Costa Rica
Cost of Living in Tamarindo
Dry season (December-April) can command premium rental rates. Green season offers 20-30% discounts. Excellent dining options but higher food costs than Central Valley.
Monthly Total
$2,835
$49,613
Housing (1BR Mid-range)
$1,466
Daily Spend (ex. rent)
$46
Based on a typical expat lifestyle: 1BR furnished apartment, mix of cooking/eating out, rideshare transportation, moderate entertainment. Last updated: 1/14/2026.
Monthly Cost Breakdown
Housing (Rent)
1BR furnished apartment in mid-range neighborhood
$1,466
$25,655
Utilities
Electric, water, gas, and internet
$285
$4,988
Groceries
Groceries from supermarkets
$280
$4,900
Dining Out
Mix of casual restaurants, ~12 meals/month
$144
$2,520
Transportation
Rideshare (Uber/Didi), ~30 rides/month
$240
$4,200
Lifestyle & Entertainment
Entertainment, occasional cleaning service
$204
$3,570
Healthcare
Basic private health insurance
$150
$2,625
Phone & Subscriptions
Phone plan and streaming subscriptions
$65
$1,138
Monthly Total
$2,835
$49,613
Recommended PartnerDon't skip health insurance
Cost estimates are great for budgeting, but real coverage protects you when something goes wrong.
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Living in Tamarindo
Tamarindo is one of Costa Rica's more expensive beach destinations but offers the most amenities. AC is essential due to hot climate, significantly increasing utility costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
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