Costa Rica is often considered the most expensive country in Central America, but the cost of dining depends entirely on where you eat. In 2026, a meal at a "Soda" (a small, family-run local eatery) is incredibly affordable, typically costing between $6 and $10 for a casado (a large plate of rice, beans, salad, and protein). Conversely, tourist-heavy areas like Tamarindo or Manuel Antonio have prices comparable to major U.S. cities, with dinner entries ranging from $20 to $45. Drinks follow a similar pattern: a local Imperial beer is about $3 at a soda but can be $8 at a high-end resort. Tap water is safe to drink in most of the country, which can save you significant money on bottled water. To keep costs down, shop at "Ferias" (farmers markets) for fresh fruit and stick to local brands rather than imported American snacks, which carry high import taxes.