Country Profile: Costa Rica

Costa Rica, located in Central America, is bordered by the Caribbean Sea to the east and the North Pacific Ocean to the west, sharing land borders with Nicaragua and Panama. Its tropical and subtropical climate supports a rich biodiversity, while the nation has undergone significant economic transformation from a predominantly agricultural base to a robust technology and tourism sector. With a population of approximately 5.3 million, Costa Rica prides itself on a long-standing democratic governance system, characterized by a commitment to social equity and environmental sustainability.

Geography

Costa Rica covers an area of 51,100 square kilometers, featuring a diverse terrain that includes coastal plains, rugged mountains, and over 100 volcanic cones. The climate is tropical with distinct wet and dry seasons, contributing to its rich natural resources, including significant hydropower potential. The country is prone to natural hazards such as earthquakes and active volcanoes.

1,290 km of coastline along both the Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean.
661 km of land borders, with Nicaragua to the north and Panama to the south.
58.4% of land classified as forest (2023).

People and Society

Costa Rica's estimated population is around 5.3 million, primarily composed of a diverse ethnic mix including White or Mestizo (83.6%) and Indigenous peoples (2.4%). Spanish is the official language, and the country is known for its high literacy rates and universal healthcare system. Approximately 82.6% of the population lives in urban areas, with San José being the largest city.

80.3 years is the average life expectancy (2024).
10.86 births/1,000 population represents the birth rate (2025).
0.75% is the projected population growth rate (2025).

Economy

Costa Rica operates a trade-based upper middle-income economy, recognized as a leader in green initiatives and tourism. The country has significantly reduced deforestation and focuses on sustainable practices. However, it faces challenges such as income inequality and a recent liquidity crisis exacerbated by COVID-19.

$138.371 billion is the estimated Real GDP (PPP) for 2024.
68.8% of GDP is attributed to the services sector (2024).
7.9% unemployment rate projected for 2024.

Government

Costa Rica is a presidential republic with a history of stable democratic governance. The capital city is San José, and citizens participate in universal suffrage starting at age 18. The current president is Rodrigo Chaves Robles, having taken office in May 2022.

7 provinces make up the administrative divisions.
57-member unicameral Legislative Assembly.
15 September 1821 marks the date of independence from Spain.

Military and Security

Costa Rica abolished its armed forces in 1949, relying on the Ministry of Public Security for national defense and law enforcement. The country employs various paramilitary units to address internal security issues, with a focus on combating drug trafficking and organized crime.

0.6% of GDP is allocated to military expenditures (2024).
10,000-15,000 personnel are involved in public security forces (2025).

Energy

Costa Rica has achieved 100% electricity access for its population, relying heavily on renewable sources such as hydropower, which constitutes nearly 73% of its installed capacity. The country is actively investing in sustainable energy projects.

3.751 million kW is the installed generating capacity (2023).
9.957 billion kWh is the total electricity consumption (2023).
72.9% of electricity generation comes from hydroelectric sources (2023).

Environment

The country faces environmental issues such as deforestation, soil erosion, and coastal marine pollution. Nevertheless, it is also recognized for its commitment to preserving biodiversity and participating in numerous international environmental agreements.

58.4% of total land is forested (2023).
1.46 million tons of municipal solid waste generated annually (2024).
7.91 million metric tonnes of CO2 emissions reported in 2023.

Transportation

Costa Rica has a varied transportation network that includes highways, railways, and airports. The infrastructure is essential for connecting its urban centers and facilitating trade.

132 airports are available as of 2025.
278 km of railway line, primarily narrow gauge (2014).
6 major ports, including Puerto Limon and Golfito, are operational.

Communications

The country benefits from a well-developed communication infrastructure, with high mobile cellular penetration and significant internet usage among the population.

85% of the population are internet users (2023).
6.98 million mobile cellular subscriptions as of 2024.
1.15 million fixed broadband subscriptions available (2023).

Key Metrics

Metric	Value	Note
Population	5,304,932 (2025 est.)
Area	51,100 sq km
GDP (PPP)	$138.371 billion	2024 estimate
Unemployment Rate	7.9%	2024 estimate
Birth Rate	10.86 births/1,000	2025 estimate
Life Expectancy	80.3 years	2024 estimate
Electricity Access	100%	2022 estimate