Economy Overview

Costa Rica's basically stable economy depends on tourism, agriculture, and electronics exports. Poverty has been substantially reduced over the past 15 years, and a strong social safety net has been put into place. Foreign investors remain attracted by the country's political stability and high education levels, and tourism continues to bring in foreign exchange. However, traditional export sectors have not kept pace. Low coffee prices and an overabundance of bananas have hurt the agricultural sector. The government continues to grapple with its large deficit and massive internal debt and with the need to modernize the state-owned electricity and telecommunications sector.

Money and Costs

The national currency is the colon. The exchange rate fluctuates in relation to the U.S. dollar. Dollars can be exchanged in any bank in the National Banking System or at most hotels. Credit cards are widely accepted. Smaller, local establishments and many lodges only accept cash.