San José
Costa Rica
Updated on August 14, 2025
Overview
San José is the capital and largest city of Costa Rica, located in the center of the country in the Central Valley. It serves as the political and economic center of the country, with a population of approximately 352,381 inhabitants. The city is recognized for its high quality of life, security, and environmental performance among Latin American cities.
Average cost of living€1,905.00
Quality of Life78/100
Accommodation
Rent room (flat-share)€350.00
1-bed flat (center)€600.00
1-bed flat (outside)€450.00
3-bed flat (center)€1,200.00
3-bed flat (outside)€850.00
Utilities
Basic utilities€150.00
Internet€45.00
Mobile plan€25.00
Transportation
One-way ticket€1.20
Monthly pass€35.00
Taxi start€850.00
Gasoline (1 l)€870.00
Leisure
Cinema ticket€4,500.00
Fitness club€45.00
Education
Preschool (month)€200.00
Intl. primary (year)€0.00
Buying House
sqm in city center€180,000.00
sqm outside center€120,000.00
Advantages
- ✓ High quality of life compared to other Latin American cities
- ✓ Safe city with low crime rates
- ✓ Economic and political center of the country
- ✓ Good international connectivity through Juan Santamaría Airport
- ✓ Temperate tropical climate year-round
- ✓ Rich cultural offerings with theaters and museums
- ✓ UNESCO recognized Learning City
Disadvantages
- × Heavy traffic congestion during peak hours
- × Relatively high cost of living for the region
- × Occasional water supply issues
- × Limited nightlife compared to other capitals
- × Intense rainy season from May to November