Costa Rica/Society

Society in Costa Rica

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

Explore Social Domains

Demographics

Coming Soon
Population
5.1M(2023)
Population Growth
0.5%(2023)
Fertility Rate
1.33(2023)
Death Rate
5.5 per 1k(2023)
Net Migration
+967(2024)

Public Health

Coming Soon
Life Expectancy
80.8 years(2023)
Under-5 Mortality
10.5 per 1k(2023)
Maternal Mortality
24 per 100k(2023)
Health Expenditure (as share of GDP)
7.2%(2022)

Education & Human Capital

Coming Soon
Literacy Rate
98%(2021)
Primary Enrollment
97.3%(2018)
Secondary Enrollment
133.2%(2022)
Tertiary Enrollment
54.7(2019)
Education Expenditure (as share of GDP)
6.2%(2021)

Living Standards & Connectivity

Coming Soon
Internet Users
85.4%(2023)
Access to Electricity
100%(2023)
Access to Basic Drinking Water
99.8%(2022)
Urban Population
4.2M(2023)
Rural Population
887.2K(2023)

Current Snapshot Overview

A summary of key social and demographic indicators for Costa Rica

  • Costa Rica has an estimated population of 5.1M
    2023
    , with a modest annual growth rate of 0.5%
    2023
    , suggesting a mature demographic transition with stable, but limitated, population increase. The critically low fertility rate of 1.3 births per woman
    2023
    presents severe demographic challenges, including accelerated population aging and contraction, impacting economic and social systems. Net immigration is relatively minor, impacting the population by approximately 967 individuals annually (or 0.2 per 1,000 inhabitants)
    2024
    .
  • Regarding public health, robust public health systems are evident in a strong life expectancy of 80.8 years
    2023
    , indicating effective healthcare delivery. Concurrently, maternal and child health indicators show solid progress, with child mortality (under 5 years) at 10.5 per 1,000 live births
    2023
    and maternal mortality at 24 per 100,000 live births
    2023
    , indicating improving but still developing services. These outcomes are supported by a moderate commitment to health system development, with 7.2% of GDP directed to healthcare expenditure
    2022
    .
  • The country boasts exceptional educational attainment with a near-universal adult literacy rate of 98%
    2021
    , establishing a robust foundation for a knowledge-based economy. Complementing this, the educational pipeline demonstrates high efficiency with 97% primary enrollment
    2018
    and 133% secondary participation
    2022
    , ensuring comprehensive skill development and a prepared workforce. This educational framework is supported by robust public investment, with 6.2% of GDP dedicated to education spending
    2021
    , underscoring a strong commitment to human capital development.
  • In terms of infrastructure and connectivity, as a highly urbanized society with 83% of the population residing in urban areas
    2023
    , the country benefits from concentrated economic activity, efficient service delivery, and innovation potential. Furthermore, infrastructure development shows strong progress with 100% electricity access
    2023
    and 85% internet penetration
    2023
    , supporting ongoing modernization efforts and enhancing quality of life.

Key Development Insights

Population Dynamics

Managing demographic trends is crucial for long-term economic planning and workforce stability.

Public Health System

Sustained, high investment in healthcare underpins the country's excellent life expectancy and human development outcomes.

Human Capital Formation

A highly educated populace positions the nation for success in the global knowledge economy. Keeping talent is a vital strength.

Infrastructure & Connectivity

A highly urbanized, digitally connected society creates a strong foundation for service-based industries and global market access.

More About This Country

Neighbors & Regional Peers

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.