Grocery Guide in Costa Rica: Tips for Managing Your Budget and Saving (like the locals!)

Living in Costa Rica can be an extraordinary experience, with its natural wonders, pleasant climate and welcoming culture. However, as in any part of the world, it is important to manage your budget to live comfortably and make the most of what the country has to offer. In this guide, we will explore how to manage your daily budget and save on groceries, adopting the habits of Costa Ricans.

Cost of basic foods and other items in Costa Rica

The cost of basic necessities in Costa Rica can vary depending on the region and where you shop. However, below you will find an overview of the average prices of some of the most common essential goods, based on updated data from 2024.

1. Food Products

• White bread (500g): $2.00 – $3.00
• Milk (1 litre): $1.30 – $1.80
• Eggs (dozen): $2.00 – $3.00
• Local cheese (1 kg): $7.00 – $10.00
• Chicken breast (1 kg): $6.00 – $8.00
• Beef (1 kg): $8.00 – $12.00
• Tomatoes (1 kg): $1.50 – $2.50
• Potatoes (1 kg): $1.20 – $2.00
• Bananas (1 kg): $0.80 – $1.50
• Oranges (1 kg): $1.50 – $2.50
• Rice (1 kg): $1.00 – $1.50
• Pasta (500g): $1.20 – $2.00
• Vegetable oil (1 liter): $3.00 – $5.00

2. Home and Personal Care Products

• Dishwashing liquid (1 liter): $2.00 – $3.50
• Toilet paper (4 rolls): $1.50 – $3.00
• Laundry Detergent (3kg): $8.00 – $12.00
• Shampoo (400ml): $3.50 – $6.00
• Soap (1 piece): $0.80 – $1.50
• Toothpaste (100ml): $2.00 – $3.50

3. Products for Children

• Diapers (pack of 28): $8.00 – $12.00
• Powdered milk (900g): $15.00 – $25.00
• Baby Food (190g): $1.50 – $2.50

Where to shop and other saving tips

Shopping smart in Costa Rica requires a little planning and choosing the right locations. Supermarkets like Maxi Pali, Walmart and Perimercados offer good promotions and competitive prices. The weekly farmers markets and San José Central Market are great for fresh, local produce at lower prices. Finally, pulperías and discount stores can be useful for quick purchases and convenience. By following these tips, you will be able to save on groceries and better manage your budget in Costa Rica.

• Local Supermarkets such as Mas x Menos, Automercado and Maxi Pali offer a wide range of products. However, prices may vary, so it is useful to compare the weekly offers.
• Farmers’ Markets (Ferias) Weekly farmers’ markets, or “ferias,” are great for purchasing fresh fruit, vegetables, meat and fish directly from local producers at cheaper prices than supermarkets.
• Neighborhood Shops (Pulperías) Pulperías are small neighborhood shops where you can find basic products. Although the prices may be slightly higher, they are convenient for quick and urgent purchases.
• Choose Local Products: Local products tend to be cheaper than imported ones.
• Using Pulperías: Although slightly more expensive for some products, pulperías offer convenience for urgent purchases and may have competitive offers on some items.
  Having Lunch Out at Sodas  “Sodas” are small local restaurants that offer typical Costa Rican meals at very affordable prices. It’s a great way to enjoy local cuisine without spending too much.