What are the price trends and forecasts in Costa Rica right now? (2026)

Costa Rica's property market in 2026 continues attracting both local buyers and international investors seeking lifestyle opportunities in Central America.

In this article, we break down current housing prices in Costa Rica, recent price movements, and what experts expect ahead.

We constantly update this blog post with fresh data as the market evolves.

And if you're planning to buy a property in this place, you may want to download our pack covering the real estate market in Costa Rica.

Who is the author of this content?

THE LATINVESTOR

A team specialized in real estate investing in LATAM countries

We are a team of financial experts, legal professionals, developers, and local real estate specialists dedicated to helping people like you avoid mistakes when investing in real estate in a foreign place, particularly in Costa Rica. If you’d like to learn more about us, you can check our presentation page.

What are the current property price trends in Costa Rica as of 2026?

What is the average house price in Costa Rica as of 2026?

As of early 2026, the average house price in Costa Rica for a typical two-to-three bedroom detached home with mid-quality finishes sits around $230,000 (approximately 115 million colones or 215,000 euros).

Looking at price per square meter, houses in Costa Rica average around $1,500 per square meter, while condos tend to be pricier at about $2,600 per square meter due to their locations in high-demand urban and coastal areas.

Roughly 80% of property purchases in Costa Rica fall within $120,000 to $450,000 (60 to 225 million colones, or 110,000 to 420,000 euros), covering everything from modest homes in secondary cities to well-located condos in the Central Valley or popular beach towns.

How much have property prices increased in Costa Rica over the past 12 months?

Property prices in Costa Rica increased approximately 7% nationwide in USD terms between January 2025 and January 2026, with the Central Valley seeing gains of 6% to 10% while prime coastal areas recorded 5% to 9% growth.

Price movement varied significantly by property type and location, with gated community homes and condos in Escazu and Santa Ana at the higher end, and some coastal luxury segments showing more uneven growth patterns.

The most significant factor behind this price growth was sustained tourism demand combined with steady economic confidence, as Costa Rica's central bank maintained positive growth forecasts and visitor numbers stayed strong throughout 2025.

Which neighborhoods have the fastest rising property prices in Costa Rica as of 2026?

As of early 2026, neighborhoods with the fastest rising property prices in Costa Rica include Escazu and Santa Ana in the Central Valley, along with Nosara on the Guanacaste coast, all combining safety, amenities, and strong buyer demand.

Annual price growth in these top neighborhoods ranges from 8% to 12%, with Escazu seeing premium condo prices climb toward the higher end and Nosara benefiting from persistent international lifestyle buyer interest.

The main demand driver is the combination of accessibility, security, and quality of life, with Escazu and Santa Ana attracting San Jose professionals while Nosara draws wellness-focused expats and remote workers.

By the way, you will find much more detailed price ranges across neighborhoods in our property pack covering the real estate market in Costa Rica.

We have made this infographic to give you a quick and clear snapshot of the property market in Costa Rica. It highlights key facts like rental prices, yields, and property costs both in city centers and outside, so you can easily compare opportunities. We’ve done some research and also included useful insights about the country’s economy, like GDP, population, and interest rates, to help you understand the bigger picture.

Which property types are increasing faster in value in Costa Rica as of 2026?

As of early 2026, condos and apartments in the Central Valley are appreciating fastest, followed by gated-community townhouses around Santa Ana and Escazu, then coastal villas, with older large houses in less accessible areas showing the slowest growth.

The top-performing property type, mid-market condos in prime Greater San Jose districts, is seeing annual appreciation of 8% to 10%, outpacing other residential categories.

Condos are outperforming because they match modern buyer preferences for security, shared amenities, low maintenance, and proximity to jobs, attracting both young professionals and retirees seeking lock-and-leave convenience.

Finally, if you're interested in a specific property type, you will find our latest analyses here:

• How much do properties cost in Costa Rica?
• How much should you pay for a house in Costa Rica?
• How much should you pay for lands in Costa Rica?

What is driving property prices up or down in Costa Rica as of 2026?

As of early 2026, the top three factors driving Costa Rica property prices are sustained economic growth and buyer confidence, strong tourism demand boosting coastal markets, and infrastructure improvements reshaping commute patterns in the Greater San Jose Area.

The factor with the strongest upward pressure is tourism-linked demand in coastal areas, as record visitor arrivals translate directly into higher absorption for vacation homes and lifestyle residences in Tamarindo, Nosara, and Manuel Antonio.

If you want to understand these factors at a deeper level, you can read our latest property market analysis about Costa Rica here.

What is the property price forecast for Costa Rica in 2026?

How much are property prices expected to increase in Costa Rica in 2026?

As of early 2026, property prices in Costa Rica are expected to increase by 4% to 7% over the year, with the Central Valley tracking toward 4% to 7% growth and prime coastal hubs potentially reaching 5% to 8%.

Analyst forecasts for Costa Rica property growth in 2026 range from a conservative 3% to an optimistic 9%, depending on assumptions about tourism strength, interest rates, and global economic conditions.

The main assumption underlying most forecasts is that Costa Rica's economy will continue its steady growth trajectory, with inflation controlled and tourism arrivals robust throughout the year.

We go deeper and try to understand how solid are these forecasts in our pack covering the property market in Costa Rica.

Which neighborhoods will see the highest price growth in Costa Rica in 2026?

As of early 2026, neighborhoods expected to see highest price growth include Escazu and Santa Ana in the Central Valley, Tamarindo and Nosara on the Guanacaste coast, and Curridabat near San Jose.

Projected price growth for these top neighborhoods ranges from 7% to 12%, with lifestyle-focused coastal areas potentially at the higher end when international demand is strong.

The primary catalyst is the combination of established infrastructure, strong security, excellent amenities, and deep buyer pools that create consistent demand even when broader markets slow.

One emerging neighborhood that could surprise is the Limon corridor near Puerto Viejo, where Route 32 improvements are making Caribbean-side living more accessible to Central Valley commuters and adventurous expats.

By the way, we've written a blog article detailing what are the current best areas to invest in property in Costa Rica.

What property types will appreciate the most in Costa Rica in 2026?

As of early 2026, mid-market condos and apartments in prime Greater San Jose districts are expected to appreciate most, followed by gated-community townhouses and well-located coastal homes with rental potential.

Projected appreciation for top-performing condos in Escazu, Santa Ana, and Curridabat is approximately 7% to 10% for 2026, driven by demand from professionals and downsizing retirees.

The main trend driving condo appreciation is growing preference for secure, low-maintenance living with shared amenities, especially among younger buyers and older owners simplifying their lifestyles.

The property type expected to underperform is large older houses far from job centers, as these require significant maintenance, appeal to narrower buyer pools, and face longer selling times.

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 will interest rates affect property prices in Costa Rica in 2026?

As of early 2026, Costa Rica's moderate interest rate environment supports steady property demand, with the central bank's benchmark TBP rate around 3.5% and mortgage conditions favorable for qualified buyers.

The benchmark rate is expected to remain stable through 2026, with most analysts anticipating mortgage rates to hold steady or edge down if inflation stays controlled.

In Costa Rica, a 1% rate increase typically reduces purchasing power by 10% to 12%, meaning buyers afford less house for the same payment, which cools demand first in condo and mid-market segments where buyers rely most on financing.

You can also read our latest update about mortgage and interest rates in Costa Rica.

What are the biggest risks for property prices in Costa Rica in 2026?

As of early 2026, the three biggest risks for Costa Rica property prices are a tourism slowdown softening coastal markets, currency fluctuations changing affordability for foreign buyers, and localized oversupply of condo units in certain micro-markets.

The risk with highest probability is a tourism pause, as coastal property values are closely tied to visitor numbers, and any travel disruption would quickly translate into softer rental demand and slower sales in beach communities.

We actually cover all these risks and their likelihoods in our pack about the real estate market in Costa Rica.

Is it a good time to buy a rental property in Costa Rica in 2026?

As of early 2026, it is generally a good time to buy a rental property in Costa Rica if you choose the right micro-market and underwrite conservatively, with strongest opportunities near job centers or in coastal towns with year-round tourism demand.

The strongest argument for buying now is that Costa Rica's economic fundamentals remain solid, tourism is healthy, and interest rates are stable, supporting both appreciation and rental demand in well-located areas.

The strongest argument for waiting is that some popular markets may price in optimistic rental assumptions, and buyers underwriting based on peak-season rates could face disappointing cash flow.

If you want to know our latest analysis (results may differ from what you just read), you can read our assessment on whether now is a good time to buy a property in Costa Rica.

You'll also find a dedicated document about this specific question in our pack about real estate in Costa Rica.

Where will property prices be in 5 years in Costa Rica?

What is the 5-year property price forecast for Costa Rica as of 2026?

As of early 2026, property prices in Costa Rica are expected to grow 25% to 35% cumulatively over the next five years, assuming steady economic growth and robust tourism.

The range spans from a conservative 10% to 20% if tourism weakens and affordability pressures bite, up to an optimistic 40% to 55% if all demand drivers stay supportive.

This translates to roughly 4% to 6% annual appreciation, consistent with Costa Rica's historical performance in stable periods.

The key assumption is that Costa Rica will maintain macroeconomic stability, continue attracting foreign investment and tourism, and complete planned infrastructure projects on schedule.

Which areas in Costa Rica will have the best price growth over the next 5 years?

The top three areas expected to have the best price growth over five years are the premium Central Valley corridor (Escazu, Santa Ana, Curridabat, Belen), the Guanacaste airport-driven coast (Tamarindo, Playa Flamingo, Playas del Coco), and selectively the Caribbean-side Limon corridor near Puerto Viejo.

Projected 5-year cumulative growth for these areas ranges from 30% to 50%, with infrastructure-boosted locations potentially at the higher end as accessibility improvements materialize.

This differs from the shorter 2026 forecast because infrastructure projects like Route 32 and Circunvalacion Norte take time to fully reprice housing, showing up more clearly over five years.

The currently undervalued area with best outperformance potential is the broader Limon corridor, where road improvements are reducing "friction cost" and opening previously isolated communities to new buyers.

What property type will give the best return in Costa Rica over 5 years as of 2026?

As of early 2026, mid-market condos in prime Greater San Jose districts are expected to deliver the best risk-adjusted total return over five years, combining solid appreciation with reliable rental income.

Projected 5-year total return for well-located Central Valley condos is approximately 40% to 60%, combining price appreciation of 25% to 40% with cumulative net rental income.

The main structural trend favoring condos is Costa Rica's aging population and changing household preferences, with more buyers seeking secure, low-maintenance living rather than large houses requiring significant upkeep.

For investors seeking balanced returns with lower risk, townhouses in established gated communities around Santa Ana, Escazu, and Belen offer a middle ground with steady appreciation and broad buyer appeal.

How will new infrastructure projects affect property prices in Costa Rica over 5 years?

The top three infrastructure projects expected to impact Costa Rica property prices over five years are Circunvalacion Norte around San Jose, Route 32 improvements to the Caribbean coast, and airport expansions at Juan Santamaria (SJO) and Daniel Oduber (LIR) in Guanacaste.

Properties near completed infrastructure projects typically see 10% to 20% price premiums over comparable properties in less accessible areas, with effects building gradually over two to four years.

Neighborhoods benefiting most include areas along the northern San Jose ring road, communities in the Limon corridor served by Route 32, and beach towns near Liberia airport gaining from expanded flight capacity.

How will population growth and other factors impact property values in Costa Rica in 5 years?

Costa Rica's population is projected to grow slowly at under 1% per year, but the more significant impact will come from an aging demographic shifting demand toward smaller, manageable properties with good healthcare access and security.

The strongest demographic influence is older households seeking to downsize combined with younger professionals delaying homeownership, together boosting demand for condos and rental-friendly properties while softening demand for large family homes.

Migration patterns, particularly North American retirees and remote workers plus South American professionals, will support values in lifestyle markets on both coasts and premium Central Valley neighborhoods.

Property types and areas benefiting most are condos and gated townhouses in the Central Valley and established coastal towns like Nosara, Tamarindo, and Manuel Antonio offering security, healthcare access, and lock-and-leave convenience.

We made this infographic to show you how property prices in Costa Rica compare to other big cities across the region. It breaks down the average price per square meter in city centers, so you can see how cities stack up. It’s an easy way to spot where you might get the best value for your money. We hope you like it.

What is the 10 year property price outlook in Costa Rica?

What is the 10-year property price prediction for Costa Rica as of 2026?

As of early 2026, property prices in Costa Rica are expected to grow 55% to 85% cumulatively over ten years, assuming continued stability, tourism attraction, and infrastructure completion.

The range spans from a conservative 35% to 50% if external shocks occur, up to an optimistic 100% or more if Costa Rica captures outsized remote worker and retiree migration.

This translates to roughly 4.5% to 6.5% annual appreciation, consistent with mature emerging market performance and Costa Rica's stable fundamentals.

The biggest uncertainty is the trajectory of global tourism and remote work patterns, as Costa Rica's attractiveness depends on remaining a safe, accessible, nature-rich destination with good infrastructure.

What long-term economic factors will shape property prices in Costa Rica?

The top three long-term factors shaping Costa Rica property prices are macroeconomic stability and external buffers, FDI strength and job creation in the Central Valley, and tourism competitiveness supported by improving air connectivity.

The factor with most positive impact will be sustained FDI in technology, medical devices, and services, creating high-income jobs that drive housing demand in the Greater San Jose Area.

The greatest structural risk is potential erosion of tourism competitiveness from climate challenges, rising costs versus alternatives, or infrastructure failing to keep pace with visitor growth.

You'll also find a much more detailed analysis in our pack about real estate in Costa Rica.

Is buying a property in Costa Rica a good long-term investment then?

As of early 2026, buying a property in Costa Rica is generally a good long-term investment if you focus on areas with durable demand and approach with realistic assumptions about costs, currencies, and rental income.

In the Central Valley, strongest plays are neighborhoods combining safety, amenities, and commute access, with Escazu, Santa Ana, Curridabat, Belen, and Rohrmoser standing out as established markets.

On the coasts, best investments are places with year-round demand, including Nosara, Tamarindo, Playa Flamingo, Playas del Coco, Jaco, Manuel Antonio, and Puerto Viejo offering accessibility, lifestyle appeal, and rental potential.

To succeed, underwrite conservatively with realistic rent assumptions, budget honestly for maintenance and HOA costs, and stay clear-eyed about currency exposure if earning dollars but paying costs partly in colones.

What sources have we used to write this blog article?

Whether it's in our blog articles or the market analyses included in our property pack about Costa Rica, we always rely on the strongest methodology we can … and we don't throw out numbers at random.

We also aim to be fully transparent, so below we've listed the authoritative sources we used.

Source	Why it's authoritative	How we used it
Banco Central de Costa Rica (BCCR) - Economic Indicators	Costa Rica's central bank, publishing official macro and financial data.	We used it to anchor the macroeconomic backdrop. We kept assumptions consistent with their figures.
BCCR - Monetary Policy Reports	The central bank's official forecast product.	We used it for baseline growth and inflation expectations. We built price forecasts on these projections.
BCCR - Monetary Policy Report (April 2025)	Official publication with explicit projections.	We used it to ground near-term economic momentum. We translated that into housing demand analysis.
BCCR - Home Page Indicators	Official reference for exchange and benchmark rates.	We used it to convert colon metrics into USD. We referenced it for interest rate context.
BCCR - USD/CRC Exchange Rate Series	Official historical series for the FX rate.	We used it to verify exchange rates are in expected range. We avoided false precision in conversions.
BCCR - IMIUR Housing Starts Indicator	Official indicator tracking housing supply.	We used it to understand supply dynamics. We judged whether price moves are likely to persist.
INEC Costa Rica - Construction Price Indices	Official national statistics agency.	We used it as a cost-side signal for replacement cost pressures. We treated it as a complement to market pricing.
Instituto Costarricense de Turismo (ICT) - Statistics Hub	Official tourism authority with verified arrival data.	We used it as a demand driver for coastal markets. We linked arrivals to absorption in beach towns.
ICT - Migration Movement Reports	ICT's underlying arrival data source.	We used it to validate tourism-demand arguments. We cross-checked tourism-driven demand commentary.
IMF - Flexible Credit Line Approval	IMF's primary-source creditworthiness announcement.	We used it as a macro stability signal. We supported our base case that markets aren't pricing distress.
World Bank - Costa Rica Macro Snapshot	Primary-source World Bank country outlook.	We used it to cross-check FDI trends. We validated demand-side assumptions about jobs and income.
UNFPA - Costa Rica Population Dashboard	UN agency data with transparent methodology.	We used it to anchor population and age trends. We applied it to long-run demand projections.
Encuentra24 - Price Trend Statistics	Large regional marketplace with listing-based methodology.	We used it as a market price thermometer. We cross-checked neighborhood examples against trends.
Properstar - Costa Rica Price Report	Transparent listing-based methodology, frequently updated.	We used it for independent benchmarks. We triangulated expensive versus affordable areas.
Global Property Guide - Costa Rica	Long-running research site with consistent formatting.	We used it to compare provinces and property types. We treated it as a cross-check.
MOPT - Circunvalacion Norte Update	Transport ministry's official project communication.	We used it for infrastructure-driven analysis. We applied it to 5-year projections.
MOPT - Route 32 Completion Announcement	Official statement on strategic corridor.	We used it for Caribbean accessibility improvements. We factored it into growth area selections.
MOPT - Daniel Oduber Airport Expansion	Official ministry procurement announcement.	We used it to support Guanacaste premium thesis. We applied it as 5-year beach market support.
AERIS/SJO Airport - Expansion Plan	Official operator communication for main airport.	We used it for Central Valley infrastructure support. We reinforced that growth isn't just a beach story.
CABEI - Circunvalacion Norte Note	Primary-source financier's announcement.	We used it to cross-check project timing. We treated it as a second official voice.