The Benefits of Investing in Costa Rica Real Estate

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The Benefits of Investing in Costa Rica Real Estate

Costa Rica is quickly becoming one of the world’s premier travel destinations, celebrated for its stunning natural landscapes and commitment to eco-tourism. At the same time, its stable economy and expanding real estate market are drawing the interest of investors worldwide.

A growing number of buyers are opting to invest in Costa Rican real estate—and for good reason. This small Central American nation boasts the longest-standing democracy in Latin America and serves as a model of development. Its economy has shown consistent growth for over 25 years, with a notable 60% increase in GDP per capita in the last two decades.

Costa Rica continually adapts to serve its 5.15 million residents and the rising influx of international visitors. In recent years, the country has made significant upgrades to its infrastructure, including the expansion of international airports and the construction of new highways. Additionally, it has seen a rise in luxury hotels and resorts, as well as increased options for adventure and eco-tourism.

A “Natural Destination”

 

Renowned for its exquisite tropical climate and breathtaking natural beauty, Costa Rica offers something for every traveler—from pristine beaches and hidden waterfalls to lush rainforests and majestic mountains.

This eco-friendly haven prioritizes sustainability, relying almost entirely on renewable energy sources and committing to preserving 30% of its forests and marine resources.

With over 25 National Parks and more than 20 protected areas, Costa Rica is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Whether you want to explore the cloud forests of Monteverde or relax in one of Arenal Volcano’s many hot springs, Costa Rica is an unbeatable destination.

Flourishing Tourism

 

Latin America is witnessing a surge in tourism, driven by the rising appeal of nature experiences, wellness retreats, and eco-tourism. Costa Rica is a top choice, thanks to its tropical climate and unique wildlife. In 2022, nearly 2.5 million tourists visited Costa Rica, an increase of 1 million from the previous year.

The primary market for Costa Rica is the United States, with over 1.25 million American tourists visiting in 2022. Additionally, more than 410,000 European tourists arrived, led by visitors from the UK, Germany, France, Spain, and the Netherlands.

Recently, Forbes recognized Costa Rica as one of the Top 10 Latin American Destinations for 2023, and tourism numbers are expected to keep rising. The Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT) predicts the country will attract 3.8 million tourists by 2027, generating approximately $4.9 billion USD.

Accessibility

 

Costa Rica’s location in Central America makes it easily reachable from various destinations, including other Latin American countries, the U.S., and Europe.

A significant majority (90%) of international visitors arrive in Costa Rica by air. In 2022, Juan Santamaría International Airport in San Jose welcomed 1,455,928 tourists, while Guanacaste Airport received over 660,000 visitors.

Real Estate Market Overview

 

Costa Rica’s real estate sector has experienced rapid growth in recent years. In 2022, the country recorded an impressive $156 million in real estate transactions, up from $104 million in 2021 and approximately $90 million in 2019.

Home prices have risen by around 15% annually, yet real estate remains very affordable compared to the U.S. and neighboring countries.

On average, an apartment in the city center costs around ₡1 million ($1,900) per square meter, while outside the city, the price drops to about ₡710,000 ($1,300) per square meter, according to Numbeo. In contrast, city-center properties in the U.S. average $4,600 per square meter, with suburban apartments costing around $3,100 per square meter.

With a growing demand for short-term luxury rentals and yields exceeding 10%, many buyers are eager to invest in Costa Rican real estate. A significant number of foreigners, particularly from the U.S., have purchased beachside properties in recent years, leading to a steep rise in prices along the South Pacific coast and generating strong returns—making Costa Rica a prime investment hotspot.

Disclaimer: “The average price and cost of apartments provided are for illustrative purposes only and reflect a range of values typically found in Costa Rica. Actual prices may vary based on location, size, and other factors.”

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