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Costa Rica Facts And Figures

Our Costa Rica facts and figures cover everything from population to capital city, taxes to property ownership, and much more.

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Facts About Costa Rica

Key Takeaways: Costa Rica Facts And Figures in 2026

The capital is San José with a population of 1.46 million.
Sales tax is 13%, with luxury taxes applicable to high-end homes.
U.S. and Canadian citizens do not need a visa for tourist entries.
Tourists can stay for up to 90 days with a valid passport.

Reviewed By Lief Simon

Lief Simon is the managing editor of Global Property Advisor, Simon Letter, and Offshore Living Letter. He has purchased more than 45 properties, investing in 23 different countries around the world.

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Information Type	Costa Rica Data
Population	5,212,173 (2023)
Gross Domestic Product PPP (GDP)	US$139 billion (2023 est.)
GDP Per Capita	US$26,422 (2023). Costa Rica made a strong recovery from the recession caused by the pandemic, as highlighted in the Economic Survey from February 2023.
Inflation Rate	-1.87% (2023)
Currency	Costa Rican colón
Exchange Rate Versus U.S. Dollar	514.32 colones per U.S. dollar (Feb. 2024)
Language	Spanish (official), English
Capital	San José
Population of Capital City	1.46 million (2023)
Time Zone	GMT – 6 (One hour behind Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Seasons	Tropical and subtropical; dry season (December to April); rainy season (May to November); cooler in highlands
International Dialing Code	506
Electricity	120V / 60Hz: Plug Types: A/B
System of Government	Democratic Republic
Current Leader	President Rodrigo Chaves Robles (since May, 2022)
Income Tax Rate for Residents	Progressive Tax of 15%, Self-employed range from 10% to 25%
Property Tax	0.25% of appraised value
Capital Gains Tax	Capital gains are exempted unless the gains are derived from the habitual activity of the seller or the assests sold are tangible and can be depreciated. Such gains are taxed at 30%.
Inheritance Tax	Inheritance and gifts are not specifically taxed in Costa Rica.
Rental Income Tax	1.5% transfer tax and 0.25% municipal tax on real property apply. And annual “luxury house tax” also apply depending on the value of the asset
Transfer Tax	1.5%
Sales Tax	13% (no tax on basic items)
Restrictions on Foreign Ownership of Property	No
Local Chamber of Commerce	http://www.camara-comercio.com/
American Chamber of Commerce	http://www.amcham.co.cr/
Primary Exports	Bananas, pineapples, coffee, melons, ornamental plants, sugar; beef; seafood; electronic components, medical equipment.
Residency and Visa Requirements	Generally, citizens of the United States, Canada and the European Union countries do not require a visa to enter Costa Rica. Those citizens can enter Costa Rica with their valid passport and remain in the country for up to a maximum of 90 days.
Residents or Retirees	Pensionados (retirees with pensions) only need to have a US$600 pension per month to qualify for retirement Visas. These must be renewed every year. Anyone over the age of 45 can apply for retirement resisdency. No taxes on retirement income. Foreigners living in CR do not have to pay taxes on money earned abroad.
National Airline	www.taca.com

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Reviewed By Lief Simon

Lief Simon is the managing editor of Global Property Advisor, Simon Letter, and Offshore Living Letter. He has purchased more than 45 properties, investing in 23 different countries around the world.

Start Your New Overseas Life Today

We Value Your Privacy! We will not share your email address with anyone else, period.

Costa Rica Facts And Figures- FAQs

Be The First To Ask About Costa Rica Facts And Figures

Where Is Portugal?

Portugal is on the Iberian Peninsula, in the southwest corner of Europe. Portugal shares that peninsula Spain, its larger neighbor.

What Is Portugal Known For?

Portugal is known for Fado music and also for being the largest cork producer in the world.

When Are The Best Months To Travel To Portugal?

Portugal’s high season is during July and August, especially to coastal areas. Expect to pay at least a 30% premium on accommodation and encounter warm weather across the country.

Is Portugal A Good Place For Retirement

Yes, Portugal is a sought after retirement destination. In fact, it’s one the world’s top retirement havens.