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)
    Workforce Size 3.046.280 active workers

    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)
    Source: World Bank, Numbeo - Last updated May 2025

    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.


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    Working in Costa Rica - FAQs

    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.

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