Regional average Price ranges in Costa Rica
Central and South Pacific
Kathleen's farms are located in this region. Cities include Dominical, Jaco, Manual Antonio, Uvita.
Rainforests, mangrove swamps, and rich farmlands are characteristic of this area. Median listing price is $1.1 million USD. Rentals range from $800-$1,500/mo
Central Valley
The Central Valley is the high plateau area around the capital city of San Jose. It includes high-end Expat areas like Escazu, as well as Heredia and Alajuela. The top 3 hospitals are in this area. Median prices are about $610,000. A 1-bedroom can be rented for about $600-$800/mo
Guanacaste and the Nicoya Penninsula
This region NE of San Jose is known for having dry tropical forests, and sometimes sever water shortages. However, there are many luxury beach areas dominated by high-end high rises on the beach and white sand such as in Tamarindo.
Real estate here is the highest in the country, with median listing prices being $1.1 Million US $. Rentals range from $800-$1500 /mo.
Caribbean Coast
Consisting of such towns as Limon, Puetro Viejo, Cahuita on the eastern side of the country. It is an Afro-Caribbean culture with budget-friendly options, but vastly less popular than the Pacific coast. There is more off a year round rainy season rather than the more distinctive "dry" seasons on the Pacific Coast which are punctuated by the "rainy" season from about Mid Oct. to the end of November. Listings here fall in the $100K to $350K range. I don't know what the rental costs are, but they will for sure be some of the lowest in the country.
Good news about Prices
It IS possible to find inland parcels of deeded land-only parcels or small lots for under $200,000. However, these typically do not have ocean views, and many have access issues. Buyers must be very careful because there is no licensing requirement to sell property in this country. Full time, professional and qualified agents get paid by the seller. There are specific due-diligence steps every buyer should take. Closing costs are typically split between buyer & seller. With a trusted agent and your own attorney, so there is really no downside to choosing one to help represent your interests.
Southern Zone pricing under $200,000
I'm most familiar with the Southern Zone, and have been to the thriving inland city of San Isidro del General (aka Perez--many cities in Costa Rica have 2 names!) I can recommend trusted knowledgeable agents to help you find property here. This town is located about an hour's drive north of my farms.
The Caribbean (eastern) side of Costa Rica is lovely, but not so popular as the Pacific (western) side of Costa Rica. It is characterized by an Afro-Caribbean culture. It tends to have more continuous rain rather than seasons. Limon Province is the most populated area here.