake Arenal
Lake Arenal is located in the Arenal region of Costa Rica.
It’s considered extremely affordable and for very good reasons.
It is ideal for those who enjoy quiet and rural living.
The cost of living in Arenal is substantially low.
For a one-bedroom apartment alone, you can count on paying only $320 per month.
And for those who need something a little bigger, a three-bedroom apartment rents for just $640 per month.
There are also many things to do in Lake Arenal, including Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges, Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails, and Fortuna Waterfall.
8. Uvita
Uvita is considered a small beach town and is located in the southern region of Costa Rica.
Uvita is also located just three hours from San Jose.
It also offers affordable living for those contemplating moving here.
One person can live comfortably on $1,000 to $2,000 per month.
In terms of housing, rent can range anywhere from $500 to $4,000 per month, depending on the size of the unit you choose.
Uvita is a town that has become increasingly popular with retirees and tourists.
Overall, Uvita offers a relaxed atmosphere with plenty of outdoor activities, food, and festivals to partake in.
9. San Ramon
San Ramon is located just one hour away from San Jose, the capital of Costa Rica.
San Ramon is referred to as the “city of presidents and poets.”
But do you know why?
That’s because there are four Costa Rican presidents from San Ramon in addition to various artists.
San Ramon is also considered a very affordable place to live.
You can find affordable two-bedroom apartments and furnished homes within your budget.
Rent can range anywhere between $500 to $850.
San Ramon is a large city, which means there are plenty of attractions.
You’ll find everything from cafés to yoga studios in the city.
San Ramon is also home to The University of Costa Rica.
10. Dominical
Last on the list of being one of the most affordable places to live in Costa Rica is Dominical.
It is considered a surfer town, located right along the Pacific coast.
It’s also located close to Utiva and San Isidro de El General.
Rent in Dominical can vary depending on the type of home you choose to buy or rent.
There are some amazing deals around the city, including two-bedroom apartments that are fully furnished.
Rent can range anywhere from $600 to $1,000 per month.
The more amenities you receive, the more you will pay each month.
If you enjoy nature, you’ll visit the mountains and take in some amazing ocean views.
You can also check out Broken Waterfalls, Nauyaca Waterfalls, and Hacienda Baru Lodge.
Costa Rica Safety Overview
READ THE FULL REPORT: Costa Rica Safety Review
Safety Index:
- OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
- TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM
- PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH
- NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
- MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM
- TERRORISM RISK: LOW
- SCAMS RISK: HIGH
- WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM
Frequently Asked Questions
Is $1,000 enough to live off of in Costa Rica?
Yes, $1,000 is absolutely enough to live off of in Costa Rica.
However, with that budget, certain areas in the country are excluded, such as the great metropolitan area.
Moreover, $1,000 a month can adequately cover basic food, transportation, rent, and other necessities.
What amount do I need to live comfortably in Costa Rica?
To live comfortably in Costa Rica, you need to successfully budget USD 1,500 each month.
What is the cost of living in Costa Rica?
Generally speaking, the average cost of living in Costa Rica is substantially less than in other countries, including Canada and the United States.
One person can comfortably live on $1,500 per month.
However, it depends on your lifestyle.
These costs include entertainment, food, utilities, healthcare, real estate, and more.
