The Costa Rica rental market is evolving rapidly, with exciting changes on the horizon for 2025. At Osa Property Management, we’ve observed significant shifts in demand, pricing, and property preferences across popular rental areas.
Our analysis reveals key factors driving market growth, including increased tourism, expat influx, and economic stability. We’ll explore these trends and their impact on both investors and renters in the coming year.
Costa Rica’s Rental Hotspots in 2025
Costa Rica’s rental market in 2025 thrives, with several areas emerging as prime locations for both short-term and long-term rentals. The market shows a significant uptick in demand across various regions, each offering unique attractions for different types of renters.
Coastal Gems: Jaco and Manuel Antonio
Jaco and Manuel Antonio remain top choices for vacation rentals. A vacation rental in these areas can charge an average of $460 a night and expect an occupancy of 56.30% year-round. The proximity to stunning beaches and national parks drives the appeal of these areas.
Urban Comfort: San José and Escazú
For long-term rentals, San José and Escazú attract increased interest from expats and digital nomads. A modern two-bedroom apartment in Escazú now averages $1,200 per month, reflecting the area’s upscale amenities and proximity to international schools and businesses.
Emerging Markets: Uvita and Ojochal
Uvita and Ojochal gain traction as up-and-coming rental markets. These areas offer a blend of natural beauty and developing infrastructure. A three-bedroom house with ocean views in Uvita can rent for around $2,000 per month, appealing to those who seek a quieter Costa Rican experience.
Property Types in High Demand
Eco-friendly properties lead the market in 2025. For eco-conscious travelers, solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems can justify higher rates while reducing operational costs. This trend aligns with Costa Rica’s commitment to environmental conservation.
Luxury villas with private pools remain popular for short-term rentals, especially in coastal areas. These properties can earn owners upwards of $3,000 per week during peak seasons (a significant return on investment).
For long-term rentals, furnished apartments with high-speed internet attract high demand, catering to the growing remote work trend. Properties offering flexible lease terms particularly appeal to digital nomads.
The Costa Rican Tourism Board reports that vacation rentals now account for 30% of tourist accommodations (up from 20% in 2020). This shift has prompted many property owners to convert long-term rentals into more lucrative short-term options.
Market Evolution and Diversity
The market evolves to meet varying renter preferences. From eco-lodges in the rainforest to modern urban apartments, Costa Rica’s rental landscape offers more variety than ever before. This diversity (ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury retreats) caters to a wide spectrum of renters and investors.
As we explore the factors influencing this vibrant rental market growth, it becomes clear that Costa Rica’s appeal extends far beyond its beautiful beaches and lush rainforests.
What’s Driving Costa Rica’s Rental Market Growth?
Costa Rica’s rental market experiences unprecedented growth in 2025, propelled by a combination of factors that make the country an increasingly attractive destination for tourists and long-term residents alike. These drivers shape the landscape of property demand and rental rates across the nation.
Tourism Boom and Expat Influx
Tourism in Costa Rica has seen some fluctuations. Costa Rica received 0.5% fewer stopover arrivals in December 2024 than in December 2023, according to the Costa Rica Institute of Tourism (ICT). This slight decrease in visitors may have an impact on short-term rentals, particularly in popular areas like Manuel Antonio and Tamarindo.
Simultaneously, the expat population has risen significantly. The Costa Rican Department of Immigration reports a 25% increase in residency applications over the past two years. This influx of long-term residents bolsters demand for both furnished and unfurnished rentals, especially in areas like Escazú and Atenas (known for their expat-friendly communities).
Economic Stability Attracts Investment
Costa Rica’s economic stability continues to attract foreign investment, particularly in the real estate sector. The Central Bank of Costa Rica (BCCR) reports Standardized Report Forms (SRFs) for the central bank, which provide insights into the country’s monetary and financial statistics. This data helps inform investment decisions in the real estate sector, potentially leading to new development projects and property upgrades, enhancing the overall quality of rental inventory.
The government’s pro-business policies (including tax incentives for foreign investors and the popular “rentista” visa program) further fuel this growth. These initiatives make it easier for international investors to enter the Costa Rican rental market, increasing competition and driving up property standards.
Infrastructure Improvements Enhance Accessibility
Significant infrastructure improvements have made Costa Rica more accessible than ever. The expansion of Juan Santamaría International Airport, completed in 2024, has increased flight capacity by 30%, making it easier for tourists and potential renters to reach the country.
Road improvements, particularly the completion of the San José-Caldera highway, have reduced travel times between the capital and popular coastal areas. This enhanced connectivity opens up new regions for rental investment, with areas like Jacó seeing a 20% increase in rental inquiries since the highway’s completion.
The nationwide rollout of high-speed fiber optic internet (a project spearheaded by the Costa Rican Electricity Institute) has become a game-changer for the rental market. Properties with reliable, fast internet connections command premiums of up to 15% in monthly rent, catering to the growing digital nomad population.
These factors combine to create a robust and dynamic rental market in Costa Rica. For property owners and investors, this growth presents significant opportunities to capitalize on increasing demand and rising rental rates. However, navigating this evolving landscape requires local expertise and professional management to maximize returns and ensure compliance with local regulations. As we explore the emerging trends in Costa Rica’s rental market, it becomes clear that adaptability and innovation will play key roles in the success of rental properties in the coming years.
What’s Shaping Costa Rica’s Rental Landscape?
Costa Rica’s rental market undergoes a significant transformation, driven by evolving renter preferences and technological advancements. These changes reshape how property owners manage, market, and tenants experience properties.
The Green Revolution in Rentals
Eco-friendly properties have become a mainstream demand. The Costa Rican Tourism Board promotes sustainability in tourism through its Certification for Sustainable Tourism (CST) program, which aims to make sustainability practical and necessary for tourism competitiveness. This trend attracts environmentally conscious renters and reduces operational costs.
New property listings in 2025 often include at least two eco-friendly features. This trend attracts environmentally conscious renters and reduces operational costs. Properties with solar installations see an average 30% reduction in energy bills.
Long-term Rentals: The New Normal
Remote work fuels a surge in long-term rentals. The Costa Rican Association of Real Estate Brokers and Promoters (ACOBIR) notes a 40% increase in inquiries for rentals lasting three months or more. This shift prompts property owners to adapt their offerings, with many now providing flexible lease terms and work-friendly amenities.
Areas like Escazú and Santa Ana experience a particular boom in this sector. These urban centers offer a blend of modern amenities and proximity to nature, making them ideal for digital nomads and remote workers. Properties in these areas that cater to long-term renters report occupancy rates of up to 85% (significantly higher than the national average).
Tech-Driven Property Management
Technology revolutionizes how owners manage and book rental properties. Smart home systems, which allow remote control of lighting, temperature, and security, become standard in high-end rentals. These features enhance the renter experience and improve energy efficiency and security.
Online booking platforms transform the market. These platforms offer real-time availability, instant booking, and virtual tours, streamlining the rental process for both property owners and tenants.
The integration of AI in property management changes the game. AI and smart technology are revolutionizing the industry, offering unmatched efficiency, security, and tenant satisfaction.
Personalized Experiences
Renters now expect personalized experiences tailored to their preferences. Property managers use data analytics to understand guest preferences and offer customized amenities. This might include pre-stocking the kitchen with favorite foods or arranging specific activities based on past bookings.
Some high-end properties now offer “experience packages” that include guided tours, cooking classes with local chefs, or exclusive access to nearby attractions. These personalized touches help properties stand out in a competitive market and justify premium rates.
Wellness-Focused Amenities
The wellness trend influences the rental market. Properties that offer yoga spaces, meditation gardens, or access to spa services attract health-conscious renters. Some long-term rental properties partner with local fitness instructors or wellness practitioners to offer on-site classes or treatments.
This focus on wellness extends to the property itself. Air purification systems, organic bedding, and non-toxic cleaning products become selling points for health-minded renters. Properties that emphasize these features often see higher occupancy rates and can command premium prices.
Final Thoughts
The Costa Rica rental market in 2025 presents exciting opportunities for investors and renters alike. Economic stability, improved infrastructure, and evolving renter preferences shape a dynamic landscape ripe for growth. Diverse investment options span from eco-friendly properties in Jaco to modern urban apartments in emerging markets like Uvita.
Renters will find an array of choices to suit their needs, from sustainable eco-lodges to smart home-equipped residences. The focus on personalized experiences and wellness-oriented amenities adds significant value to the rental experience. These trends cater to the changing demands of both travelers and long-term residents in Costa Rica.
Osa Property Management stands ready to assist property owners in navigating this evolving market. Our team combines local expertise with advanced technology to deliver comprehensive management solutions. We help maximize returns for owners while ensuring exceptional experiences for renters in Costa Rica’s vibrant rental market.