Is Costa Rica expensive to live in?

Costa Rica isn’t the cheapest country in Central America, but it’s not outrageous either. Daily life costs less than in most major U.S. cities — especially if you adapt to local food and lifestyle. Where it gets pricey is rent in beach towns, imported goods, and electricity if you blast the A/C all day.

What is the average rent in Costa Rica?

Rent depends on location. In San José, a two-bedroom apartment runs $600–$1,200/month. In popular beach towns or suburbs, expect $800–$1,800/month. Rural areas can be as low as $400/month — but you’ll trade off some conveniences.

How much money do I need to live comfortably in Costa Rica?

A single person can live modestly on $1,200–$1,500/month. For more comfort (A/C, private healthcare, imported snacks), budget $2,000–$3,000/month. Couples usually spend $1,500–$2,500+ depending on lifestyle and location.

What’s the cost of food in Costa Rica?

Local produce, coffee, and seafood are affordable (think avocados for $0.50, pineapples for $1, fresh fish at local markets). Imported items, though, are expensive — a jar of peanut butter can be $8 and wine can sting your wallet. Sticking to the local diet saves money and makes you healthier.

Healthcare in Costa Rica — Public vs Private & Everything In Between

Waymon Hudson
Sep 10
3 min read

Costa Rica Healthcare: What Expats Really Need to Know

Healthcare in Costa Rica is a lot like the local fruit stands — there’s something for every budget, but you should know what you’re actually biting into before you commit.

Emblem of Costa Rica’s Seguro Social, symbol of the Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS). Iconic mother-and-child sculpture representing Costa Rica’s public healthcare system.

1. The Two Big Players

Costa Rica has two main healthcare systems:

Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS or “Caja”) – the public system, funded by contributions from workers, employers, and the government.
Private Healthcare – fast, modern, English-speaking doctors, and more comfortable clinics, at higher cost.

2. Public Healthcare in Costa Rica (Caja)

Caja hospital building in Costa Rica with people entering and leaving. The CCSS, known as Caja, provides universal public healthcare coverage for residents and expats paying into the system.

Mandatory if you’re a resident.
Monthly payments: income-based, usually $75–$450.
Includes: public clinics, hospitals, preventive care, low-cost prescriptions.
Trade-offs: waits can be long, appointments harder to book, facilities crowded.

But: affordable, universal, and reliable for chronic conditions and emergencies.

3. Private Healthcare in Costa Rica

Modern hospitals & short wait times.
English-speaking doctors, many U.S. or Europe trained.
Costs: a fraction of U.S. prices (ER visits can be $150–$300, not $800+).
Insurance: around $100–$300/month, depending on age and coverage.
Many expats choose this for speed, comfort, and choice.

4. The Combo Strategy (Best of Both Worlds)

Most expats use both:

Caja for the basics, emergencies, and chronic care.
Private for fast specialist visits, comfort, and flexibility.

Think of it as gallo pinto and pancakes. 🍳🥞

5. Medications & Pharmacies in Costa Rica

Pharmacist in Costa Rica helping a woman review medication at a local farmacia. Pharmacies are common across Costa Rica, offering affordable prescriptions and over-the-counter medicines to expats and locals

Pharmacies are everywhere, even in smaller towns.
Many medications are available without a prescription (antibiotics, birth control, blood pressure meds).
Prices: often far lower than in the U.S., but you can check availability + costs on pharmacy websites or by asking at a local farmacia.
Tip: Bring prescriptions when you first arrive to compare and transition smoothly.

6. LGBTQ+ Healthcare in Costa Rica

Close-up of a doctor’s white coat with a stethoscope and a rainbow heart pin featuring the Progress Pride flag. Symbol of LGBTQ-inclusive healthcare in Costa Rica, highlighting queer-friendly medical services and affirming care for expats.

Same-sex marriages are recognized, so spouses qualify under residency benefits.
LGBTQ+ patients generally report respectful care, especially in cities and tourist areas.
Growing awareness of gender-affirming care, though access may vary regionally.

Quick Takeaway

If you’re coming from the U.S., Costa Rica’s healthcare will feel like stepping into an alternate universe — one where you can actually see a doctor before you’re on your deathbed.

👉 Public care (Caja) is affordable and universal.

👉 Private care is fast, modern, and still cheaper than U.S. prices.

👉 Together? You get reliable coverage, quick appointments, and freedom from $800 ER bills.

Also check out the rest of the Pura Vida Diaries Series:

FAQ: Costa Rica Healthcare

Is healthcare in Costa Rica good?

Yes. Costa Rica has one of the best healthcare systems in Latin America, with both affordable public care (Caja) and modern private hospitals.

How much does healthcare cost in Costa Rica?

Caja contributions are $75–$450/month depending on income. Private insurance averages $100–$300/month, with out-of-pocket visits far cheaper than in the U.S.

Can expats use the public healthcare system in Costa Rica?

Yes. Residents are required to join Caja, which provides universal coverage, prescriptions, and hospital access.

Is medication affordable in Costa Rica?

Yes. Many medications are available without prescription, and prices are often lower than in the U.S. Costs can be checked directly at local pharmacies (farmacias).

Does Costa Rica offer LGBTQ-friendly healthcare?

Yes. Same-sex marriages are recognized, so spouses qualify for residency benefits. Care is generally respectful and inclusive, especially in urban areas.