Do you earn more or less than the average in Costa Rica? Find out here
- May 27, 2025
- Comments: 0
- Posted by: Andrés David Vargas Quesada
The most recent data from the Caja Costarricense del Seguro Social (CCSS) and the Ministerio de Trabajo (MTSS) reveal significant differences in wages across Costa Rica. But how can you tell if you’re earning a fair amount?
Below, we’ll help you determine where your salary stands compared to the national averages for 2025.
Minimum wage 2025: The starting point
As of January 1, 2025, minimum wages in the private sector increased by 2.37%. According to Decree No. 44756-MTSS, here are some key figures:
University graduate: ₡784,139.53
Technical degree holder: ₡432,819.25
Unskilled labor: ₡367,108.55
Domestic work: ₡258,376.22
General laborers and helpers (daily): from ₡12,236.95 per day
These figures represent the legal minimum you should be receiving. If you earn less, your employment conditions may be non-compliant.
Average salary in Costa Rica: What “most people” earn
According to the MTSS and the OCDE:
National average monthly salary (2025): ₡767,604
Average monthly salary (2022, OECD): ₡1,102,323
There’s also a noticeable salary distribution:
32% of formal workers earn less than ₡400,000
38% earn between ₡400,000 and ₡1,000,000
20% earn between ₡1,000,000 and ₡2.5 million
Only 10% earn over ₡2.5 million per month
The wage gap remains considerable.
Are you above or below average?
Now that you have the numbers, the key question is: Do you earn more or less than the average in Costa Rica?
If your monthly income exceeds ₡767,604, you’re above the national average.
If it’s below ₡367,108.55, you may earn less than the legal minimum.
If you earn over ₡500,000, you are above the median formal wage in the country.*
*Formal wages in Costa Rica are above ₡500,000 per month: half of formal workers earn below that amount, and the other half earn more, based on recent data from the MTSS and national reports.
Young workers, part-time shifts, and BMC
In 2025, the CCSS introduced a reduced Minimum Contributory Base (BMC) for people under 35 working part-time. This allows for social security contributions proportional to actual earnings.
It’s estimated that 175,000 workers benefit from this measure. If you’re in this group, be sure to check your reported salary monthly through the CCSS Virtual Office.
Your salary speaks—listen to it
Do you earn more or less than the average in Costa Rica? With data from the MTSS and CCSS, you can make a realistic and objective comparison. It’s not just about how much you make—it’s also about legality, formality, and fair wages.
If you discover that you’re below the minimum wage, you have the right to demand better conditions. And if you’re earning more—congratulations!
