Costa Rica (CR)
Costa Rica is Central America's most stable democracy — a small, lush republic that abolished its army in 1948 and instead invested in education, healthcare, and the environment.
Currency & Money
Practical money tips for living in Costa Rica.
Denominations
Coins: ₡5, ₡10, ₡25, ₡50, ₡100, ₡500. Notes: ₡1,000, ₡2,000, ₡5,000, ₡10,000, ₡20,000, ₡50,000.
Payment Culture
USD is widely accepted alongside the colón, especially in tourist areas, supermarkets, and for large purchases. Many prices are quoted in USD. Card payments are common in San José and tourist zones; cash is essential in rural areas. SINPE Móvil (instant phone-number transfer) is the dominant domestic payment platform among residents.
ATM Tips
Use ATMs at national banks (BCR, Banco Nacional) to avoid high fees. Most ATMs dispense both CRC and USD. Foreign cards incur fees of $3–5 per withdrawal. Notify your bank before travel. ATMs at supermarkets (PriceSmart, Walmart, La Colonia) are generally safe and reliable.
Exchange Tips
Exchange at banks or officially licensed exchange offices (cambistas). Avoid street exchangers. Wise and Revolut offer good rates for international transfers. The Banco Nacional and BCR have competitive official rates. Airport exchange desks offer worse rates — only exchange a small amount on arrival.
Pro tip: Best apps for expats
- • Wise — Send money internationally at near-interbank rates
- • Revolut — Multi-currency account, free ATM withdrawals (limits apply)
- • N26 — German IBAN, free account, good for EU residents