Economy of Costa Rica

An overview of key economic indicators. Select a category for detailed trends, charts, and insights.

Explore Economic Domains

Growth & Output

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GDP (USD)
$86.5B(2023)
GDP PPP (USD)
$143.3B(2023)
GDP per Capita (USD)
$16,942(2023)
GDP Growth (inflation-adjusted)
5.1%(2023)
Inflation (CPI Annual %)
-0.4%(2024)

Trade & Finance

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Exports (as share of GDP)
38.9%(2023)
Imports (as share of GDP)
33.6%(2023)
FDI Inflows (as share of GDP)
5.4%(2023)
Remittance Inflow (USD)
$662.1M(2023)
Tax Revenue (as share of GDP)
13.9%(2023)

Labor & Income

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Unemployment Rate
7.8%(2024)
Employment in Services
66.4%(2023)
Poverty Rate
24.4%(2023)
GINI Index
45.8(2024)
GNI per Capita (USD)
$14,260(2023)

Energy & Environment

Coming Soon
Energy Use per Capita
967 kg oil eq.(2023)
Renewable Energy Consumption (%)
34.2%(2021)

Economic Snapshot Overview

A summary of key economic indicators for Costa Rica

  • The economic architecture of Costa Rica is substantial, anchored by a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of approximately $86.5B
    2023
    . This places it as the 70th largest economy out of 191 countries measured, underscoring its significance on the world stage. On a per capita basis, GDP stands at $16.94K
    2023
    , while its GDP in Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) terms is estimated at $143.34B, reflecting the population's domestic purchasing power. The economy is experiencing robust expansion, with a high growth rate of 5.1%
    2023
    , accompanied by stable price levels, with inflation (CPI) at -0.4%
    2024
    .
  • On the global stage, the nation's trade and financial dynamics reveal a complex interplay of factors. The country maintains a strong trade surplus, with exports representing 38.9% of GDP and imports 33.6%
    2023
    . Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) inflows are significant, constituting 5.42% of the economy
    2023
    . This performance positions the country 36th globally out of 186 nations, indicating its relative attractiveness to foreign capital. Additionally, personal remittances received amount to a substantial $662.1M annually
    2023
    , highlighting the economic importance of its diaspora. The government faces fiscal constraints, with tax revenue representing only 13.9% of GDP
    2023
    .
  • The socio-economic landscape is characterized by a Gross National Income (GNI) per capita of $14,260
    2023
    . Globally, this ranks the nation 59th out of 190 in terms of GNI per capita, providing a clear measure of its national wealth relative to others. The labor market is stable, with unemployment at 7.8%
    2024
    . The services sector is a primary driver of the labor market, accounting for 66.4% of total employment
    2023
    . Poverty remains a key issue, with 24.4% of the population living below the national poverty line
    2023
    . There is a moderate level of income inequality, with a Gini index of 45.8
    2024
    .
  • On the environment and energy front, energy consumption per capita is 966.971 kg of oil equivalent
    2023
    . The country is a leader in clean energy, with renewable sources making up 34.2% of total final energy consumption
    2021
    . Its commitment to clean energy places it 119th among 190 countries for its share of renewable energy consumption.

Key Economic Insights

Macroeconomic Health

Maintaining a balance between growth, inflation, and employment is the central challenge for economic policymakers.

Trade & Investment Profile

The degree of openness to trade and foreign investment is a major determinant of economic structure and resilience.

Social Equity & Distribution

Distributing the benefits of economic growth equitably is crucial for social cohesion and long-term stability.

Energy & Sustainability

Transitioning to a sustainable energy model is critical for mitigating climate risk and ensuring long-term energy security.

More About This Country

Note: The information on this page has been compiled from authoritative sources. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, please note that some figures may not be current or entirely precise.