Knelstrom Intelligence · World Factbook
Costa Rica
Republic of Costa Rica
CapitalSan José
Population5,152,950
GDP$102.9bn
Area51,180 km²
RegionLatin America & Caribbean
Data sources current · last checked September 20, 2026 2:10 am
Country facts
Overview
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.
Reference: 1970, 1953, 1948, 1919Since 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.
Geography
Location
Central America, bordering both the Caribbean Sea and the North Pacific Ocean, between Nicaragua and Panama
Map references
Central America and the Caribbean
Area
total: 51,100 sq km
land: 51,060 sq km
water: 40 sq km
note: note: includes Isla del Coco
land: 51,060 sq km
water: 40 sq km
note: note: includes Isla del Coco
Area - comparative
slightly smaller than West Virginia
Land boundaries
total: 661 km
border countries: Nicaragua 313 km; Panama 348 km
border countries: Nicaragua 313 km; Panama 348 km
Coastline
1,290 km
Maritime claims
territorial sea: 12 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
continental shelf: 200 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
continental shelf: 200 nm
Climate
tropical and subtropical; dry season (December to April); rainy season (May to November); cooler in highlands
Terrain
coastal plains separated by rugged mountains including over 100 volcanic cones, of which several are major active volcanoes
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
Natural resources
hydropower
Land use
agricultural land: 33.1% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: arable land: arable land: 3.3% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent crops: permanent crops: 7.4% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent pasture: permanent pasture: 22.5% (2023 est.)
forest: 58.4% (2023 est.)
other: 8.4% (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023agricultural land: arable land: arable land: 3.3% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent crops: permanent crops: 7.4% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent pasture: permanent pasture: 22.5% (2023 est.)
forest: 58.4% (2023 est.)
other: 8.4% (2023 est.)
Irrigated land
1,015 sq km (2012)
Reference: 2012Population 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
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
Reference: 1968, 1965, 1963volcanism: 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
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
Reference: 1963Population & Society
Nationality
noun: Costa Rican(s)
adjective: Costa Rican
adjective: Costa Rican
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.)
Reference: 2011Languages
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.
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.)
Reference: 2021Age 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)
Reference: 202415-64 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)
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.)
Reference: 2024youth dependency ratio: 26.8 (2024 est.)
elderly dependency ratio: 15.8 (2024 est.)
potential support ratio: 6.3 (2024 est.)
Median age
total: 35.5 years (2024 est.)
male: 34.9 years
female: 36.1 years
Reference: 2024male: 34.9 years
female: 36.1 years
Population growth rate
0.74% (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024Birth rate
10.8 births/1,000 population (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024Death rate
5.3 deaths/1,000 population (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024Population 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
Major urban areas - population
1.462 million SAN JOSE (capital) (2023)
Reference: 2023Sex 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.)
Reference: 20240-14 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.)
Maternal mortality ratio
24 deaths/100,000 live births (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023Gross reproduction rate
0.7 (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024Drinking water source
improved: urban: urban: 99.8% of population (2022 est.)
improved: rural: rural: 99.6% of population (2022 est.)
improved: total: total: 99.8% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: urban: urban: 0.2% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: rural: rural: 0.4% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: total: total: 0.2% of population (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022improved: rural: rural: 99.6% of population (2022 est.)
improved: total: total: 99.8% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: urban: urban: 0.2% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: rural: rural: 0.4% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: total: total: 0.2% of population (2022 est.)
Health expenditure
Health expenditure (as % of GDP): 7.6% of GDP (2021)
Health expenditure (as % of national budget): 25.8% of national budget (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022, 2021Health expenditure (as % of national budget): 25.8% of national budget (2022 est.)
Physician density
2.69 physicians/1,000 population (2022)
Reference: 2022Hospital bed density
1.2 beds/1,000 population (2021 est.)
Reference: 2021Sanitation facility access
improved: urban: urban: 99.2% of population (2022 est.)
improved: rural: rural: 97.6% of population (2022 est.)
improved: total: total: 98.9% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: urban: urban: 0.8% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: rural: rural: 2.4% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: total: total: 1.1% of population (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022improved: rural: rural: 97.6% of population (2022 est.)
improved: total: total: 98.9% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: urban: urban: 0.8% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: rural: rural: 2.4% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: total: total: 1.1% of population (2022 est.)
Obesity - adult prevalence rate
25.7% (2016)
Reference: 2016Alcohol 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.)
Reference: 2019beer: 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.)
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.)
Children under the age of 5 years underweight
2.9% (2018 est.)
Reference: 2018Currently married women (ages 15-49)
48.4% (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023Child marriage
women married by age 15: 2% (2018)
women married by age 18: 17.1% (2018)
Reference: 2018women married by age 18: 17.1% (2018)
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education)
total: 16 years (2019 est.)
male: 15 years (2019 est.)
female: 16 years (2019 est.)
Reference: 2019male: 15 years (2019 est.)
female: 16 years (2019 est.)
Migration & Displacement
Immigrant/emigrant stock measures the number of international migrants resident in, or originating from, the country; it is not the same as annual immigration/emigration flows.
Refugees and internally displaced persons
refugees: 249,521 (2024 est.)
IDPs: 58 (2024 est.)
stateless persons: 345 (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024IDPs: 58 (2024 est.)
stateless persons: 345 (2024 est.)
Government & Politics
| Office | Holder | Affiliation | From | Status | Evidence |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Head of state | Laura Fernández Delgado | — | 2026-05-08 | Current | Reported |
| Head of government | Laura Fernández Delgado | — | 2026-05-08 | Current | Reported |
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
Government type
presidential republic
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
Administrative divisions
7 provinces (provincias, singular - provincia); Alajuela, Cartago, Guanacaste, Heredia, Limon, Puntarenas, San Jose
Legal system
civil law system based on Spanish civil code; Supreme Court reviews legislative acts
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
Reference: 1949amendment 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
International law organization participation
accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction; accepts ICCt jurisdiction
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
Suffrage
18 years of age; universal and compulsory
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: February 2026 (a runoff, if needed, will take place in April 2026)
note: note: the president is both chief of state and head of government
Reference: 2026, 2022, 2018head 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: February 2026 (a runoff, if needed, will take place in April 2026)
note: note: the president is both chief of state and head of government
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
Reference: 2026, 2022legislative 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
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
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
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
Reference: 2023chancery: 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
Diplomatic representation from the US
chief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); 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/
Reference: 2025, 2000embassy: 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/
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
Independence
15 September 1821 (from Spain)
National holiday
Independence Day, 15 September (1821)
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: 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: note: somewhat resembles the flag of North Korea; similar to the flag of Thailand, but with the blue and red colors reversed
National symbol(s)
yiguirro (clay-colored thrush)
National color(s)
blue, white, red
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
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
Reference: 1949, 1900lyrics/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
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)
Government & Official Links
| Institution | Official website | X / Twitter | Verification |
|---|---|---|---|
| Costa Rica official website | Official website | — | Reported · source Checked September 20, 2026 |
Institutional accounts only; personal accounts of political office-holders are excluded.
Legislature & Elections
Legislature
| Name | Chamber | Seats | Electoral system |
|---|---|---|---|
| Legislative Assembly of Costa Rica | — | 57 | — |
Economy
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
Real GDP (purchasing power parity)
Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2024: $138.371 billion (2024 est.)
Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2023: $132.64 billion (2023 est.)
Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2022: $126.189 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: data in 2021 dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2023: $132.64 billion (2023 est.)
Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2022: $126.189 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: data in 2021 dollars
Real GDP per capita
Real GDP per capita 2024: $27,000 (2024 est.)
Real GDP per capita 2023: $26,000 (2023 est.)
Real GDP per capita 2022: $24,800 (2022 est.)
note: note: data in 2021 dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021Real GDP per capita 2023: $26,000 (2023 est.)
Real GDP per capita 2022: $24,800 (2022 est.)
note: note: data in 2021 dollars
GDP - composition, by sector of origin
agriculture: 3.6% (2024 est.)
industry: 19.7% (2024 est.)
services: 68.8% (2024 est.)
note: note: figures may not total 100% due to non-allocated consumption not captured in sector-reported data
Reference: 2024industry: 19.7% (2024 est.)
services: 68.8% (2024 est.)
note: note: figures may not total 100% due to non-allocated consumption not captured in sector-reported data
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: note: figures may not total 100% due to rounding or gaps in data collection
Reference: 2024government 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: note: figures may not total 100% due to rounding or gaps in data collection
Agricultural products
sugarcane, pineapples, bananas, oil palm fruit, milk, fruits, oranges, chicken, cassava, beef (2023)
note: note: top ten agricultural products based on tonnage
Reference: 2023note: note: top ten agricultural products based on tonnage
Industries
medical equipment, food processing, textiles and clothing, construction materials, fertilizer, plastic products
Industrial production growth rate
4.1% (2024 est.)
note: note: annual % change in industrial value added based on constant local currency
Reference: 2024note: note: annual % change in industrial value added based on constant local currency
Labor force
2.357 million (2024 est.)
note: note: number of people ages 15 or older who are employed or seeking work
Reference: 2024note: note: number of people ages 15 or older who are employed or seeking work
Youth unemployment rate (ages 15-24)
total: 23% (2024 est.)
male: 20.7% (2024 est.)
female: 26.2% (2024 est.)
note: note: % of labor force ages 15-24 seeking employment
Reference: 2024male: 20.7% (2024 est.)
female: 26.2% (2024 est.)
note: note: % of labor force ages 15-24 seeking employment
Population below poverty line
24.4% (2023 est.)
note: note: % of population with income below national poverty line
Reference: 2023note: note: % of population with income below national poverty line
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income 2024: 45.8 (2024 est.)
note: note: index (0-100) of income distribution; higher values represent greater inequality
Reference: 2024note: note: index (0-100) of income distribution; higher values represent greater inequality
Average household expenditures
on food: 21.3% of household expenditures (2023 est.)
on alcohol and tobacco: 1.7% of household expenditures (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023on alcohol and tobacco: 1.7% of household expenditures (2023 est.)
Household income or consumption by percentage share
lowest 10%: 1.7% (2024 est.)
highest 10%: 34.2% (2024 est.)
note: note: % share of income accruing to lowest and highest 10% of population
Reference: 2024highest 10%: 34.2% (2024 est.)
note: note: % share of income accruing to lowest and highest 10% of population
Remittances
Remittances 2024: 0.8% of GDP (2024 est.)
Remittances 2023: 0.8% of GDP (2023 est.)
Remittances 2022: 0.9% of GDP (2022 est.)
note: note: personal transfers and compensation between resident and non-resident individuals/households/entities
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Remittances 2023: 0.8% of GDP (2023 est.)
Remittances 2022: 0.9% of GDP (2022 est.)
note: note: personal transfers and compensation between resident and non-resident individuals/households/entities
Budget
revenues: $26.333 billion (2023 est.)
expenditures: $25.953 billion (2023 est.)
note: note: central government revenues (excluding grants) and expenditures converted to US dollars at average official exchange rate for year indicated
Reference: 2023expenditures: $25.953 billion (2023 est.)
note: note: central government revenues (excluding grants) and expenditures converted to US dollars at average official exchange rate for year indicated
Public debt
Public debt 2017: 48.9% of GDP (2017 est.)
Reference: 2017Taxes and other revenues
13.9% (of GDP) (2023 est.)
note: note: central government tax revenue as a % of GDP
Reference: 2023note: note: central government tax revenue as a % of GDP
Current account balance
Current account balance 2024: -$1.291 billion (2024 est.)
Current account balance 2023: -$1.239 billion (2023 est.)
Current account balance 2022: -$2.272 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Current account balance 2023: -$1.239 billion (2023 est.)
Current account balance 2022: -$2.272 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
Exports
Exports 2024: $36.77 billion (2024 est.)
Exports 2023: $33.683 billion (2023 est.)
Exports 2022: $29.392 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Exports 2023: $33.683 billion (2023 est.)
Exports 2022: $29.392 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
Exports - partners
USA 40%, Netherlands 6%, China 5%, Guatemala 4%, Belgium 3% (2023)
note: note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
Reference: 2023note: note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
Exports - commodities
medical instruments, integrated circuits, orthopedic appliances, bananas, tropical fruits (2023)
note: note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
Reference: 2023note: note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
Imports
Imports 2024: $30.459 billion (2024 est.)
Imports 2023: $28.413 billion (2023 est.)
Imports 2022: $27.095 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Imports 2023: $28.413 billion (2023 est.)
Imports 2022: $27.095 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
Imports - partners
USA 38%, China 15%, Mexico 6%, Brazil 3%, Guatemala 3% (2023)
note: note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
Reference: 2023note: note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
Imports - commodities
refined petroleum, plastic products, cars, medical instruments, broadcasting equipment (2023)
note: note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
Reference: 2023note: note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2024: $14.177 billion (2024 est.)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2023: $13.225 billion (2023 est.)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2022: $8.554 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: holdings of gold (year-end prices)/foreign exchange/special drawing rights in current dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2023: $13.225 billion (2023 est.)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2022: $8.554 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: holdings of gold (year-end prices)/foreign exchange/special drawing rights in current dollars
Debt - external
Debt - external 2023: $15.574 billion (2023 est.)
note: note: present value of external debt in current US dollars
Reference: 2023note: note: present value of external debt in current US dollars
Exchange rates
Currency: Costa Rican colones (CRC) per US dollar -
Exchange rates 2024: 515.11 (2024 est.)
Exchange rates 2023: 544.051 (2023 est.)
Exchange rates 2022: 647.136 (2022 est.)
Exchange rates 2021: 620.785 (2021 est.)
Exchange rates 2020: 584.901 (2020 est.)
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021Exchange rates 2024: 515.11 (2024 est.)
Exchange rates 2023: 544.051 (2023 est.)
Exchange rates 2022: 647.136 (2022 est.)
Exchange rates 2021: 620.785 (2021 est.)
Exchange rates 2020: 584.901 (2020 est.)
Trade
Current account balance
Current account balance 2024: -$1.291 billion (2024 est.)
Current account balance 2023: -$1.239 billion (2023 est.)
Current account balance 2022: -$2.272 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Current account balance 2023: -$1.239 billion (2023 est.)
Current account balance 2022: -$2.272 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
Exports
Exports 2024: $36.77 billion (2024 est.)
Exports 2023: $33.683 billion (2023 est.)
Exports 2022: $29.392 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Exports 2023: $33.683 billion (2023 est.)
Exports 2022: $29.392 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
Exports - partners
USA 40%, Netherlands 6%, China 5%, Guatemala 4%, Belgium 3% (2023)
note: note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
Reference: 2023note: note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
Exports - commodities
medical instruments, integrated circuits, orthopedic appliances, bananas, tropical fruits (2023)
note: note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
Reference: 2023note: note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
Imports
Imports 2024: $30.459 billion (2024 est.)
Imports 2023: $28.413 billion (2023 est.)
Imports 2022: $27.095 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Imports 2023: $28.413 billion (2023 est.)
Imports 2022: $27.095 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
Imports - partners
USA 38%, China 15%, Mexico 6%, Brazil 3%, Guatemala 3% (2023)
note: note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
Reference: 2023note: note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
Imports - commodities
refined petroleum, plastic products, cars, medical instruments, broadcasting equipment (2023)
note: note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
Reference: 2023note: note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
Energy & Resources
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.)
Reference: 2023consumption: 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.)
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.)
Reference: 2023solar: 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.)
Coal
consumption: 23,000 metric tons (2023 est.)
imports: 24,000 metric tons (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023imports: 24,000 metric tons (2023 est.)
Petroleum
total petroleum production: 400 bbl/day (2023 est.)
refined petroleum consumption: 60,000 bbl/day (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023refined petroleum consumption: 60,000 bbl/day (2023 est.)
Energy consumption per capita
Total energy consumption per capita 2023: 30.725 million Btu/person (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023Infrastructure
Telephones - fixed lines
total subscriptions: 678,000 (2023 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 13 (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 13 (2023 est.)
Health
Maternal mortality ratio
24 deaths/100,000 live births (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023Health expenditure
Health expenditure (as % of GDP): 7.6% of GDP (2021)
Health expenditure (as % of national budget): 25.8% of national budget (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022, 2021Health expenditure (as % of national budget): 25.8% of national budget (2022 est.)
Physician density
2.69 physicians/1,000 population (2022)
Reference: 2022Hospital bed density
1.2 beds/1,000 population (2021 est.)
Reference: 2021Obesity - adult prevalence rate
25.7% (2016)
Reference: 2016Tobacco 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.)
Education
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education)
total: 16 years (2019 est.)
male: 15 years (2019 est.)
female: 16 years (2019 est.)
Reference: 2019male: 15 years (2019 est.)
female: 16 years (2019 est.)
Rights, Freedoms & Society
Press & Media Freedom
V-Dem expert-coded/modelled source measures. Knelstrom does not create a press-freedom ranking or composite score.
LGBTQ+ Rights & Law
Concrete legal-status fields only; Knelstrom does not generate an LGBTQ rights score or country ranking.
Source: Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory (CC BY-SA 4.0). Community-edited legal-status summary; retrieved by Knelstrom and not legal advice.
Crime & Justice
Legal system
civil law system based on Spanish civil code; Supreme Court reviews legislative acts
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
Military & Security
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: note: Costa Rica's armed forces were constitutionally abolished in 1949
Reference: 2025, 1949Ministry of Presidency: Directorate of Intelligence and Security (DIS), Special Intervention Unit (UEI) (2025)
note: note: Costa Rica's armed forces were constitutionally abolished in 1949
Military expenditures
Military Expenditures 2024: 0.6% of GDP (2024 est.)
Military Expenditures 2023: 0.6% of GDP (2023 est.)
Military Expenditures 2022: 0.6% of GDP (2022 est.)
Military Expenditures 2021: 0.7% of GDP (2021 est.)
Military Expenditures 2020: 0.7% of GDP (2020 est.)
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021Military Expenditures 2023: 0.6% of GDP (2023 est.)
Military Expenditures 2022: 0.6% of GDP (2022 est.)
Military Expenditures 2021: 0.7% of GDP (2021 est.)
Military Expenditures 2020: 0.7% of GDP (2020 est.)
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 the Coast Guard, including secondhand US vessels and aircraft (2024)
Reference: 2024Military - 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)
International Relations
International law organization participation
accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction; accepts ICCt jurisdiction
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
Reference: 2023chancery: 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
Diplomatic representation from the US
chief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); 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/
Reference: 2025, 2000embassy: 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/
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
Treaties & Organisations
| Organisation | Status | Joined |
|---|---|---|
| OECD (OECD) | member | 2021-05-00 |
| United Nations (UN) | member | 1945-11-02 |
| World Trade Organization (WTO) | member | — |
International law organization participation
accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction; accepts ICCt jurisdiction
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
Conflict & Security
Refugees and internally displaced persons
refugees: 249,521 (2024 est.)
IDPs: 58 (2024 est.)
stateless persons: 345 (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024IDPs: 58 (2024 est.)
stateless persons: 345 (2024 est.)
Illicit drugs
USG identification: major illicit drug-producing and/or drug-transit country
major precursor-chemical producer (2025)
major precursor-chemical producer (2025)
Transportation & Logistics
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix
TI
Airports
132 (2025)
Heliports
8 (2025)
Railways
total: 278 km (2014)
narrow gauge: 278 km (2014) 1.067-m gauge
note: 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
Reference: 2014, 2005narrow gauge: 278 km (2014) 1.067-m gauge
note: 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
Merchant marine
total: 11 (2023)
by type: other 11
Reference: 2023by type: other 11
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
Reference: 2024large: 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
Environment
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
Reference: 2006signed, but not ratified: Marine Life Conservation
Climate
tropical and subtropical; dry season (December to April); rainy season (May to November); cooler in highlands
Land use
agricultural land: 33.1% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: arable land: arable land: 3.3% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent crops: permanent crops: 7.4% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent pasture: permanent pasture: 22.5% (2023 est.)
forest: 58.4% (2023 est.)
other: 8.4% (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023agricultural land: arable land: arable land: 3.3% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent crops: permanent crops: 7.4% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent pasture: permanent pasture: 22.5% (2023 est.)
forest: 58.4% (2023 est.)
other: 8.4% (2023 est.)
Urbanization
urban population: 82.6% of total population (2023)
rate of urbanization: 1.5% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Reference: 2023, 2020rate of urbanization: 1.5% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
Carbon dioxide emissions
total 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.)
Reference: 2023from 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.)
Particulate matter emissions
15.1 micrograms per cubic meter (2019 est.)
Reference: 2019Waste and recycling
municipal solid waste generated annually: 1.46 million tons (2024 est.)
percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 5.4% (2022 est.)
Reference: 2024, 2022percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 5.4% (2022 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.)
Reference: 2022industrial: 245.34 million cubic meters (2022 est.)
agricultural: 2.093 billion cubic meters (2022 est.)
Total renewable water resources
113 billion cubic meters (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022Communications & Media
Telephones - fixed lines
total subscriptions: 678,000 (2023 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 13 (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 13 (2023 est.)
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)
Reference: 2022Internet country code
.cr
Historical Trends
Population
Source: World Bank WDI. Historical observations shown by reference period.
View Population data table
| Period | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 4,866,998 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2017 | 4,913,177 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2018 | 4,957,818 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2019 | 4,999,553 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2020 | 5,034,320 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2021 | 5,059,988 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2022 | 5,081,765 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2023 | 5,105,525 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2024 | 5,129,910 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2025 | 5,152,950 | world_bank_wdi |
GDP (current US$)
Source: World Bank WDI. Historical observations shown by reference period.
View GDP (current US$) data table
| Period | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | $58,847,019,588 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2017 | $60,516,044,661 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2018 | $62,567,765,946 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2019 | $64,753,504,730 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2020 | $62,806,591,555 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2021 | $65,588,938,787 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2022 | $71,001,226,361 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2023 | $87,512,637,056 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2024 | $96,715,644,331 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2025 | $102,904,921,157 | world_bank_wdi |
International migrant stock (immigrants)
Source: World Bank WDI. Historical observations shown by reference period.
View International migrant stock (immigrants) data table
| Period | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 520,729 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2024 | 628,404 | world_bank_wdi |
International emigrant stock
Source: World Bank WDI. Historical observations shown by reference period.
View International emigrant stock data table
| Period | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 1990 | 22,922 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 1995 | 22,763 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2000 | 26,493 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2005 | 30,258 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2010 | 34,241 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2015 | 39,023 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2020 | 43,504 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2024 | 50,982 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
Net migration
Source: World Bank WDI. Historical observations shown by reference period.
View Net migration data table
| Period | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 1,649 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2017 | 1,671 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2018 | 1,673 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2019 | 1,653 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2020 | 1,029 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2021 | 1,018 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2022 | 1,006 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2023 | 995 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2024 | 967 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2025 | 1,000 | world_bank_wdi |
Sources & Methodology
Current statistical observations include their reference period and provenance. Reference fields from approved source datasets are attributed below. Missing information is left unknown rather than inferred.
| Indicator | Value | Period | Source | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 5,152,950 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| UN Population Division population estimate | 5,174,789 | 2026 | UN Population Division Data Portal | Estimated |
| Wikidata population (fallback) | 5,265,575 | 2024 | Wikidata | Reported |
| International migrant stock (immigrants) | 628,404 | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| International migrant stock | 12.2% | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| International emigrant stock | 50,982 | 2024 | UN DESA International Migrant Stock 2024 | Estimated |
| Net migration | 1,000 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Refugees from this country | 367 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Asylum seekers from this country | 1,820 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Freedom of expression & alternative information index | 0.915 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Government censorship effort — media | 0.934 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Harassment of journalists | 1.773 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Print/broadcast media critical of government | 2.298 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Range of perspectives in major media | 2.201 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Media bias | 2.296 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Media self-censorship | 1.040 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Same-sex sexual activity | Yes Legal since 1971; + UN decl. sign. | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Recognition of same-sex relationships | Yes Unregistered cohabitation since 2014 | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Same-sex marriage | Yes Legal since 2020 | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Same-sex adoption | Yes Legal since 2020 | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Open military service | Has no military | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Sexual-orientation anti-discrimination law | Yes Bans all anti-gay discrimination | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Gender identity / expression law | Yes / No Transgender persons can change their legal name without surgeries or judicial permission since 2018. Legal gender cannot be changed. Sex indicator removed from all ID cards issued since May 2018 One-time sex change allowed for passports. | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| GDP (current US$) | $102,904,921,157 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| GDP per capita (current US$) | $19,970 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| GDP growth | 4.6% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Inflation, consumer prices | -0.1% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Unemployment | 6.8% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Income level | High income | current | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Life expectancy at birth | 81.0 years | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Fertility rate | 1.3 | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Urban population | 79.7% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Individuals using the Internet | 87.2% | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Exports of goods and services | 38.8% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Imports of goods and services | 32.6% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Trade | 71.5% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Adult literacy rate | 97.4% | 2011 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Secondary school enrolment, gross | 121.8% | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Government education expenditure | 5.3% | 2023 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Access to electricity | 99.8% | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Electric power consumption | 2,282 kWh/person | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Renewable energy consumption | 34.2% | 2021 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Current health expenditure | 6.9% | 2023 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Infant mortality rate | 9.1 per 1,000 | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Forest area | 60.4% | 2023 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Mobile cellular subscriptions | 136.0 per 100 | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Fixed broadband subscriptions | 23.3 per 100 | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Secure Internet servers | 2,000 per million | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Latitude | 9.6370° | current | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Longitude | -84.0089° | current | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Latitude (Wikidata) | 10.0000° | current | Wikidata | Reported |
| Longitude (Wikidata) | -84.0000° | current | Wikidata | Reported |
| Time zone | UTC−06:00, America/Costa_Rica | current | Wikidata | Reported |
Data attribution
Credits below are generated from sources actually used by this country profile. Source-specific terms take precedence.
- CIA World Factbook, final 2025 country profile (structured via factbook.json). Accessed September 20, 2026. U.S. Government public-domain data; retained as a reference source where a newer approved field is not available. Source · Terms/licence
- United Nations, Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Population Division, International Migrant Stock 2024; data access/processing via Our World in Data. Accessed September 20, 2026. Underlying UN dataset used under CC BY 3.0 IGO. Source · Terms/licence
- United Nations, Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Population Division, World Population Prospects (WPP indicator 49) Accessed September 19, 2026. Used under CC BY 3.0 IGO; current-year WPP population values are presented as estimates/projections where applicable. Source · Terms/licence
- Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem), Country-Year Dataset v16 (variables: v2mebias, v2mecenefm, v2mecrit, v2meharjrn, v2merange, v2meslfcen, v2x_freexp_altinf) Accessed September 20, 2026. Used under CC BY-SA 4.0; V-Dem measures are expert-coded/modelled and no V-Dem endorsement is implied. Source · Terms/licence
- Wikidata structured data (CC0). Accessed September 20, 2026. Attribution is provided by Knelstrom for provenance although CC0 does not require it. Source · Terms/licence
- Wikipedia, “LGBTQ rights by country or territory” (source revision/data fields: Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Gender identity / expression law, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Open military service, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Recognition of same-sex relationships, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Same-sex adoption, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Same-sex marriage, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Same-sex sexual activity, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Sexual-orientation anti-discrimination law) Accessed September 20, 2026. Used under CC BY-SA 4.0. Knelstrom changes formatting and presents the imported material as a community-edited legal-status summary, not legal advice or a Knelstrom rights score. Source · Terms/licence
- World Bank, World Development Indicators (series: AG.LND.FRST.ZS, country_metadata, EG.ELC.ACCS.ZS, EG.FEC.RNEW.ZS, EG.USE.ELEC.KH.PC, FP.CPI.TOTL.ZG, IT.CEL.SETS.P2, IT.NET.BBND.P2, IT.NET.SECR.P6, IT.NET.USER.ZS, NE.EXP.GNFS.ZS, NE.IMP.GNFS.ZS, NE.TRD.GNFS.ZS, NY.GDP.MKTP.CD, NY.GDP.MKTP.KD.ZG, NY.GDP.PCAP.CD, SE.ADT.LITR.ZS, SE.SEC.ENRR, SE.XPD.TOTL.GD.ZS, SH.XPD.CHEX.GD.ZS, SL.UEM.TOTL.ZS, SM.POP.ASYS.EO, SM.POP.NETM, SM.POP.RHCR.EO, SM.POP.TOTL, SM.POP.TOTL.ZS, SP.DYN.IMRT.IN, SP.DYN.LE00.IN, SP.DYN.TFRT.IN, SP.POP.TOTL, SP.URB.TOTL.IN.ZS) Accessed September 20, 2026. Data used under CC BY 4.0; Knelstrom presentation/formatting may differ from the source. Source · Terms/licence
Knelstrom does not imply endorsement by any listed data provider.
Last automated statistical refresh: 2026-09-20 02:05:13