2025–2026 Economic Forecast: What It Means for Costa Rica’s Real Estate Market

Every time the global economy shifts, buyers and investors naturally ask the same question: “Is now still a good time to buy in Costa Rica?”

The short answer for 2025–2026 is yes — and here’s why.Costa Rica continues to show strength across tourism, luxury demand, digital migration, and foreign investment. While other markets may soften or move sideways, Costa Rica—especially Guanacaste—remains one of the most resilient real estate destinations in the world.

This forecast breaks down how the next two years are shaping up, what factors are driving demand, and what buyers and investors should keep an eye on.

1. Tourism Growth Remains One of the Strongest Indicators

Costa Rica is experiencing record-breaking tourism numbers, and it’s not slowing down.In 2024, the country surpassed pre-pandemic numbers for the first time, and projections for 2025–2026 show continued growth.

This matters for real estate because:

• Higher tourism = more rental demand

• More visibility = more international buyers

• Stronger luxury demand = rising property values

• Investors gain confidence

Guanacaste is at the center of this boom thanks to the Liberia International Airport, new direct routes, and a constant flow of high-income travelers.

2. Remote Work Is Here to Stay — And Costa Rica Is a Winner

Costa Rica continues to attract remote workers, entrepreneurs, and long-stay digital nomads.The digital nomad visa has made it easier for foreigners to live here for extended periods, and the lifestyle is exactly what remote workers want:

• Fast fiber-optic internet

• Cafés and co-working spaces

• Walkable beach towns

• Safe, multicultural communities

• A balanced, wellness-driven lifestyle

This trend directly fuels demand for:

• condos

• modern villas

• long-stay rental homes

• mixed-use residential communities

Remote work is not a pandemic trend — it’s a structural shift. And Costa Rica is one of the most desirable places to live while working online.

3. Flight Connectivity Continues to Expand

Liberia Airport keeps adding routes from:

• the U.S.

• Canada

• Europe

• South America

Direct flights keep the market strong because:

• More buyers discover Costa Rica organically

• Investors feel secure in rental demand

• Accessibility increases property value

• Tourism remains steady, even in green season

Costa Rica’s connectivity is a major competitive advantage in Central America and will continue supporting real estate appreciation.

4. The Luxury Market Is Outperforming the Middle Market

High-net-worth buyers continue to drive demand in:

• Tamarindo

• Playa Langosta

• Hacienda Pinilla

• Playa Grande

• Flamingo

• Las Catalinas

Why? Because they’re motivated by lifestyle, not interest rates.

Global luxury buyers want:

• safety

• ocean views

• modern architecture

• rental income

• long-term stability

• warm weather

• low property taxes

• strong legal protections

Costa Rica hits every one of those points — which is why luxury properties continue to close at record prices.

5. Digital Asset Buyers Are Expanding the Market

This is one of the most underrated drivers of the 2025–2026 forecast.Crypto-capable buyers are looking for:

• ocean-view homes

• luxury villas

• development land

• boutique hotels

• branded residence condos

Sellers who accept digital asset–friendly offers gain access to a new global niche.This group brings liquidity, speed, and high purchasing power.

Expect to see more:

• crypto-to-USD conversions

• tokenized assets

• blockchain-based transactions

• digital wallets used for deposits

This trend is only going to grow.

6. A Strong Rental Market Continues to Raise Investment Value

Short-term and medium-term rentals in Guanacaste remain extremely strong.

High Season:

• 80–95% occupancy

• Premium nightly rates

• Strong family + luxury travel

Green Season:

• Long stays from remote workers

• Return visitors extending vacations

• Digital nomads seeking value

Investors value markets with consistent occupancy — and few places match Guanacaste’s stability.

7. Supply Remains Tight, Especially in Prime Locations

Prices continue to rise because inventory in desirable areas is limited.

Buyers want:

• walk-to-beach locations

• ocean-view homes

• gated communities

• new construction

• sustainable architecture

• high-end amenities

But the reality is:

• Tamarindo can't expand much farther

• Las Catalinas is nearly built out

• Flamingo has limited hillside land

• Langosta is mostly resale

• Hacienda Pinilla has finite inventory

Scarcity creates long-term appreciation.

8. Inflation & Interest Rates in North America Benefit Costa Rica

While interest rates and inflation are still fluctuating in the U.S. and Canada, Costa Rica’s real estate market is less dependent on conventional lending.

Most buyers purchase with:

• cash

• equity lines from their home country

• international lenders

• digital assets

• seller financing

This makes the market more stable and less reactive to global interest rate swings.

9. Major Infrastructure Projects Will Boost Values

Several infrastructure upgrades are planned or underway in Guanacaste:

• new paved roads

• water system expansions

• upgraded medical facilities

• marina improvements

• renewable energy investments

These enhancements directly increase desirability and long-term value.

Forecast Summary for 2025–2026

Here’s what buyers and investors can expect:

✔ Continued appreciation in prime coastal areas

Tamarindo, Langosta, Flamingo, Grande, Conchal, Pinilla.

✔ Strong rental market performance

Especially for modern, well-managed luxury homes.

✔ Rising demand from digital nomads and remote workers

Medium-term rentals will remain strong.

✔ Increasing crypto and digital-asset transactions

More flexibility = more global buyers.

✔ Limited inventory will keep prices strong

Scarcity drives value.

✔ More international lenders entering the market

Financing options continue to expand.

Final Thoughts: Costa Rica Remains a Safe, Strategic Investment

While global markets fluctuate, Costa Rica continues to show resilience, stability, and long-term value.The country’s lifestyle, safety, natural beauty, and international appeal make it one of the most compelling real estate markets for 2025–2026 and beyond.

If you’re considering buying, selling, or investing, this is an excellent window to make a strategic move — and I’m here to guide you with local expertise and a global perspective.