Costa Rica

Long controlled by Spain, Costa Rica gained its independence in 1821, and became a true Central democratic development.  Driven by agricultural products (especially coffee), and strong technology and tourism industries, Costa Rica has a high standard of living, especially when compared to other nearby countries.   Land ownership is widespread.  Dominated by mountain ranges replete with volcanoes, the country has suffered through its share of eruptions, as well as devastating earthquakes.

Costa Rica is a stunning land, with much of it heavily forested. The coastal areas are ringed with mangrove swamps and beautiful, white sand beaches.

The overall climate is generally hot and rainy, with moderating conditions in the higher elevations. The dry season is from December to May and the wet season is from May to November.

Facts and Figures

  • Official Name The Republic of Costa Rica
  • Population 4,148,500
  • Capital City San José (337,000) metro (1.5 mil)
  • Languages Spanish (official), English
  • Religions Roman Catholic 76.3%, Evangelical 13.7%, Jehovah’s Witnesses 1.3%, other Protestant 0.7%, other 4.8%, none 3.2%
  • Land Area 51,060 sq km (19,714 sq miles) slightly smaller than West Virginia
  • Highest Point Chirripo, 12,533 ft. (3,820 m)
  • Terrain Coastal plains separated by rugged mountains including over 100 volcanic cones, of which several are major volcanoes.  Two active volcanoes rise near the capital of San José in the center of the country; one of the volcanoes, Irazu, erupted destructively in 1963-65.
  • Natural Resources Hydropower
  • Land Use Arable land (4.4%), permanent crops (5.9%), other (89.7%)
  • Age Structure 0-14 years 29.5%; 5-64 years 65%; 65 years and over 5.5%
  • Infant Mortality Rate 10 deaths for every 1000 live births
  • Life Expectancy at Birth Total population  76.6 years; male 74 years; female 79.3 years
  • Ethnic Groups White (including mestizo) 94%, black 3%, Amerindian 1%, Chinese 1%, other 1%
  • Literacy defined as those age 15 and over who can read and write.  Total population 96% (2003 est.)

Click HERE to compare the US to Costa Rica