Cost of living in Turrialba
Turrialba, a charming city in Costa Rica, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Understanding the cost of living here is crucial for anyone considering a move or extended stay.
This guide provides a detailed breakdown of expenses in Turrialba, covering everything from dining and groceries to transportation and housing.
Cost of Living Summary
Dining and Restaurants
- Inexpensive Restaurant Meal - A meal at a casual restaurant will typically cost $10 on average, with a range between $7 and $19.74.
- Mid-Range Restaurant (Three-Course Meal for Two) - For a more upscale dining experience, expect to pay around $59.23, with prices ranging from $39.49 to $98.71.
- Fast Food (e.g., McDonald's) - A McMeal or equivalent combo meal averages $9.87, with a range between $9.77 and $11.85.
- Beverages (e.g., Domestic Beer, Imported Beer, Cappuccino, Coke/Pepsi) - Domestic beer ranges from $1.97 to $5, imported beer $2.96 to $6, cappuccino $2.17 to $6.91, and Coke/Pepsi $1.55 to $2.96.
Grocery Prices
- Milk - Milk is priced between $1.38 and $2.37 per liter, averaging $1.94.
- Bread (Loaf of Fresh White Bread) - A loaf of fresh white bread costs between $1.23 and $4.34, with an average price of $2.63.
- Eggs (Dozen) - A dozen eggs range from $1.97 to $5.53, averaging $3.3.
- Fruits (e.g., Apples, Oranges) - Apples cost $2.76 to $6.52 per kg, while oranges range from $2 to $5.92 per kg.
- Vegetables (e.g., Potatoes, Lettuce) - Potatoes are priced between $1.09 and $4.28 per kg, and lettuce costs $0.79 to $2 per head.
Transportation
- Fuel (Gasoline) - Gasoline is priced between $1.33 and $1.57 per liter.
- Taxi Fares - Taxi fares start at $1.38, with a cost of $1.38 to $2 per km and $6.83 to $8.88 per hour of waiting.
- Car Purchase - A new Volkswagen Golf costs between $31,193.89 and $40,000, while a Toyota Corolla ranges from $30,000 to $34,374.34.
Housing Costs
- Preschool (or Kindergarten), Full Day, Private, Monthly for 1 Child - Monthly preschool costs range from $394.86 to $918.05, averaging $616.97.
- International Primary School, Yearly for 1 Child - Yearly costs for international primary school range from $9,871.48 to $19,320.47, averaging $12,575.34.
Utilities
- Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Water, etc.) - Basic utilities for an 85m2 apartment cost between $39.49 and $118.46, averaging $83.71.
- Internet - Internet services range from $39.49 to $82.92, with an average cost of $53.35.
Cost of Living Rankings
The cost of living indices for Costa Rica are compared to New York City (NYC), which serves as the baseline with an index of 100. These provide insights into the relative cost of living in different cities in Costa Rica, covering factors like consumer goods, rent, and purchasing power.
Cost of Living Data
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"Key Takeaways"
Turrialba offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to larger cities in Costa Rica. Dining and grocery prices are moderate, making it easier to manage daily expenses.
Transportation costs are reasonable, especially for those who rely on public transport or taxis. However, purchasing a new car can be a significant investment.
Housing and utility costs are manageable, with various options available depending on your budget and lifestyle preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Turrialba presents a balanced cost of living that caters to both locals and expatriates. The city offers a mix of affordability and quality of life, making it an attractive option for those looking to experience Costa Rica's natural beauty and culture.
Whether you're planning a short visit or a long-term stay, understanding the cost of living in Turrialba will help you budget effectively and enjoy all that this vibrant city has to offer.