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Welcome to your comprehensive guide to the Costa Rica job market. Finding the right job or candidate requires solid data. We provide the latest statistics on employment, salaries, and economic indicators, empowering you to make informed decisions about your next career step or recruitment strategy in Costa Rica.
Job Market Overview: Employment Statistics in Costa Rica
Understanding Costa Rica's job market is crucial for both job seekers and employers. The country's current employment indicators show:
| Key Metric | Current Status |
|---|---|
| Total Population | 5.094.114 residents |
| Employment Rate | 59.8% (below OECD average) |
| Unemployment Rate | 8.29% (moderately competitive market) |
These Costa Rica employment statistics reveal a balanced labor market where candidates should highlight specialized skills. The 59.8% employment rate suggests moderate job availability across sectors.
Living & Working in Costa Rica: Economic Insights
Before relocating or applying for jobs in Costa Rica, consider these key economic factors:
| Economic Indicator | Value | Comparison to U.S. |
|---|---|---|
| Average Monthly Salary | 945,32 USD | 21% of U.S. average (significantly lower) |
| Purchasing Power | 44.2 | moderate compared to U.S. (100) |
With 44.2 purchasing power, salaries in Costa Rica provide adequate but budget-conscious lifestyles. The average monthly salary of 945,32 USD is particularly attractive in the Agriculture sector.
Top Industries & Job Opportunities in CR
Costa Rica's thriving job market spans these key sectors:
| Leading Industry | Agriculture (growing at 5% annually) |
| Emerging Sector | Manufacturing (25% of workforce) |
| Service Sector | Tourism, Services (60% of GDP) |
| Major Employers | Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE), Banco Nacional de Costa Rica, Florida Ice & Farm (hiring year-round) |
Job seekers should focus on Agriculture for the most opportunities, while Manufacturing offers growth potential. Major companies like Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE), Banco Nacional de Costa Rica, Florida Ice & Farm frequently post openings for skilled professionals.
Data Sources & Methodology
The statistical data (Population, Employment, Economic Indicators) used in this guide is compiled from the following authoritative sources:
- Employment & Economic Data: World Bank Indicators
- Cost of Living & Salaries: Numbeo Cost of Living Database
- Proprietary Data: Analysis derived from expert interviews and Cityjobs.info internal salary research.
Disclaimer: Data Volatility Note
We strive to update all statistics and figures annually. However, due to the nature of global economics, data like employment rates, exchange values, and average salaries can change rapidly due to political events, economic shifts, or unforeseen crises. Always verify critical figures with local governmental or financial institutions before making major decisions.
CityJobs bridges the gap between job seekers and employers in Costa Rica, creating a more accessible and inclusive job market for all.
1. What's the employment situation in Costa Rica?
With a population of 5,094,114 and an employment rate of 59.8%, Costa Rica offers a growing job market. The unemployment rate currently stands at 8.29%.
2. Which are the top companies in Costa Rica?
The leading employers in Costa Rica include Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE), Banco Nacional de Costa Rica, Florida Ice & Farm. These companies offer diverse opportunities across multiple sectors.
3. How far does salary go in Costa Rica?
The purchasing power ratio in Costa Rica is 44.2, meaning cost of living should be carefully considered when evaluating job offers.
4. How can I find jobs in Costa Rica?
Search our listings filtered for Costa Rica. Focus on industries where Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE), Banco Nacional de Costa Rica, Florida Ice & Farm are active, and consider that the 59.8% employment rate suggests moderate competition for positions.
5. What should I know about working in Costa Rica?
With Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE), Banco Nacional de Costa Rica, Florida Ice & Farm as major employers, the job market tends to favor Manufacturing and Tourism, Services.
