Country Profile: Costa Rica

Costa Rica, located in Central America, is bordered by the Caribbean Sea to the east and the North Pacific Ocean to the west. With a population of approximately 5.3 million, the country has a mixed economy that includes a significant agricultural sector alongside burgeoning technology and tourism industries. It operates as a presidential republic, emphasizing democratic governance without military forces since their abolition in 1949. Known for its commitment to environmental sustainability, Costa Rica has made strides in reversing deforestation and promoting a green economy.

Geography

Costa Rica covers an area of 51,100 sq km, featuring a diverse landscape of rugged mountains, coastal plains, and numerous volcanoes, several of which are active. The country has a tropical and subtropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons.

Coastline: 1,290 km along the Caribbean Sea and North Pacific Ocean.
Highest Point: Cerro Chirripo at 3,819 m.
Natural Resources: Primarily hydropower.
Population Distribution: Approximately 50% resides in urban areas, mainly in the capital, San José.

People and Society

Costa Rica's estimated population is 5.3 million as of 2025, with a diverse ethnic composition, including 83.6% White or Mestizo. The country boasts high literacy rates and a strong emphasis on education, with a life expectancy of 80.3 years.

Languages: Officially Spanish, with English also spoken.
Urbanization: 82.6% of the population lives in urban areas (2023).
Religions: The major religion is Roman Catholicism, followed by Evangelical and Pentecostal.
Dependency Ratios: Total dependency ratio stands at 42.7 (2025).

Economy

Costa Rica's economy is characterized as trade-based and upper-middle-income, with an emphasis on sustainable practices and a growing technology sector. The country's GDP in 2024 is projected at $138.371 billion, representing a robust service sector.

GDP Growth Rate: Estimated 4.3% for 2024.
Unemployment Rate: 7.9% in 2024.
Exports: Expected to reach $36.77 billion in 2024.
Population Below Poverty Line: 24.4% (2023).

Government

Officially known as the Republic of Costa Rica, it operates as a presidential republic. The current president is Rodrigo Chaves Robles, who took office in May 2022.

Capital: San José.
Legislative Body: Unicameral Legislative Assembly with 57 members.
Suffrage: Citizens can vote from age 18.
Next Election: Scheduled for February 2026.

Military and Security

Costa Rica has no standing military forces, having abolished them constitutionally in 1949. Security is maintained through the Ministry of Public Security, which includes various police services.

Military Expenditures: 0.6% of GDP as of 2024.
Personnel Strength: Approximately 10-15,000 in national security services (2025).

Energy

The country has achieved 100% electrification of its population, with a significant portion of its electricity generated from renewable sources.

Installed Capacity: 3.751 million kW (2023).
Hydroelectricity Contribution: 72.9% of total installed capacity.
Total Energy Consumption per Capita: 30.725 million Btu (2023).

Environment

Costa Rica is recognized for its efforts in environmental conservation, facing challenges like deforestation and coastal pollution.

Forest Coverage: 58.4% of land area (2023).
CO2 Emissions: Estimated at 7.91 million metric tonnes as of 2023.
Biodiversity Agreements: Party to multiple international environmental agreements.

Transportation

Costa Rica has a comprehensive transport network, including roads, ports, and an extensive aviation system.

Airports: 132 as of 2025.
Railways: A limited network of 278 km, primarily out of use.
Merchant Marine: Comprised of 11 vessels.

Communications

The country has a well-developed telecommunications infrastructure, with high rates of mobile and internet usage.

Mobile Cellular Subscriptions: 6.98 million (2024).
Internet Users: 85% of the population (2023).
Fixed-line Telephones: 610,000 subscriptions (2024).

Key Metrics

Metric	Value	Note
Population	5,304,932 (2025 est.)
Area	51,100 sq km
GDP	$138.371 billion (2024 est.)	Purchasing Power Parity
Unemployment Rate	7.9% (2024 est.)
Birth Rate	10.86 births/1,000 (2025 est.)
Life Expectancy at Birth	80.3 years (2024 est.)
Urban Population	82.6% (2023)
CO2 Emissions	7.91 million metric tonnes (2023 est.)
Electricity Access	100% (2022 est.)
Total Energy Consumption per Capita	30.725 million Btu/person (2023 est.)