Cost of Living Costa Rica

While the cost of living in Costa Rica is much cheaper than anywhere in North America or Europe, your individual lifestyle, quality expectations and personal preferences will have a big influence on your cost of living in this country just as it would no matter where you live.

That being said, many of the comforts that North Americans consider extravagant luxuries at home, are an absolute bargain here, making a huge increase in lifestyle with little added costs. Here you can hire a maid, a gardener and a cook for $1.25 per hour.

Housing costs (depending on the area) are still about 1/3 of what they are in North America. Taxes are about 10% and utilities such as electricity, water and telephone, are about 40-50% of the cost of what we are used to. Heating and cooling costs are minimal because of the temperate climate.

Food costs would likely be less than half what you would spend at home and you would probably eat much better quality food and more fresh local produce. You can eat in a restaurant for $5.00 to $10.00 per meal. Soft drinks are $.50 and beer about $1.00.

Health and dental care costs are about 10% of what you would pay in the US. Electronics,luxury goods and cars cost roughly the same as we are used to the main difference being you may not be able to find exactly what you are looking for or as good a quality product. Many people choose to import higher end appliances etc. for their home and pay the shipping and taxes to do so.

Click here for more detailed information on the daily living costs.

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