Cost of living in Jacó, Costa Rica

Typical monthly budget

A single person living comfortably often spends around $1,800–$2,800 a month; a couple $2,500–$4,000; a family with private school more. Owning your home instead of renting changes the picture a lot.

Estimated costs

• Rent: 1–2 bedroom condo roughly $900–$2,000 long term
• Electricity: $60–$200+ depending on air conditioning use
• Internet: about $40–$80 for fiber
• Groceries: $400–$800 per person; imported brands cost more
• Healthcare: public CAJA for residents, or private insurance from about $100–$300+ a month per person
• Car: fuel, insurance and the yearly marchamo registration fee

Ways to save

Shop at the farmers' market (feria), eat at local sodas, use fans more than air conditioning, and buy a condo with low HOA fees. Owning and renting out part-time can offset living costs.