Beyond rent or a mortgage, what does it actually cost to run a home in Costa Rica? The monthly utilities and everyday expenses are a big part of the affordability picture — here’s a practical 2026 breakdown for expats and retirees.
Electricity
Costa Rica runs on remarkably clean, largely renewable power. Bills depend heavily on air conditioning: in the cool Central Valley many homes barely use AC and pay $40–$80/month, while an AC-dependent beach home can run $150–$300+. Solar is increasingly popular at the coast to tame those bills.
Water
Water is inexpensive — typically $10–$30/month for a household through the public utility (AyA) or a local ASADA. Some communities have their own well or association.
Internet & TV
Fiber internet is widely available in towns and established areas, with solid plans around $30–$60/month. Bundles with streaming/TV are common. In remote areas, connections vary — many expats add a mobile-data backup or Starlink.
Mobile Phone
Cell service is cheap and good. Prepaid or basic monthly plans with generous data run about $10–$25/month through providers like Kölbi, Claro or Movistar.
Cooking Gas & Everyday Costs
- Gas: most homes cook with refillable propane tanks — a few dollars per refill, lasting weeks.
- Groceries: local produce, beans, rice and coffee are very cheap at ferias (farmers markets); imported/processed goods cost more.
- Household help: affordable — part-time cleaning or gardening is common and reasonably priced.
A Realistic Monthly Total
For a typical couple, combined utilities (electric, water, internet, phone, gas) often land around $150–$400/month depending on AC use and location — Central Valley on the low end, air-conditioned beach homes on the high end. It’s a big reason Costa Rica stays affordable.
Planning your budget? Browse homes by region or contact us — we’ll help you estimate real running costs for any property.