Payroll in Costa Rica

Wages

Daily minimum wages range from 12,236.95 CRC to 15,983.95 CRC. Monthly minimum wages range from 367,108.56 CRC to 413,023.56 CRC.

National minimum wages, excluding those based on piecework, are set at 12,236.95 CRC per day for unskilled workers and 15,983.95 CRC per day for specialized workers. This rate applies across various sectors, including agriculture, manufacturing, and services.

Salaries

The overall annual average salary in Costa Rica is approximately 5,000,000 CRC per year, with monthly ranges from 350,000 CRC to 600,000 CRC, depending on the position and experience. The monthly median salary in Costa Rica is around 450,000 CRC.

By gender, the average annual salary for men is 5,200,000 CRC, while the annual average salary for women is 4,800,000 CRC.

Salaries by location in Costa Rica

San José: Known for offering salaries 20% higher than the national average for junior roles and 15% higher for mid-level roles, especially in sectors like finance, technology, and services.

Alajuela: Offers salaries 10% higher than the national average for senior positions, particularly in manufacturing, logistics, and services.

Heredia: Salaries have remained stable, aligning closely with the national average across various sectors.

As your employment partner in Costa Rica, we can provide you with resources and insights about average employee compensation in various job positions, so you can be better equipped to make a competitive employment offer.

Payroll frequency

In Costa Rica, employees are typically paid on a monthly basis, with salaries disbursed no later than the last working day of the month, as specified in the employment contract or company policy. The Costa Rican Labor Code mandates that remuneration must be paid at least once a month, ensuring regular income for employees.