It's easy to experience sticker shock when checking into eco-lodges and renting vehicles and booking tours in Costa Rica. Indeed, it is the most expensive country in Central America, thanks to a booming economy and well-developed tourist sector.

Costa Rica is generally considered the most expensive country in Central America, so it is not "cheap" in the same way that neighboring Nicaragua or Guatemala might be. In 2026, a mid-range traveler should budget at least $100 to $150 per day. The high cost is largely due to the country's successful focus on eco-tourism and sustainability; national park entrance fees, guided nature tours, and adventure activities like ziplining are priced similarly to U.S. standards. Dining out at a "Soda" (a small local eatery) can be affordable, with a "Casado" meal costing around $7 to $10, but tourist-facing restaurants and beach clubs can be quite pricey. Transportation is another significant expense; while public buses are cheap, they are slow, leading many tourists to opt for private shuttles or expensive 4x4 rentals. While you can visit on a budget by staying in hostels and cooking your own meals, Costa Rica is best viewed as a "value" destination rather than a "budget" one—you pay more for the high level of safety, infrastructure, and preserved biodiversity.