Costa Rica property taxes and the maritime zone
Costa Rica's property taxes are low compared with North America, but beachfront buyers need to understand the maritime zone. Here's the plain-English version.
Annual property tax
Property tax is 0.25% of the property's registered value per year, paid to the local municipality (Garabito for Jacó). Owners should file an updated value declaration every few years.
Luxury home tax
Homes whose construction value exceeds a threshold set each year pay an additional luxury home tax (impuesto solidario) on a sliding scale. Land value isn't counted, and most condos and modest homes fall below the threshold.
Other ongoing costs
- Municipal service fees (garbage, street maintenance)
- Annual corporate tax if you own through a company
- HOA fees in condos and gated communities
- 13% VAT and income tax on rental income
The maritime zone (Zona Marítimo Terrestre)
Under Law 6043, the first 50 meters from the high tide line is public. The next 150 meters is a restricted zone the municipality grants as a concession, usually for a set number of years and renewable, with an annual fee (canon).
Concessions come with zoning rules and limits on foreign control. Beachfront titled land does exist in some places (for example in older towns or where the zone was titled before the law), so always have your attorney confirm legal status.
Figures are general estimates from public sources as of 2026 and change over time. This is not legal or tax advice — always confirm with a Costa Rican attorney/notary and accountant before you buy.