Costa Rica
Central America and the CaribbeanCS December 30, 2025
Background
Although explored by the Spanish early in the 16th century, initial attempts at colonizing Costa Rica proved unsuccessful due to a combination of factors, including disease from mosquito-infested swamps, brutal heat, resistance from Indigenous populations, and pirate raids. It was not until 1563 that a permanent settlement of Cartago was established in the cooler, fertile central highlands. The area remained a colony for some two-and-a-half centuries. In 1821, Costa Rica was one of several Central American provinces that jointly declared independence from Spain. Two years later it joined the United Provinces of Central America, but this federation disintegrated in 1838, at which time Costa Rica proclaimed its sovereignty and independence.
Since the late 19th century, only two brief periods of violence have marred the country's democratic development. General Federico TINOCO Granados led a coup in 1917, but the threat of US intervention pushed him to resign in 1919. In 1948, landowner Jose FIGUERES Ferrer raised his own army and rebelled against the government. The brief civil war ended with an agreement to allow FIGUERES to remain in power for 18 months, then step down in favor of the previously elected Otilio ULATE. FIGUERES was later elected twice in his own right, in 1953 and 1970.
Costa Rica experienced destabilizing waves of refugees from Central American civil wars in the 1970s and 1980s, but peace in the region has since helped the economy rebound. Although it still maintains a large agricultural sector, Costa Rica has expanded its economy to include strong technology and tourism industries.
Since the late 19th century, only two brief periods of violence have marred the country's democratic development. General Federico TINOCO Granados led a coup in 1917, but the threat of US intervention pushed him to resign in 1919. In 1948, landowner Jose FIGUERES Ferrer raised his own army and rebelled against the government. The brief civil war ended with an agreement to allow FIGUERES to remain in power for 18 months, then step down in favor of the previously elected Otilio ULATE. FIGUERES was later elected twice in his own right, in 1953 and 1970.
Costa Rica experienced destabilizing waves of refugees from Central American civil wars in the 1970s and 1980s, but peace in the region has since helped the economy rebound. Although it still maintains a large agricultural sector, Costa Rica has expanded its economy to include strong technology and tourism industries.
Geographic coordinates
10 00 N, 84 00 W
Natural hazards
occasional earthquakes, hurricanes along Atlantic coast; frequent flooding of lowlands at onset of rainy season and landslides; active volcanoes
Volcanism: Arenal (1,670 m) is the most active volcano in Costa Rica; a 1968 eruption destroyed the town of Tabacon; Irazu (3,432 m), situated just east of San Jose, has the potential to spew ash over the capital city, as it did between 1963 and 1965; other historically active volcanoes include Miravalles, Poas, Rincon de la Vieja, and Turrialba
Volcanism: Arenal (1,670 m) is the most active volcano in Costa Rica; a 1968 eruption destroyed the town of Tabacon; Irazu (3,432 m), situated just east of San Jose, has the potential to spew ash over the capital city, as it did between 1963 and 1965; other historically active volcanoes include Miravalles, Poas, Rincon de la Vieja, and Turrialba
Area - comparative
slightly smaller than West Virginia
Environmental issues
deforestation, largely from clearing land for cattle ranching and agriculture; soil erosion; coastal marine pollution; fisheries protection; solid waste management; air pollution
International environmental agreements
Party to: Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban, Desertification, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping-London Convention, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Tropical Timber 2006, Wetlands, Whaling
Signed, but not ratified: Marine Life Conservation
Signed, but not ratified: Marine Life Conservation
Climate
tropical and subtropical; dry season (December to April); rainy season (May to November); cooler in highlands
Coastline
1,290 km
Land boundaries
Total: 661 km
Border countries (2): Nicaragua 313 km; Panama 348 km
Border countries (2): Nicaragua 313 km; Panama 348 km
Land use
Agricultural land: 33.1% (2023 est.)
Arable land: 3.3% (2023 est.)
Permanent crops: 7.4% (2023 est.)
Permanent pasture: 22.5% (2023 est.)
Forest: 58.4% (2023 est.)
Other: 8.4% (2023 est.)
Arable land: 3.3% (2023 est.)
Permanent crops: 7.4% (2023 est.)
Permanent pasture: 22.5% (2023 est.)
Forest: 58.4% (2023 est.)
Other: 8.4% (2023 est.)
Maritime claims
Territorial sea: 12 nm
Exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
Continental shelf: 200 nm
Exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
Continental shelf: 200 nm
Natural resources
hydropower
Geography - note
four volcanoes, two of them active, rise near the capital of San Jose in the center of the country; one of the volcanoes, Irazu, erupted destructively in 1963-65
Terrain
coastal plains separated by rugged mountains including over 100 volcanic cones, of which several are major active volcanoes
Location
Central America, bordering both the Caribbean Sea and the North Pacific Ocean, between Nicaragua and Panama
Map references
Central America and the Caribbean
Irrigated land
1,015 sq km (2012)
Total renewable water resources
113 billion cubic meters (2022 est.)
Population distribution
roughly half of the nation's population resides in urban areas; the capital of San Jose is the largest city and home to approximately one fifth of the population
Elevation
Highest point: Cerro Chirripo 3,819 m
Lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m
Mean elevation: 746 m
Lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m
Mean elevation: 746 m
Area
Total : 51,100 sq km
Land: 51,060 sq km
Water: 40 sq km
Note: Includes Isla del Coco
Land: 51,060 sq km
Water: 40 sq km
Note: Includes Isla del Coco
Age structure
0-14 years: 18.8% (male 506,041/female 482,481)
15-64 years: 70.2% (male 1,862,872/female 1,832,024)
65 years and over: 11.1% (2024 est.) (male 266,568/female 315,589)
15-64 years: 70.2% (male 1,862,872/female 1,832,024)
65 years and over: 11.1% (2024 est.) (male 266,568/female 315,589)
Sex ratio
At birth: 1.05 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.05 male(s)/female
15-64 years: 1.02 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.84 male(s)/female
Total population: 1 male(s)/female (2024 est.)
0-14 years: 1.05 male(s)/female
15-64 years: 1.02 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.84 male(s)/female
Total population: 1 male(s)/female (2024 est.)
Literacy
Female: 94.1% (2018 est.)
Nationality
Noun: Costa Rican(s)
Adjective: Costa Rican
Adjective: Costa Rican
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education)
Total: 16 years (2019 est.)
Male: 15 years (2019 est.)
Female: 16 years (2019 est.)
Male: 15 years (2019 est.)
Female: 16 years (2019 est.)
Urbanization
Urban population: 82.6% of total population (2023)
Rate of urbanization: 1.5% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Rate of urbanization: 1.5% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Drinking water source
Improved:
Urban: 99.8% of population (2022 est.)
Rural: 99.6% of population (2022 est.)
Total: 99.8% of population (2022 est.)
Unimproved:
Urban: 0.2% of population (2022 est.)
Rural: 0.4% of population (2022 est.)
Total: 0.2% of population (2022 est.)
Urban: 99.8% of population (2022 est.)
Rural: 99.6% of population (2022 est.)
Total: 99.8% of population (2022 est.)
Unimproved:
Urban: 0.2% of population (2022 est.)
Rural: 0.4% of population (2022 est.)
Total: 0.2% of population (2022 est.)
Major urban areas - population
1.462 million SAN JOSE (capital) (2023)
Physician density
2.69 physicians/1,000 population (2022)
Hospital bed density
1.2 beds/1,000 population (2021 est.)
Dependency ratios
Total dependency ratio: 42.5 (2024 est.)
Youth dependency ratio: 26.8 (2024 est.)
Elderly dependency ratio: 15.8 (2024 est.)
Potential support ratio: 6.3 (2024 est.)
Youth dependency ratio: 26.8 (2024 est.)
Elderly dependency ratio: 15.8 (2024 est.)
Potential support ratio: 6.3 (2024 est.)
Sanitation facility access
Improved:
Urban: 99.2% of population (2022 est.)
Rural: 97.6% of population (2022 est.)
Total: 98.9% of population (2022 est.)
Unimproved:
Urban: 0.8% of population (2022 est.)
Rural: 2.4% of population (2022 est.)
Total: 1.1% of population (2022 est.)
Urban: 99.2% of population (2022 est.)
Rural: 97.6% of population (2022 est.)
Total: 98.9% of population (2022 est.)
Unimproved:
Urban: 0.8% of population (2022 est.)
Rural: 2.4% of population (2022 est.)
Total: 1.1% of population (2022 est.)
Ethnic groups
White or Mestizo 83.6%, Mulatto 6.7%, Indigenous 2.4%, Black or African descent 1.1%, other 1.1%, none 2.9%, unspecified 2.2% (2011 est.)
Religions
Roman Catholic 47.5%, Evangelical and Pentecostal 19.8%, Jehovah's Witness 1.4%, other Protestant 1.2%, other 3.1%, none 27% (2021 est.)
Languages
Spanish (official), English
Major-language sample(s):
La Libreta Informativa del Mundo, la fuente indispensable de información básica. (Spanish)
The World Factbook, the indispensable source for basic information.
Major-language sample(s):
La Libreta Informativa del Mundo, la fuente indispensable de información básica. (Spanish)
The World Factbook, the indispensable source for basic information.
Health expenditure
7.6% of GDP (2021)
25.8% of national budget (2022 est.)
25.8% of national budget (2022 est.)
Child marriage
Women married by age 15: 2% (2018)
Women married by age 18: 17.1% (2018)
Women married by age 18: 17.1% (2018)
Gross reproduction rate
0.7 (2024 est.)
Currently married women (ages 15-49)
41.7% (2022 est.)
Youth unemployment rate (ages 15-24)
Total: 23% (2024 est.)
Male: 20.7% (2024 est.)
Female: 26.2% (2024 est.)
note: % of labor force ages 15-24 seeking employment
Male: 20.7% (2024 est.)
Female: 26.2% (2024 est.)
note: % of labor force ages 15-24 seeking employment
Net migration rate
1.9 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2024 est.)
Median age
Total: 35.5 years (2024 est.)
Male: 34.9 years
Female: 36.1 years
Male: 34.9 years
Female: 36.1 years
Maternal mortality ratio
24 deaths/100,000 live births (2023 est.)
Total fertility rate
1.43 children born/woman (2024 est.)
Population
Total: 5,265,575 (2024 est.)
Male: 2,635,481
Female: 2,630,094
Male: 2,635,481
Female: 2,630,094
Infant mortality rate
Total: 6.7 deaths/1,000 live births (2024 est.)
Male: 7 deaths/1,000 live births
Female: 6.3 deaths/1,000 live births
Male: 7 deaths/1,000 live births
Female: 6.3 deaths/1,000 live births
Tobacco use
Total: 8.1% (2025 est.)
Male: 12.2% (2025 est.)
Female: 4.1% (2025 est.)
Male: 12.2% (2025 est.)
Female: 4.1% (2025 est.)
Obesity - adult prevalence rate
25.7% (2016)
Death rate
5.3 deaths/1,000 population (2024 est.)
Birth rate
10.8 births/1,000 population (2024 est.)
Children under the age of 5 years underweight
2.9% (2018 est.)
Alcohol consumption per capita
Total: 3.07 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Beer: 2.17 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Wine: 0.15 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Spirits: 0.36 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Other alcohols: 0.39 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Beer: 2.17 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Wine: 0.15 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Spirits: 0.36 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Other alcohols: 0.39 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Life expectancy at birth
Total population: 80.3 years (2024 est.)
Male: 77.7 years
Female: 82.9 years
Male: 77.7 years
Female: 82.9 years
Education expenditure
6.2% of GDP (2021 est.)
31.2% national budget (2021 est.)
31.2% national budget (2021 est.)
Population growth rate
0.74% (2024 est.)
Total water withdrawal
Municipal: 1.109 billion cubic meters (2022 est.)
Industrial: 245.34 million cubic meters (2022 est.)
Agricultural: 2.093 billion cubic meters (2022 est.)
Industrial: 245.34 million cubic meters (2022 est.)
Agricultural: 2.093 billion cubic meters (2022 est.)
Waste and recycling
Municipal solid waste generated annually: 1.46 million tons (2024 est.)
Percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 5.4% (2022 est.)
Percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 5.4% (2022 est.)
Particulate matter emissions
15.1 micrograms per cubic meter (2019 est.)
Carbon dioxide emissions
7.91 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
From coal and metallurgical coke: 58,000 metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
From petroleum and other liquids: 7.852 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
From coal and metallurgical coke: 58,000 metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
From petroleum and other liquids: 7.852 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
Energy consumption per capita
30.725 million Btu/person (2023 est.)
Administrative divisions
7 provinces (provincias, singular - provincia); Alajuela, Cartago, Guanacaste, Heredia, Limon, Puntarenas, San Jose
Capital
Name: San José
Geographic coordinates: 9 56 N, 84 05 W
Time difference: UTC-6 (1 hour behind Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Etymology: Spanish settlers originally named the city Villa Nueva in 1736; it was later renamed for Saint Joseph
Geographic coordinates: 9 56 N, 84 05 W
Time difference: UTC-6 (1 hour behind Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Etymology: Spanish settlers originally named the city Villa Nueva in 1736; it was later renamed for Saint Joseph
Constitution
History: Many previous; latest effective 8 November 1949
Amendment process: Proposals require the signatures of at least 10 Legislative Assembly members or petition of at least 5% of qualified voters; consideration of proposals requires two-thirds majority approval in each of three readings by the Assembly, followed by preparation of the proposal as a legislative bill and its approval by simple majority of the Assembly; passage requires at least two-thirds majority vote of the Assembly membership; a referendum is required only if approved by at least two thirds of the Assembly
Amendment process: Proposals require the signatures of at least 10 Legislative Assembly members or petition of at least 5% of qualified voters; consideration of proposals requires two-thirds majority approval in each of three readings by the Assembly, followed by preparation of the proposal as a legislative bill and its approval by simple majority of the Assembly; passage requires at least two-thirds majority vote of the Assembly membership; a referendum is required only if approved by at least two thirds of the Assembly
Flag
Description: Five horizontal bands of blue (top), white, red (double-width), white, and blue, with the coat of arms in a white elliptical disk placed toward the left side of the red band
Meaning: The blue is said to stand for the sky, opportunity, and perseverance; the white for peace, happiness, and wisdom; and the red for the blood shed for freedom, as well as Costa Ricans' generosity and vibrancy
History: Costa Rica retained the earlier blue-white-blue flag of Central America until 1848 when, in response to revolutions in Europe, it was decided to incorporate the French colors by adding a central red stripe
Note: Somewhat resembles the flag of North Korea; similar to the flag of Thailand, but with the blue and red colors reversed
Meaning: The blue is said to stand for the sky, opportunity, and perseverance; the white for peace, happiness, and wisdom; and the red for the blood shed for freedom, as well as Costa Ricans' generosity and vibrancy
History: Costa Rica retained the earlier blue-white-blue flag of Central America until 1848 when, in response to revolutions in Europe, it was decided to incorporate the French colors by adding a central red stripe
Note: Somewhat resembles the flag of North Korea; similar to the flag of Thailand, but with the blue and red colors reversed
Independence
15 September 1821 (from Spain)
Judicial branch
Highest court(s): Supreme Court of Justice (consists of 22 judges organized into 3 cassation chambers each with 5 judges and the Constitutional Chamber with 7 judges)
Judge selection and term of office: Supreme Court of Justice judges elected by the National Assembly for 8-year terms with renewal decided by the National Assembly
Subordinate courts: Appellate courts; trial courts; first instance and justice of the peace courts; Superior Electoral Tribunal
Judge selection and term of office: Supreme Court of Justice judges elected by the National Assembly for 8-year terms with renewal decided by the National Assembly
Subordinate courts: Appellate courts; trial courts; first instance and justice of the peace courts; Superior Electoral Tribunal
Legal system
civil law system based on Spanish civil code; Supreme Court reviews legislative acts
Legislative branch
Legislature name: Legislative Assembly (Asamblea Legislativa)
Legislative structure: Unicameral
Number of seats: 57 (all directly elected)
Electoral system: Proportional representation
Scope of elections: Full renewal
Term in office: 4 years
Most recent election date: 2/6/2022
Parties elected and seats per party: National Liberation Party (PLN) (19); Democratic Social Progress Party (PPSD) (10); Christian Social Unity Party (USC) (9); New Republic Party (NR) (7); Broad Front (FA) (6); Progressive Liberal Party (LP) (6)
Percentage of women in chamber: 49.1%
Expected date of next election: February 2026
Legislative structure: Unicameral
Number of seats: 57 (all directly elected)
Electoral system: Proportional representation
Scope of elections: Full renewal
Term in office: 4 years
Most recent election date: 2/6/2022
Parties elected and seats per party: National Liberation Party (PLN) (19); Democratic Social Progress Party (PPSD) (10); Christian Social Unity Party (USC) (9); New Republic Party (NR) (7); Broad Front (FA) (6); Progressive Liberal Party (LP) (6)
Percentage of women in chamber: 49.1%
Expected date of next election: February 2026
International organization participation
ACS, BCIE, CACM, CD, CELAC, FAO, G-77, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC (national committees), ICCt, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, IMSO, Interpol, IOC, IOM, IPU, ISO, ITSO, ITU, ITUC (NGOs), LAES, LAIA (observer), MIGA, NAM (observer), OAS, OIF (observer), OPANAL, OPCW, Pacific Alliance (observer), PCA, SICA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, Union Latina, UNOOSA, UNWTO, UPU, WCO, WFTU (NGOs), WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
National holiday
Independence Day, 15 September (1821)
Political parties
Accessibility Without Exclusion or PASE
Broad Front (Frente Amplio) or PFA
Citizen Action Party or PAC
Costa Rican Renewal Party or PRC
Here Costa Rica Commands Party or ACRM
Liberal Progressive Party or PLP
Libertarian Movement Party or ML
National Integration Party or PIN
National Liberation Party or PLN
National Restoration Party or PRN
New Generation or PNG
New Republic Party or PNR
Social Christian Republican Party or PRSC
Social Christian Unity Party or PUSC of UNIDAD
Social Democratic Progress Party or PPSD
Broad Front (Frente Amplio) or PFA
Citizen Action Party or PAC
Costa Rican Renewal Party or PRC
Here Costa Rica Commands Party or ACRM
Liberal Progressive Party or PLP
Libertarian Movement Party or ML
National Integration Party or PIN
National Liberation Party or PLN
National Restoration Party or PRN
New Generation or PNG
New Republic Party or PNR
Social Christian Republican Party or PRSC
Social Christian Unity Party or PUSC of UNIDAD
Social Democratic Progress Party or PPSD
Suffrage
18 years of age; universal and compulsory
Government type
presidential republic
Country name
Conventional long form: Republic of Costa Rica
Conventional short form: Costa Rica
Local long form: República de Costa Rica
Local short form: Costa Rica
Etymology: The name means "rich coast" in Spanish; Christopher COLUMBUS named it in 1502, referring to the region's abundant vegetation and water
Conventional short form: Costa Rica
Local long form: República de Costa Rica
Local short form: Costa Rica
Etymology: The name means "rich coast" in Spanish; Christopher COLUMBUS named it in 1502, referring to the region's abundant vegetation and water
Diplomatic representation in the US
Chief of mission: Ambassador Catalina CRESPO SANCHO (since 19 April 2023)
Chancery: 2114 S Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
Telephone: [1] (202) 499-2980
FAX: [1] (202) 265-4795
Email address and website:
Embcr-us@rree.go.cr
https://www.embassycr.org/
Consulate(s) general: Atlanta, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Washington DC
Chancery: 2114 S Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
Telephone: [1] (202) 499-2980
FAX: [1] (202) 265-4795
Email address and website:
Embcr-us@rree.go.cr
https://www.embassycr.org/
Consulate(s) general: Atlanta, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Washington DC
National anthem(s)
Title: "Himno Nacional de Costa Rica" (National Anthem of Costa Rica)
Lyrics/music: Jose Maria ZELEDON Brenes/Manuel Maria GUTIERREZ
History: Adopted 1949; the music was originally written for a welcome ceremony in 1852 for the US and UK diplomatic missions; the lyrics were added in 1900
Lyrics/music: Jose Maria ZELEDON Brenes/Manuel Maria GUTIERREZ
History: Adopted 1949; the music was originally written for a welcome ceremony in 1852 for the US and UK diplomatic missions; the lyrics were added in 1900
International law organization participation
accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction; accepts ICCt jurisdiction
National symbol(s)
yiguirro (clay-colored thrush)
Citizenship
Citizenship by birth: Yes
Citizenship by descent only: Yes
Dual citizenship recognized: Yes
Residency requirement for naturalization: 7 years
Citizenship by descent only: Yes
Dual citizenship recognized: Yes
Residency requirement for naturalization: 7 years
National heritage
Total World Heritage Sites: 4 (1 cultural, 3 natural)
Selected World Heritage Site locales: Guanacaste Conservation Area (n); Cocos Island National Park (n); Precolumbian Stone Spheres (c); La Amistad International Park (n)
Selected World Heritage Site locales: Guanacaste Conservation Area (n); Cocos Island National Park (n); Precolumbian Stone Spheres (c); La Amistad International Park (n)
National color(s)
blue, white, red
Diplomatic representation from the US
Chief of mission: Ambassador-designate Melinda HILDEBRAND (since 3 December 2025); Chargé d’Affaires Jennifer SAVAGE (since August 2025)
Embassy: Calle 98 Via 104, Pavas, San Jose
Mailing address: 3180 St. George's Place, Washington DC 20521-3180
Telephone: [506] 2519-2000
FAX: [506] 2519-2305
Email address and website:
Acssanjose@state.gov
https://cr.usembassy.gov/
Embassy: Calle 98 Via 104, Pavas, San Jose
Mailing address: 3180 St. George's Place, Washington DC 20521-3180
Telephone: [506] 2519-2000
FAX: [506] 2519-2305
Email address and website:
Acssanjose@state.gov
https://cr.usembassy.gov/
Executive branch
Chief of state: President Rodrigo CHAVES Robles (since 8 May 2022)
Head of government: President Rodrigo CHAVES Robles (since 8 May 2022)
Cabinet: Cabinet selected by the president
Election/appointment process: President and vice presidents directly elected on the same ballot by modified majority popular vote (40% threshold) for a 4-year term (eligible for non-consecutive terms)
Most recent election date: 6 February 2022, with a runoff on 3 April 2022
Election results:
2022: Rodrigo CHAVES Robles elected president in second round; percent of vote in first round - Jose Maria FIGUERES Olsen (PLN) 27.3%, Rodrigo CHAVES Robles (PPSD) 16.8%, Fabricio ALVARADO Munoz (PNR) 14.9%, Eliecer FEINZAIG Mintz (PLP) 12.4%, Lineth SABORIO Chaverri (PUSC) 12.4%, Jose Maria VILLALTA Florez-Estrada 8.7% (PFA), other 7.5%; percent of vote in second round - Rodrigo CHAVES Robles (PPSD) 52.8%, Jose Maria FIGUERES Olsen (PLN) 47.2%
2018: Carlos ALVARADO Quesada elected president in second round; percent of vote in first round - Fabricio ALVARADO Munoz (PRN) 25%; Carlos ALVARADO Quesada (PAC) 21.6%; Antonio ALVAREZ (PLN) 18.6%; Rodolfo PIZA (PUSC) 16%; Juan Diego CASTRO (PIN) 9.5%; Rodolfo HERNANDEZ (PRSC) 4.9%, other 4.4%; percent of vote in second round - Carlos ALVARADO Quesada (PAC) 60.7%; Fabricio ALVARADO Munoz (PRN) 39.3%
Expected date of next election: 1 February 2026 (a runoff, if needed, will take place in April 2026)
Note: The president is both chief of state and head of government
Head of government: President Rodrigo CHAVES Robles (since 8 May 2022)
Cabinet: Cabinet selected by the president
Election/appointment process: President and vice presidents directly elected on the same ballot by modified majority popular vote (40% threshold) for a 4-year term (eligible for non-consecutive terms)
Most recent election date: 6 February 2022, with a runoff on 3 April 2022
Election results:
2022: Rodrigo CHAVES Robles elected president in second round; percent of vote in first round - Jose Maria FIGUERES Olsen (PLN) 27.3%, Rodrigo CHAVES Robles (PPSD) 16.8%, Fabricio ALVARADO Munoz (PNR) 14.9%, Eliecer FEINZAIG Mintz (PLP) 12.4%, Lineth SABORIO Chaverri (PUSC) 12.4%, Jose Maria VILLALTA Florez-Estrada 8.7% (PFA), other 7.5%; percent of vote in second round - Rodrigo CHAVES Robles (PPSD) 52.8%, Jose Maria FIGUERES Olsen (PLN) 47.2%
2018: Carlos ALVARADO Quesada elected president in second round; percent of vote in first round - Fabricio ALVARADO Munoz (PRN) 25%; Carlos ALVARADO Quesada (PAC) 21.6%; Antonio ALVAREZ (PLN) 18.6%; Rodolfo PIZA (PUSC) 16%; Juan Diego CASTRO (PIN) 9.5%; Rodolfo HERNANDEZ (PRSC) 4.9%, other 4.4%; percent of vote in second round - Carlos ALVARADO Quesada (PAC) 60.7%; Fabricio ALVARADO Munoz (PRN) 39.3%
Expected date of next election: 1 February 2026 (a runoff, if needed, will take place in April 2026)
Note: The president is both chief of state and head of government
Population below poverty line
24.4% (2023 est.)
note: % of population with income below national poverty line
note: % of population with income below national poverty line
Household income or consumption by percentage share
Lowest 10%: 1.7% (2024 est.)
Highest 10%: 34.2% (2024 est.)
note: % share of income accruing to lowest and highest 10% of population
Highest 10%: 34.2% (2024 est.)
note: % share of income accruing to lowest and highest 10% of population
Exports - commodities
medical instruments, integrated circuits, orthopedic appliances, bananas, tropical fruits (2023)
note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
Exports - partners
USA 40%, Netherlands 6%, China 5%, Guatemala 4%, Belgium 3% (2023)
note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
Agricultural products
sugarcane, pineapples, bananas, oil palm fruit, milk, fruits, oranges, chicken, cassava, beef (2023)
note: top ten agricultural products based on tonnage
note: top ten agricultural products based on tonnage
Budget
Revenues: $26.333 billion (2023 est.)
Expenditures: $25.953 billion (2023 est.)
note: central government revenues (excluding grants) and expenditures converted to US dollars at average official exchange rate for year indicated
Expenditures: $25.953 billion (2023 est.)
note: central government revenues (excluding grants) and expenditures converted to US dollars at average official exchange rate for year indicated
Imports - commodities
refined petroleum, plastic products, cars, medical instruments, broadcasting equipment (2023)
note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
Exchange rates
Costa Rican colones (CRC) per US dollar -
Exchange rates:
515.11 (2024 est.)
544.051 (2023 est.)
647.136 (2022 est.)
620.785 (2021 est.)
584.901 (2020 est.)
Exchange rates:
515.11 (2024 est.)
544.051 (2023 est.)
647.136 (2022 est.)
620.785 (2021 est.)
584.901 (2020 est.)
Industries
medical equipment, food processing, textiles and clothing, construction materials, fertilizer, plastic products
Economic overview
trade-based upper middle-income economy; green economy leader, having reversed deforestation; investing in blue economy infrastructure; declining poverty until hard impacts of COVID-19; lingering inequality and growing government debts have prompted a liquidity crisis
GDP (official exchange rate)
$95.35 billion (2024 est.)
note: data in current dollars at official exchange rate
note: data in current dollars at official exchange rate
GDP - composition, by end use
Household consumption: 63.9% (2024 est.)
Government consumption: 14.7% (2024 est.)
Investment in fixed capital: 15.8% (2024 est.)
Investment in inventories: -0.1% (2024 est.)
Exports of goods and services: 38.5% (2024 est.)
Imports of goods and services: -32.8% (2024 est.)
note: figures may not total 100% due to rounding or gaps in data collection
Government consumption: 14.7% (2024 est.)
Investment in fixed capital: 15.8% (2024 est.)
Investment in inventories: -0.1% (2024 est.)
Exports of goods and services: 38.5% (2024 est.)
Imports of goods and services: -32.8% (2024 est.)
note: figures may not total 100% due to rounding or gaps in data collection
Imports - partners
USA 38%, China 15%, Mexico 6%, Brazil 3%, Guatemala 3% (2023)
note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
Average household expenditures
On food: 21.3% of household expenditures (2023 est.)
On alcohol and tobacco: 1.7% of household expenditures (2023 est.)
On alcohol and tobacco: 1.7% of household expenditures (2023 est.)
Remittances
0.8% of GDP (2024 est.)
0.8% of GDP (2023 est.)
0.9% of GDP (2022 est.)
note: personal transfers and compensation between resident and non-resident individuals/households/entities
0.8% of GDP (2023 est.)
0.9% of GDP (2022 est.)
note: personal transfers and compensation between resident and non-resident individuals/households/entities
Labor force
2.357 million (2024 est.)
note: number of people ages 15 or older who are employed or seeking work
note: number of people ages 15 or older who are employed or seeking work
Debt - external
$15.574 billion (2023 est.)
note: present value of external debt in current US dollars
note: present value of external debt in current US dollars
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold
$14.177 billion (2024 est.)
$13.225 billion (2023 est.)
$8.554 billion (2022 est.)
note: holdings of gold (year-end prices)/foreign exchange/special drawing rights in current dollars
$13.225 billion (2023 est.)
$8.554 billion (2022 est.)
note: holdings of gold (year-end prices)/foreign exchange/special drawing rights in current dollars
Unemployment rate
7.9% (2024 est.)
8.4% (2023 est.)
11.4% (2022 est.)
note: % of labor force seeking employment
8.4% (2023 est.)
11.4% (2022 est.)
note: % of labor force seeking employment
Taxes and other revenues
13.9% (of GDP) (2023 est.)
note: central government tax revenue as a % of GDP
note: central government tax revenue as a % of GDP
Real GDP (purchasing power parity)
$138.371 billion (2024 est.)
$132.64 billion (2023 est.)
$126.189 billion (2022 est.)
note: data in 2021 dollars
$132.64 billion (2023 est.)
$126.189 billion (2022 est.)
note: data in 2021 dollars
Inflation rate (consumer prices)
-0.4% (2024 est.)
0.5% (2023 est.)
8.3% (2022 est.)
note: annual % change based on consumer prices
0.5% (2023 est.)
8.3% (2022 est.)
note: annual % change based on consumer prices
Current account balance
-$1.291 billion (2024 est.)
-$1.239 billion (2023 est.)
-$2.272 billion (2022 est.)
note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
-$1.239 billion (2023 est.)
-$2.272 billion (2022 est.)
note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
Real GDP per capita
$27,000 (2024 est.)
$26,000 (2023 est.)
$24,800 (2022 est.)
note: data in 2021 dollars
$26,000 (2023 est.)
$24,800 (2022 est.)
note: data in 2021 dollars
Imports
$30.459 billion (2024 est.)
$28.413 billion (2023 est.)
$27.095 billion (2022 est.)
note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
$28.413 billion (2023 est.)
$27.095 billion (2022 est.)
note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
Exports
$36.77 billion (2024 est.)
$33.683 billion (2023 est.)
$29.392 billion (2022 est.)
note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
$33.683 billion (2023 est.)
$29.392 billion (2022 est.)
note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
Real GDP growth rate
4.3% (2024 est.)
5.1% (2023 est.)
4.6% (2022 est.)
note: annual GDP % growth based on constant local currency
5.1% (2023 est.)
4.6% (2022 est.)
note: annual GDP % growth based on constant local currency
Industrial production growth rate
4.1% (2024 est.)
note: annual % change in industrial value added based on constant local currency
note: annual % change in industrial value added based on constant local currency
GDP - composition, by sector of origin
Agriculture: 3.6% (2024 est.)
Industry: 19.7% (2024 est.)
Services: 68.8% (2024 est.)
note: figures may not total 100% due to non-allocated consumption not captured in sector-reported data
Industry: 19.7% (2024 est.)
Services: 68.8% (2024 est.)
note: figures may not total 100% due to non-allocated consumption not captured in sector-reported data
Electricity access
Electrification - total population: 100% (2022 est.)
Coal
Consumption: 23,000 metric tons (2023 est.)
Imports: 24,000 metric tons (2023 est.)
Imports: 24,000 metric tons (2023 est.)
Electricity generation sources
Fossil fuels: 0.1% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Solar: 0.7% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Wind: 12.7% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Hydroelectricity: 72.9% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Geothermal: 13.1% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Biomass and waste: 0.5% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Solar: 0.7% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Wind: 12.7% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Hydroelectricity: 72.9% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Geothermal: 13.1% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Biomass and waste: 0.5% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Petroleum
Total petroleum production: 400 bbl/day (2023 est.)
Refined petroleum consumption: 60,000 bbl/day (2023 est.)
Refined petroleum consumption: 60,000 bbl/day (2023 est.)
Electricity
Installed generating capacity: 3.751 million kW (2023 est.)
Consumption: 9.957 billion kWh (2023 est.)
Exports: 774 million kWh (2023 est.)
Imports: 54 million kWh (2023 est.)
Transmission/distribution losses: 1.039 billion kWh (2023 est.)
Consumption: 9.957 billion kWh (2023 est.)
Exports: 774 million kWh (2023 est.)
Imports: 54 million kWh (2023 est.)
Transmission/distribution losses: 1.039 billion kWh (2023 est.)
Internet users
Percent of population: 85% (2023 est.)
Internet country code
.cr
Broadcast media
over two dozen privately owned TV stations and 1 publicly owned TV station; cable network services are widely available; more than 100 privately owned radio stations and a public radio network (2022)
Telephones - mobile cellular
Total subscriptions: 7.44 million (2023 est.)
Subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 152 (2022 est.)
Subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 152 (2022 est.)
Broadband - fixed subscriptions
Total: 1.15 million (2023 est.)
Subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 23 (2023 est.)
Subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 23 (2023 est.)
Telephones - fixed lines
Total subscriptions: 678,000 (2023 est.)
Subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 13 (2023 est.)
Subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 13 (2023 est.)
Railways
Total: 278 km (2014)
Narrow gauge: 278 km (2014) 1.067-m gauge
Note: The entire rail network fell into disrepair and out of use at the end of the 20th century; since 2005, certain sections of rail have been rehabilitated
Narrow gauge: 278 km (2014) 1.067-m gauge
Note: The entire rail network fell into disrepair and out of use at the end of the 20th century; since 2005, certain sections of rail have been rehabilitated
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix
TI
Airports
132 (2025)
Merchant marine
Total: 11 (2023)
By type: Other 11
By type: Other 11
Heliports
8 (2025)
Military and security forces
Ministry of Public Security (Ministerio de Seguridad Pública de Costa Rica): National Police (Fuerza Pública), Air Surveillance Service (Servicio de Vigilancia Aérea), National Coast Guard Service (Servicio Nacional de Guardacostas), Drug Control Police (Policía Control de Drogas), Border Police (Policia de Fronteras), Professional Migration Police (Policía Profesional de Migración)
Ministry of Presidency: Directorate of Intelligence and Security (DIS), Special Intervention Unit (UEI) (2025)
Note: Costa Rica's armed forces were constitutionally abolished in 1949
Ministry of Presidency: Directorate of Intelligence and Security (DIS), Special Intervention Unit (UEI) (2025)
Note: Costa Rica's armed forces were constitutionally abolished in 1949
Military expenditures
0.6% of GDP (2024 est.)
0.6% of GDP (2023 est.)
0.6% of GDP (2022 est.)
0.7% of GDP (2021 est.)
0.7% of GDP (2020 est.)
0.6% of GDP (2023 est.)
0.6% of GDP (2022 est.)
0.7% of GDP (2021 est.)
0.7% of GDP (2020 est.)
Military - note
Costa Rica relies on specialized paramilitary units within the Ministry of Public Security (MPS) for internal security missions and countering transnational threats such as narcotics smuggling and organized crime, as well as for participating in regional security operations and exercises; MPS forces have received advisory and training support from the US (2025)
Military and security service personnel strengths
approximately 10-15,000 Ministry of Public Security personnel (2025)
Military equipment inventories and acquisitions
the National Police are lightly armed although small special units are trained and equipped for tactical operations; the US has provided equipment and support to forces such as the Coast Guard, including secondhand US vessels and aircraft (2025)
Illicit drugs
USG identification:
Major illicit drug-producing and/or drug-transit country
Major precursor-chemical producer (2025)
Major illicit drug-producing and/or drug-transit country
Major precursor-chemical producer (2025)
Refugees and internally displaced persons
Refugees: 249,521 (2024 est.)
IDPs: 58 (2024 est.)
Stateless persons: 345 (2024 est.)
IDPs: 58 (2024 est.)
Stateless persons: 345 (2024 est.)
Space program overview
has a small, recently established program focused on using space to develop the country’s economy and industry, including acquiring and using satellites; has built a remote sensing (RS) cube satellite; has relations with US space agencies and commercial space industries, as well as with the ESA and the Latin American and Caribbean Space Agency (2025)
Space agency/agencies
Costa Rican Space Agency (ACE; established by legislation in 2021) (2025)
Note: ACE is a non-state, public entity subject to guidelines issued by the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Telecommunications of Costa Rica
Note: ACE is a non-state, public entity subject to guidelines issued by the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Telecommunications of Costa Rica
Ports
Total ports: 6 (2024)
Large: 0
Medium: 0
Small: 1
Very small: 5
Ports with oil terminals: 4
Key ports: Golfito, Puerto Caldera, Puerto Limon, Puerto Moin, Puerto Quepos, Puntarenas
Large: 0
Medium: 0
Small: 1
Very small: 5
Ports with oil terminals: 4
Key ports: Golfito, Puerto Caldera, Puerto Limon, Puerto Moin, Puerto Quepos, Puntarenas
National coat of arms
the Costa Rican coat of arms highlights the country’s natural beauty and history; three volcanoes, each topped with a white cloud, are surrounded with water, symbolizing the seaports of the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans; the rising sun in the background stands for the birth of a new nation, and the seven white stars for the country's provinces; the two merchant ships carrying Costa Rica’s flag are a reminder of the maritime trade that shaped the country's history
Key space-program milestones
2018 - first domestically produced remote sensing cube satellite (Irazú) for monitoring tropical forests and climate change launched by US and deployed from the International Space Station
2021 - signed protocols for newly established Latin American and Caribbean Space Agency; opened US commercial company’s space radar facility for mapping and space situational awareness
2022 - domestically produced scientific device (Proyecto Musa or Musa Project) launched on European rocket
2024 - participated in first China-Latin America and the Caribbean Space Cooperation Forum
2021 - signed protocols for newly established Latin American and Caribbean Space Agency; opened US commercial company’s space radar facility for mapping and space situational awareness
2022 - domestically produced scientific device (Proyecto Musa or Musa Project) launched on European rocket
2024 - participated in first China-Latin America and the Caribbean Space Cooperation Forum
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income
45.8 (2024 est.)
note: index (0-100) of income distribution; higher values represent greater inequality
note: index (0-100) of income distribution; higher values represent greater inequality
Quick Facts
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