Planning a one month in Costa Rica budget typically requires between US$1,700 and US$2,500 for a solo traveler or US$2,500 to US$4,000 for a couple. These figures vary based on your choice of housing, your use of air conditioning, and how often you dine at mid range restaurants.
Please note that prices move. The figures provided here are 2026 ranges specifically for the Quepos and Manuel Antonio area.
Why a month costs less than four weeks of hotels
A month is a different purchase from a week. When you book a hotel for seven days, you pay a premium for the convenience and the high turnover of guests.
Monthly apartment rates are not comparable to weekly hotel rates. The monthly rate is where the real saving is found for those staying longer than two or three weeks.
By committing to a full month, you move from the tourist pricing tier into a long stay tier. This shift significantly lowers your average nightly cost and allows you to live more like a local.
The three ways to spend a month here
The first option is to book a single apartment for the entire stay. This is the most cost effective method as it eliminates extra transport and allows you to settle into one neighborhood.
The second option is a split stay between two bases, such as Quepos and a nearby beach town. This allows you to experience different environments but costs more in transport and minimum stay penalties.
A split stay is only worth the extra expense if the two locations are genuinely different in character or utility. Otherwise, the logistics of moving luggage and checking in twice can be a burden.
The third option is to book a hotel for the first few nights and move into an apartment afterwards. This is a practical choice if your arrival falls on a weekend or if you need a soft landing before committing to a monthly lease.
Housing: what a monthly rate really includes
Furnished apartments in the Quepos and Manuel Antonio area rent for roughly US$700 to US$1,200 a month for one bedroom. For those needing more space, two bedroom units typically range from US$1,000 to US$1,600.
If you are looking for a concrete monthly option, Brunxu offers furnished units designed for this duration of stay. You can find more details on our rental rates page.
Utilities are usually separate from the rent. Electricity and water typically run between US$80 and US$180 a month, with air conditioning being the largest variable in that cost.
Internet is another consideration. If it is not included in your rental agreement, expect to pay between US$40 and US$70 per month for a reliable connection.
Food for four weeks, cooked and eaten out
Groceries for one person generally cost between US$250 and US$450 a month. Shopping at local markets for produce can help keep these costs toward the lower end of the range.
For quick and affordable meals, local sodas are the best option. A typical lunch at a soda costs between US$6 and US$10.
When you choose a mid range dinner for two with a drink, the cost usually lands between US$40 and US$80. Balancing these outings with home cooked meals is the key to staying on budget.
Transport, including the airport run
Getting to the area depends on your arrival point. A Tracopa bus from San Jose to Quepos costs about US$12.50 and takes between three and a half to four and a half hours.
If you fly into the regional airport at La Managua, you are only a short taxi ride from Quepos town. This is faster than the bus from the capital but involves a flight cost.
Once you are in the area, the local bus between Quepos and Manuel Antonio is very affordable. It costs a few hundred colones and runs roughly every 30 minutes.
Taxis are available and convenient for short trips. However, these small fares add up over the course of a month, so the bus is the better choice for daily commutes.
What a day at the park and a week of small trips add up to
A visit to Manuel Antonio National Park usually takes most of a day. You must remember that the park is closed on Tuesdays.
Tickets for the park are sold online only through SINAC. You will need your passport number to complete the purchase, so plan this in advance.
Beyond the park, a week of small trips involves local transport and entrance fees. When combined with the park visit, these activities can add a few hundred dollars to your monthly spend.
Three sample budgets for one person and for a couple
The first sample is a budget for a solo traveler seeking a modest stay. This includes a one bedroom apartment, local soda lunches, and limited AC use, totaling around US$1,700 to US$2,000.
The second sample is for a solo traveler with a higher budget. This includes a premium one bedroom unit, frequent mid range dinners, and full AC, totaling around US$2,200 to US$2,500.
The third sample is for a couple sharing a two bedroom apartment. By sharing rent and utilities, their combined budget typically lands between US$2,500 and US$4,000 depending on their dining and activity habits.
For more detailed breakdowns, you can visit our guide on cost of living in Costa Rica.
The costs that only appear at the end
Several costs are easy to forget when planning. There is a 13% IVA tax on most goods and services throughout the country.
In restaurants, a 10% service charge is already added to the bill. You should check your receipt to see if this is included before adding an additional tip.
Daily essentials like sunscreen and insect repellent are expensive to buy locally. Laundry services also add a recurring weekly cost to your budget.
Finally, most monthly rentals require a one month deposit. This is a significant upfront cost, but it is returned at the end of your stay.
When the green season pays for itself
The high season runs from December to April. During this time, demand is highest and rates for housing and services are at their peak.
The green season, from May to November, brings more rain but also fewer visitors. This results in lower rental rates and more availability.
September and October are the wettest months of the year. While the rain is frequent, the cost savings during these months can be substantial for long stay visitors.
You can explore long term rentals in Quepos to see how seasonal pricing affects your options.
Frequently asked questions
Is one month enough to see Costa Rica?
One month is enough to deeply explore one or two regions, such as the Central Pacific. It is not enough to see the entire country without rushing.
Should I book the whole month in advance?
Yes, especially during the high season. Booking in advance ensures you get the monthly rate and secures your preferred apartment.
Can I pay a monthly rate for 28 days?
Monthly rates are typically reserved for stays of 30 days or more. Stays shorter than this may be billed at a weekly rate, which is higher.
Do I need travel insurance for a month?
Yes, travel insurance is highly recommended for any long stay. It covers medical emergencies and potential trip interruptions.
If you have questions about your stay or want to check availability, you can contact Brunxu via WhatsApp at +506 8853 8245 or visit our reservation page.