Can You Live on $2000 a Month in Costa Rica?

Yes — you can live comfortably on $2,000 per month in many parts of Costa Rica. The country remains one of the best value-for-money destinations for retirees and digital nomads.

1. Cost Breakdown

Here’s what $2,000/month can cover:

Housing

• Apartment in smaller cities: $500–$900

• Modern condo in popular expat towns: $900–$1,300

• Utilities: $80–$150

Food

• Groceries: $300–$450

• Eating out (local meals): $5–$10

• Western restaurants: $12–$20 per meal

Healthcare

• Public insurance: $50–$150

• Private insurance: $100–$250

• Medical visits are inexpensive

Transportation

• Public transit: cheap

• Fuel prices moderate

• Many expats rely on inexpensive buses

Miscellaneous

• Gym: $40–$60

• Mobile plan: $10–$20

• Entertainment: $100–$200

2. Best Areas for $2,000 Budget

• Grecia

• Atenas

• Heredia

• Cartago

• San Isidro

• Small Pacific towns (outside main tourist hubs)

Coastal hotspots like Tamarindo or Nosara cost more.

3. Lifestyle Quality

On $2,000 monthly, you can enjoy:

• Fresh food

• Clean environment

• Safe neighborhoods

• Access to healthcare

• Outdoor lifestyle

Bottom Line

Yes — $2,000/month is enough to live very comfortably in most of Costa Rica.

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