Free tool
City cost comparator
Side-by-side comparison of any two expat cities.
Metric
San José
Tamarindo
Country
Costa Rica
Costa Rica
Region
Central Valley
Guanacaste (Pacific)
Climate
68–78°F year-round. Green season May–Nov.
80–90°F. Dry Nov–Apr, green May–Oct.
Monthly budget (couple)
US$2,400–3,400
US$3,200–4,800
Rent 1BR
US$650–1,100
US$900–1,500
Rent 2BR
US$900–1,600
US$1,400–2,500
Vibe
Urban, walkable pockets, mild spring-like climate year-round.
Surf-town-meets-resort, active expat community, dry hot climate.
Best for
Retirees needing top healthcare · Remote workers · Families needing schools
Retirees who want beach + services · Remote workers · Surfers
Expat neighborhoods
Escazú, Santa Ana, Rohrmoser, Curridabat
Tamarindo center, Langosta, Playa Grande, Villareal
Which one actually fits you?
A vetted relocation Pro in each country can pressure-test both against your real numbers — residency, healthcare, schools, taxes. Free to ask.
Data reflects 2026 Arriva field research. Neighborhood-level costs vary — treat as directional, not exact.