Real costs, visas, housing and healthcare. Everything you need to move or retire to Costa Rica in 2026.
Emergency Numbers in Costa Rica
Traffic Police (COSEVI)
800-8726-7000
Tourist Police
+506 2222-1365
Red Cross (Cruz Roja) — San José
+506 2221-5818
Private Ambulance (Emergencias Médicas)
+506 2290-4444
Coast Guard (Guardacostas)
+506 2255-4242
OIJ (Criminal Investigation)
800-8000-645
National Poison Control
+506 2223-1028
Traffic Accidents — INS
800-800-8000
Drug Control Police
800-376-4266
Airports & Official Taxis
SJO — Juan Santamaría
+506 2437-2626
↳ Official taxi SJO
+506 2221-6865
LIR — Daniel Oduber, Liberia
+506 2668-1010
↳ Official taxi LIR
+506 2668-3009
PMZ — Tobías Bolaños, Pavas
+506 2232-2820
Recommended ride apps
InDriver / Uber
Embassies in San José
🇺🇸 United States
+506 2519-2000
🇨🇦 Canada
+506 2242-4400
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
+506 2258-2025
🇦🇺 Australia
+506 4033-7300
🇩🇪 Germany
+506 2232-5441
QUICK ANSWERS
What number do I call in an emergency in Costa Rica?
Dial 911 for police, fire or ambulance, available 24/7 nationwide. Short codes: 117 (Police), 118 (Fire), 128 (Red Cross). Bilingual operators available.
Is Costa Rica safe for tourists and expats?
Yes. Costa Rica is the most stable country in Central America. No military since 1948, strong democracy, and a well-funded Tourist Police. Use common sense: avoid displaying valuables, use official taxis, and be cautious at beaches.
How much does it cost to live in Costa Rica?
A single person lives comfortably from $1,300/month; a couple from $2,100/month. That includes housing, food, healthcare and internet, far below US or Canadian costs.
2026 REAL NUMBERS
Real monthly budget estimates for expats: singles, couples and families. 2026 data.
Costa Rica is the most expensive country in Central America, yet still significantly more affordable than the United States, Canada or Europe. A single person lives comfortably from $1,300/month; a couple from $2,100/month. That includes housing, food, utilities, internet, healthcare, education and entertainment — far below what you would pay in Miami, Toronto or Barcelona.
QUICK REFERENCE — MONTHLY COSTS
Prices vary by zone: the Greater Metropolitan Area (GAM) is pricier, while the Central Valley towns of Grecia, Atenas and San Ramón offer 30–40% savings. Beach zones like Tamarindo or Puerto Viejo have risen due to tourism demand, but still remain below US coastal prices.
Single Person
1-bedroom, GAM
Couple (No Children)
2-bedroom, GAM
Family of 5, Public School
2 adults + 3 kids
Family of 5, Bilingual School
2 adults + 3 kids
$1.60
Per liter gasoline (super)
$0.70
City bus fare
-2.09%
Max rent increase 2026
$25–$55
Fiber internet / month
Includes housing, food, utilities, internet, healthcare, education and entertainment. Real 2026 prices.
Read full guide with all costs →
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