Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the Costa Rica Property Pack
Everything you need to know before buying real estate is included in our Costa Rica Property Pack
House prices in Costa Rica vary dramatically based on location, with beachfront properties commanding premium prices while rural areas remain affordable.
As of September 2025, the average price per square meter ranges from $1,021 to $1,929 nationally, with coastal regions like Guanacaste reaching $2,896 per square meter for condos and Central Valley homes averaging $1,180 to $1,299 per square meter.
If you want to go deeper, you can check our pack of documents related to the real estate market in Costa Rica, based on reliable facts and data, not opinions or rumors.
Costa Rica property prices range from $100-$400 per square meter in rural areas to $5,000 per square meter for prime beachfront locations.
Total ownership costs including taxes, insurance, and maintenance typically add 1-3% annually to your property value.
| Property Type | Average Price Range | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 2-bedroom coastal house | $200,000 - $550,000 | Popular beach areas |
| 3-bedroom Central Valley house | $180,000 - $400,000 | Urban suburbs |
| Beachfront land per m² | $2,500 - $5,000 | Prime coastal locations |
| Rural land per m² | $100 - $400 | Countryside areas |
| Construction cost per m² | $947 - $3,000 | Standard to luxury quality |
| Closing costs | 3.5% - 6% | Of purchase price |
| Annual property tax | 0.25% - 0.55% | Of declared value |
What's the average price per square meter for a house in Costa Rica right now?
The average price per square meter for houses in Costa Rica ranges from $1,021 to $1,929 nationally as of September 2025.
Central Valley urban areas like Escazú and Santa Ana command $1,180 to $1,299 per square meter for houses, while condominiums reach up to $2,025 per square meter in these prime locations. The price difference reflects the higher demand and better infrastructure in these established neighborhoods near San José.
Coastal regions show the highest variation, with Guanacaste province averaging $2,221 per square meter for houses and $2,896 per square meter for condominiums. Beachfront properties in this region can reach $2,725 to $3,298 per square meter, reflecting the premium for ocean access and tourism potential.
Rural areas offer the most affordable options, with prices as low as $175 to $400 per square meter in remote Central Valley towns and southern regions. These areas provide opportunities for budget-conscious buyers willing to trade convenience for lower costs.
It's something we develop in our Costa Rica property pack.
How much does an average 2-bedroom house cost in popular coastal areas?
A typical 2-bedroom house in popular coastal areas costs between $200,000 and $550,000 depending on proximity to the beach and local amenities.
In established beach towns like Jaco and Playas del Coco, entry-level 2-bedroom houses start around $200,000 to $300,000 for properties located a few blocks from the beach. These homes typically feature basic finishes and may require some updating but offer good value for buyers seeking coastal living without premium prices.
Premium coastal markets like Tamarindo and Nosara command significantly higher prices, with 2-bedroom houses ranging from $400,000 to $550,000 for well-appointed properties. These areas offer better infrastructure, established expat communities, and higher rental income potential for investment buyers.
Beachfront 2-bedroom houses can exceed $600,000 to $800,000 in the most desirable locations, reflecting the scarcity of direct ocean access properties and their strong appreciation potential.
How much does an average 3-bedroom house cost in the Central Valley region?
Three-bedroom houses in the Central Valley region typically cost between $180,000 and $400,000, with significant variation based on specific location and property quality.
In smaller Central Valley towns and suburban areas outside the greater San José metropolitan area, well-maintained 3-bedroom houses can be found for $180,000 to $250,000. These properties offer good value for families seeking more space and often include larger lots with garden areas.
Popular expatriate suburbs like Escazú, Santa Ana, and Heredia command premium prices, with 3-bedroom houses ranging from $300,000 to $400,000 or more. These areas provide superior infrastructure, international schools, shopping centers, and proximity to San José's business district.
Luxury developments and gated communities in the Central Valley can push 3-bedroom house prices above $500,000, particularly for properties with mountain views, large lots, or high-end finishes. These represent the top tier of the Central Valley market and cater to affluent local and international buyers.
What's the price difference between urban areas like San José and rural towns?
Urban areas like San José cost 2 to 4 times more per square meter than rural towns, creating significant opportunities for budget-conscious buyers.
San José metropolitan area houses average $1,110 to $1,180 per square meter, while apartments range from $1,724 to $2,343 per square meter. These prices reflect the capital's economic importance, job opportunities, and established infrastructure that supports higher property values.
Rural Central Valley towns and remote regions offer properties for as low as $175 to $400 per square meter, representing substantial savings for buyers willing to accept longer commutes and fewer amenities. These areas often provide larger lots and more peaceful environments but may lack reliable internet, healthcare facilities, and shopping options.
The price differential means a $400,000 budget could buy a modest urban home or a substantial rural property with extensive land. This gap continues to widen as urban areas experience faster appreciation driven by limited developable land and growing demand from both local and international buyers.
Don't lose money on your property in Costa Rica
100% of people who have lost money there have spent less than 1 hour researching the market. We have reviewed everything there is to know. Grab our guide now.
How much more do beachfront properties cost compared to homes a few kilometers inland?
Beachfront properties cost 2 to 6 times more than comparable homes located just a few kilometers inland, representing one of the largest price premiums in Costa Rica's real estate market.
Direct beachfront properties command $2,500 to $5,000 per square meter in prime locations, while similar homes located 2-3 kilometers inland typically cost $800 to $1,500 per square meter. This premium reflects the scarcity of beachfront land, strict coastal zoning regulations, and high demand from both investors and lifestyle buyers.
The price differential varies by specific beach and development level, with established tourist areas like Tamarindo and Manuel Antonio showing the highest premiums. Lesser-known beaches may have smaller price gaps, but direct ocean access consistently commands significant premiums across all coastal regions.
Investment potential also drives beachfront premiums, as these properties typically generate higher rental yields and experience stronger appreciation over time. However, buyers should consider additional costs including higher insurance premiums, increased maintenance due to salt air exposure, and potential environmental restrictions on modifications.
What's the average cost of land per square meter in desirable locations?
| Location Type | Price per Square Meter | Specific Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Prime beachfront | $2,500 - $5,000 | Tamarindo, Nosara, Manuel Antonio |
| Central Valley urban | $1,000 - $2,000 | Escazú, Santa Ana, Heredia |
| Secondary coastal areas | $500 - $1,500 | Dominical, Samara, Uvita |
| Mountain/volcano views | $300 - $800 | Atenas, Grecia, San Ramón |
| Rural agricultural land | $100 - $400 | Southern Zone, remote areas |
| Near airports/infrastructure | $800 - $1,500 | Liberia, Alajuela areas |
| Jungle/remote coastal | $200 - $600 | Caribbean coast, Osa Peninsula |
How much are the typical closing costs and legal fees in percentage and in USD?
Typical closing costs and legal fees range from 3.5% to 6% of the purchase price, usually paid entirely by the buyer.
For a $200,000 property, expect to pay between $7,000 and $12,000 in total closing costs. This includes notary and legal fees (1% to 2% of purchase price), transfer taxes (1.5%), stamps and registration fees (0.5%), plus escrow services and miscellaneous administrative costs.
Legal representation is mandatory in Costa Rica, and attorney fees typically range from $1,500 to $4,000 depending on property complexity and attorney experience. These fees cover title research, contract review, closing coordination, and post-purchase registration with the National Registry.
Additional costs may include surveying fees ($500-$1,500), environmental studies for rural properties ($800-$2,000), and corporation setup if purchasing through a Costa Rican entity ($1,000-$2,500). Buyers should budget conservatively as unexpected issues can increase total closing costs.
It's something we develop in our Costa Rica property pack.
What's the annual property tax rate and how much would that be for a $200,000 home?
The standard annual property tax rate is 0.25% of the declared property value, making Costa Rica one of the most tax-friendly countries for property owners.
For a $200,000 home, the annual property tax would be $500, payable in quarterly installments of $125 each. This relatively low tax burden makes Costa Rica attractive for both residents and non-resident property owners compared to many other countries.
Luxury properties valued above approximately $281,555 face additional luxury tax rates ranging from 0.25% to 0.55% depending on the total declared value. Properties valued between $281,555 and $563,110 pay an additional 0.25%, while those above $563,110 pay 0.55% on the excess amount.
Property valuations are based on the National Registry's declared value, which often differs from market value. Some properties may be registered below current market value, resulting in lower tax assessments, though this practice carries legal risks and complications for future sales.
We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Costa Rica versus those in neighboring countries. It provides a clear view of how this country positions itself as a real estate investment destination, which might interest you if you're planning to invest there.
How much should I expect to pay monthly for home insurance on a $250,000 property?
Monthly home insurance for a $250,000 property typically costs $40 to $52, representing an annual premium of $500 to $625.
Standard homeowner's insurance in Costa Rica costs approximately 0.20% to 0.25% of the property's declared value annually. This coverage typically includes protection against fire, theft, natural disasters, and liability, providing comprehensive protection for property owners.
Coastal properties may face higher premiums due to increased risks from humidity, salt air corrosion, and potential hurricane damage. Properties in earthquake-prone areas or flood zones may also require additional coverage, potentially increasing annual premiums to $700-$900 for a $250,000 home.
International insurance companies often provide better coverage options and claims processing for foreign property owners, though premiums may be 10-20% higher than local providers. Many buyers opt for international coverage to ensure English-language support and familiar claims procedures.
What's the average monthly cost for utilities like electricity, water, and internet in a typical home?
The average monthly cost for basic utilities ranges from $95 to $230, with electricity being the largest expense in most households.
Electricity costs typically range from $40 to $100 monthly depending on home size, air conditioning usage, and energy efficiency. Costa Rica's electricity comes primarily from renewable sources, but rates are relatively high compared to North American standards, particularly for heavy consumption households.
Water bills average $10 to $30 monthly for typical residential use, making it one of the most affordable utilities in Costa Rica. The country maintains excellent water quality standards, and most areas have reliable municipal water service.
Internet service costs $30 to $60 monthly for high-speed residential plans, with fiber optic availability expanding rapidly throughout the country. Rural areas may have limited options and higher costs, while urban and coastal tourist areas generally offer competitive pricing and reliable service.
How much should I budget for annual maintenance on a medium-sized house?
Annual maintenance costs for a medium-sized house typically range from $1,000 to $2,000, though coastal and older properties may require significantly more.
Condominium owners face lower maintenance responsibilities, with annual costs typically ranging from $500 to $800 since exterior maintenance, landscaping, and common area upkeep are handled by the homeowners association. Monthly HOA fees usually cover these services plus security and amenities.
Single-family homes require budgeting for painting (every 2-3 years due to humidity), landscaping, pest control, minor repairs, and seasonal maintenance. Coastal properties need additional attention due to salt air corrosion, requiring more frequent painting and metal fixture replacement.
Major systems like roofing, plumbing, and electrical may require significant repairs or replacement every 10-15 years, so wise owners establish maintenance reserves. Pool maintenance adds $100-$200 monthly, while properties with extensive gardens or mature trees may need professional landscaping services costing $200-$500 monthly.
It's something we develop in our Costa Rica property pack.
What's the average cost to build a house per square meter if I buy land instead of purchasing an existing home?
Construction costs range from $947 to $1,300 per square meter for standard quality homes, with luxury builds reaching $2,700 to $3,000 per square meter.
Basic construction with local materials and finishes starts around $947 per square meter, suitable for simple homes with concrete block construction, basic electrical and plumbing, and standard finishes. This level provides functional housing but may lack aesthetic details and premium materials.
Mid-range construction costs $1,300 to $1,800 per square meter and includes better finishes, improved insulation, quality fixtures, and architectural details. This level appeals to most foreign buyers seeking comfortable homes with good resale value.
Luxury construction can reach $2,700 to $3,000 per square meter or more, incorporating imported materials, custom features, high-end appliances, and complex architectural designs. Beachfront projects face additional logistics costs due to remote locations and challenging access for materials and workers.
Additional costs include architectural plans ($5,000-$15,000), permits and inspections ($2,000-$5,000), site preparation and utilities connections ($10,000-$25,000), and contingency reserves of 10-20% for unexpected issues or change orders during construction.
Conclusion
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. We do not assume any liability for actions taken based on the information provided.
Costa Rica's property market offers diverse opportunities from affordable rural homes to premium beachfront estates, with prices varying dramatically by location and proximity to amenities.
While coastal properties command premium prices, the country's low property taxes, reasonable insurance costs, and affordable utilities make it an attractive destination for both lifestyle and investment buyers.
Sources
- The LatinVestor - Costa Rica Price Forecasts
- Aparthotel - Costa Rica Market Analysis
- Costa Rica Law - Real Estate Market Prices 2025
- The LatinVestor - Housing Market Costa Rica
- CB Sunset Realty - Property Buying Guide 2025
- CB Sunset Realty - Beachfront vs Inland Price Comparison
- Playa Lagarto Real Estate - Market Outlook 2025-2028
- Living Costa Rica - Closing Costs Guide
- Palm Real Estate - Property Ownership Costs
- Coldwell Banker Samara - Building Costs Costa Rica