Utilities in Costa Rica — Lower Than You Think, With One Exception
For independent retirees renting or owning a home in Puerto Viejo, utilities are one of the more pleasant budget surprises. With the exception of electricity — which can run higher than expected if you run air conditioning heavily — most utilities cost significantly less than U.S. equivalents. For the full cost of living picture, see: Cost of Living in Costa Rica for American Retirees: The Complete Guide.
Complete Utility Cost Breakdown — 2026 Estimates
| Utility | Monthly Cost (CR) | Monthly Cost (U.S. Avg) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electricity (no A/C) | $30–$60 | $120–$180 | ICE-supplied, renewable energy |
| Electricity (with A/C) | $80–$180 | $150–$250 | A/C is the major cost driver |
| Water | $8–$20 | $40–$80 | Clean, reliable municipal supply |
| High-speed internet (fiber) | $30–$55 | $60–$100 | Available in most of Puerto Viejo |
| Mobile phone plan | $15–$35 | $60–$120 | Kolbi, Movistar, or Claro prepaid |
| Cable/streaming (optional) | $15–$30 | $60–$100 | Netflix/streaming works perfectly |
| Total (no A/C) | $98–$200 | $340–$580 | |
| Total (with A/C) | $148–$320 | $370–$650 |
Puerto Viejo's Caribbean climate is warm and humid year-round — typically 75–88°F (24–31°C). Most long-term expat residents find that ceiling fans, open-air architecture, and the natural Caribbean breeze make air conditioning unnecessary or limited to the bedroom at night. Homes and residences designed for the tropics — like those at Magnolia Reserve — incorporate natural ventilation that dramatically reduces or eliminates the need for A/C.
Internet Quality
Costa Rica has invested significantly in fiber-optic internet infrastructure, and Puerto Viejo now has reasonably reliable high-speed internet available in most areas. The national provider ICE (Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad) offers fiber plans starting around $35/month. Video calls, streaming, and remote work are all comfortably supported. At Magnolia Reserve, free high-speed internet is included for all residents.
Mobile Phone
Costa Rica has three main mobile providers: Kolbi (ICE's mobile arm, best rural coverage), Movistar, and Claro. Prepaid SIM cards are inexpensive and widely available. Many expats keep their U.S. number active on a low-cost plan (like Google Fi, which works seamlessly in Costa Rica) while using a local Costa Rican SIM for everyday calls and data.