Upala, Costa Rica
Capital City

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Est. Monthly Cost (1 Person)

$1846

Retiree Score

0.0

Safety Index

45.9

Healthcare

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With a population of just 14,154, Upala is a sleepy supply town in the northwest corner of Costa Rica's San Carlos Plain. While it offers the conveniences of a hospital, bank, and commercial marketplace, the bureaucracy and paperwork required to live here can be a persistent headache. The tropical savanna climate brings a pronounced dry season, which may be challenging for some. Overall, Upala is best suited for those seeking a quiet, rural lifestyle close to nature, rather than the fast-paced amenities of bigger cities.

Can I afford Upala?

Total Monthly Household Income (After Tax):

Lifestyle: comfortable

✅ Meets Costa Rica Digital Nomad Visa Income Rule.

You could save

$1647 / month

Savings Rate55%

Rent (Bahamas Average Adjusted)$542

Living Costs $810

Safety

Healthcare

Walkability

Nomad

Grocery Basket

Milk (1L)$2

Bread (loaf)—

Eggs (12)$3

Rice (1kg)—

Chicken (1kg)—

Eating Out

Meal (Inexpensive)$11

Meal (Mid-range)$129

Cappuccino$4

Water (0.33L)—

Utilities & Lifestyle

Utilities (mo)$55

Mobile Plan (mo)$33

Gym (mo)—

Cinema Ticket$9

Housing

1BR Center (mo)—

1BR Outside (mo)—

3BR Center (mo)—

3BR Outside (mo)—

Expat Life

English Proficiency

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Expat Community

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Top Neighborhoods

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Elevation

85m

Nearest Airport

LIR (67km)

Local Economy

Avg Monthly Salary

—

Mortgage Interest Rate

9.62%

🌐 Infrastructure & Lifestyle

Avg Internet

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Temperature

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Annual Rainfall

3217 mm

Coworking Spaces

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Best Months to Visit

May, Jun, Jul, Aug