Turrialba, Costa Rica: Houses and Lots in the Caribbean Foothills

Turrialba sits at the foot of an active volcano, with Guayabo National Monument (a pre-Columbian site), coffee and sugar farms, local cheese and some of the best whitewater rafting in the country on the Pacuare and Reventazón rivers. It is about 65 km from San José, a drive of 1.5 to 2 hours, so it works for lifestyle buyers rather than daily commuters. Rain is frequent and the climate is humid and green.

Expect cooler nights than the Pacific coast and keep an eye on mould in older buildings.

Costa Rica gives foreigners the same property rights as citizens outside the restricted coastal zone. A notary public (an attorney) prepares the deed, and the title is registered at the National Registry. Transfer tax is 1.5% of the higher of price or tax value, with additional notary and registration fees. Check the plan (plano catastro), existing liens and water supply, especially for rural land with a community water association.

Our Costa Rica consultation guide and financing page have more, the country hub lists other cities, and the market analysis adds context.

Curridabat, Santa Ana and Escazú are San José suburbs, the nearest being Curridabat. Alajuela, Atenas and Jaco are west of the capital and are separate markets.