LifeCost Blog
Liberia

Liberia

Costa Rica

Updated on August 22, 2025

Overview

Liberia is the largest city in Guanacaste Province, Costa Rica, located 215 kilometers northwest of San José. Known as 'the white city' for its characteristic whitewashed colonial houses and white gravel used in its historic streets, it is an important tourist center of the country with a well-preserved colonial heritage.

Average cost of living€1,223.00
Quality of Life78/100

Accommodation

Rent room (flat-share)€250.00
1-bed flat (center)€500.00
1-bed flat (outside)€380.00
3-bed flat (center)€900.00
3-bed flat (outside)€700.00

Utilities

Basic utilities€80.00
Internet€45.00
Mobile plan€18.00

Transportation

One-way ticket€0.85
Monthly pass€0.00
Taxi start€1.00
Gasoline (1 l)€1.20

Leisure

Cinema ticket€5.00
Fitness club€30.00

Education

Preschool (month)€300.00
Intl. primary (year)€2,500.00

Buying House

sqm in city center€1,700.00
sqm outside center€1,200.00

Advantages

  • Important tourist center with easy access to beaches and national parks
  • Rich colonial architecture and well-preserved historical heritage
  • Dry tropical climate with less rain than other regions
  • Close to Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport
  • Picturesque old town with the famous Calle Real
  • Natural gateway to the Nicoya Peninsula

Disadvantages

  • × Fewer job opportunities compared to San José
  • × Limited infrastructure in some areas
  • × Very high temperatures during dry season
  • × Less cultural diversity and entertainment options
  • × Limited specialized medical services