What Is the Average Salary in Costa Rica?

Costa Rica presents a dynamic economic landscape with steady growth and a welcoming environment for foreign investment. The nation has solidified its position as a development success story, benefiting from its openness to global markets and trade liberalization. This economic stability supports a growing gross domestic product, which expanded by 4.3% in 2024, fueled by robust domestic demand. These conditions contribute to a rising standard of living and a reduction in poverty rates.

The National Average Salary

The national average salary in Costa Rica provides insight into the country’s earning potential. According to data from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) for 2022, the average annual salary was approximately USD 25,881.07, translating to about USD 2,148.51 per month. Other reports indicate a monthly average closer to USD 820 as of April 2024. These figures represent gross salaries before deductions for social security and income taxes.

The median salary offers a more accurate picture of typical earnings by mitigating the skewing effect of very high incomes. In Costa Rica, the median monthly income is reported at 2,140,000 Costa Rican Colones (CRC), which converts to approximately USD 4,190.87. This figure suggests a substantial portion of the workforce earns less than the average, highlighting income distribution disparities. The Costa Rican government also sets minimum wages, which in 2024 ranged from USD 687 for unskilled workers to USD 1,523 for university graduates.

The labor market has shown resilience, with an unemployment rate of 7% in late 2024 and early 2025, alongside an increasing labor force participation rate. The country’s commitment to a strong minimum wage, recognized as the highest in Latin America, contributes to the general wage structure.

Key Factors Affecting Salaries

Individual salaries in Costa Rica diverge significantly from the national average based on several influencing factors. The industry in which one is employed plays a substantial role, with sectors like technology, manufacturing, and finance generally offering higher compensation compared to traditional areas such as agriculture. Some international companies in Costa Rica pay engineering roles between USD 40,000 and USD 70,000 annually. The thriving service sector, accounting for a large portion of the GDP, also presents diverse earning opportunities.

Educational attainment and specialized skills directly impact earning potential. Individuals with university degrees command higher salaries, with the minimum wage for university graduates set at CRC 638,000 (approximately USD 1,523) in 2024. Proficiency in languages, particularly English, and technical certifications are highly valued, opening doors to better-paying positions, especially within multinational corporations. Continuous professional development and new skills can significantly enhance an individual’s marketability and salary prospects.

Experience level is another determinant of salary progression within Costa Rica’s job market. As professionals accumulate years of experience, their value to employers increases, leading to higher compensation packages. This progression is evident across various roles, from entry-level positions to senior management. The depth of experience often correlates with increased responsibilities and leadership opportunities, which are reflected in salary adjustments.

Geographic location within Costa Rica also creates notable salary disparities. Urban centers, particularly the greater metropolitan area of San José, offer higher average incomes due to a greater concentration of businesses, industries, and job opportunities. For example, urban households reported an average monthly income of USD 2,340.07, significantly more than rural households, which averaged USD 1,435.79. The Central Valley, encompassing cities like Heredia, Alajuela, and Cartago, benefits from this economic concentration, attracting skilled labor and offering more competitive salaries.

Cost of Living Context

Understanding the cost of living in Costa Rica provides context for evaluating the purchasing power of an average salary. While lower than in the United States, expenses can vary, especially in popular tourist destinations. A single person might anticipate monthly expenses ranging from USD 1,600 to USD 2,000, while a couple could expect to spend between USD 2,500 and USD 3,000 to maintain a comfortable lifestyle.

Housing represents a significant portion of monthly expenses. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the San José metropolitan area typically ranges from USD 541 to USD 1,400 per month. Outside major cities, unfurnished apartments can be found for as low as USD 400 to USD 600 monthly. Property taxes are notably low, often around 0.25% of the assessed value, which contributes to lower overall housing costs for homeowners.

Food costs are reasonable, particularly for those who prioritize local produce and markets over imported or processed goods. A single person’s monthly grocery bill could be around USD 350. Dining out at local eateries, known as “sodas,” is affordable, with meals typically costing between USD 8 and USD 10. Mid-range restaurants usually charge between USD 18 and USD 25 per meal.

Transportation expenses are also a consideration, with public buses offering the most economical option, costing between USD 0.30 and USD 15 per ride, or approximately USD 37.58 for a monthly pass. Taxis and ride-sharing services are available but are more expensive. Fuel prices in Costa Rica are higher than in the United States, often exceeding USD 5 per gallon.

Utilities, including electricity, water, and internet, average around USD 100 per month for a household. Monthly electricity bills range from USD 50 to USD 150, water bills are low at USD 10 to USD 15, and internet services cost between USD 30 and USD 50. The country’s tropical climate means there is no need for heating expenses.

Healthcare in Costa Rica is accessible and more affordable than many Western countries, featuring both public and private options. The public healthcare system, known as Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS) or “Caja,” requires monthly contributions based on income, between 7% and 11% of salary. For those opting for private care, a doctor’s visit costs USD 60 to USD 75, while a specialist visit is around USD 100. Private health insurance plans are also available, with monthly premiums ranging from USD 60 to USD 250.