I am going to Costa Rica; what is the least dollar amount that a traveler can live on in its major city?

Question

Its supposedly friendly to American travelers and free of political problems.

Answer 1

Well, San Jose is pretty much economically current as a typical US city so get enough money!

Answer 2

Costa Rica is not that cheap. Personally I think to have a good quality of stay. You need $1000 dollars a month.  Without staying in a hostel About the cheapest decent room is $12

Answer 3

If living under a bridge and eating out of dumpsters is ok for you, you can live on very little.

Othewise... what kind of standards do you choose to live by?

Answer 4

In San Jose hotels rates vary from 5,000 colonies $10 and up depending what you require.  The Dunn Inn is lovely and runs about $50 a nite.  Food depends on what you like.  McDonalds and other fast foods are at US prices.  Local Typical food runs about $1.50 - $2 a meal  ex.  chicken in a sauce with white rice, black beans, & salad.  Taxis rates have gone up due to increase fuel prices, but still are very cheap.  Beer is around $1 -$2 a bottle (and it;s good beer) depending where you go.  The bars catering to Gringos are always higher. There are a lot of better places to see & visit than San Jose.  It is another big chitty, and somewhat dangerous after dark. Depending on what you are looking for.  Quepos and Manuel Antonio Park  is a popular tourist area, (a bit pricey tho. as is Jaco and the Guanacaste beaches) I live in Golfito on the Golfo Dulce, it's a pretty little town.Beaches are close, rain forest right here, mountains not far away.   Also is about an hour from Panama border so you can see that culture  also.  Oh yes, Costa Rica is extremely American friendly, and politics are not a problem.  

Hope this helps.

Enjoy your trip.