Internet in Costa Rica
Costa Rica has improving internet infrastructure, especially in the Central Valley. Fiber optic is expanding but availability varies by location.
Is the internet fast enough for remote work in Costa Rica?
Yes, in most urban and suburban areas. Fiber and cable internet in the Central Valley and popular expat areas can deliver speeds of 50-500 Mbps, which is more than sufficient for video calls, streaming, and remote work. Rural and coastal areas may have slower or less reliable connections — in those cases, Starlink satellite internet is an increasingly popular solution.
Internet Providers
| Provider | Type | Coverage | Speeds | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kolbi (ICE) | fiber | Nationwide — best coverage in rural areas | 10 Mbps to 300 Mbps | ₡15,000–₡45,000/month ($29–$87) |
| Liberty (formerly Cabletica) | cable | Central Valley and major urban areas | 50 Mbps to 500 Mbps | ₡20,000–₡50,000/month ($39–$97) |
| Telecable | cable | San José metro area and expanding | 30 Mbps to 200 Mbps | ₡18,000–₡40,000/month ($35–$78) |
| Starlink | satellite | Nationwide (satellite) | 50 Mbps to 200 Mbps | $120/month + $599 equipment |
Provider Details
Kolbi (ICE)
Type: fiber | Speeds: 10 Mbps to 300 Mbps | Price: ₡15,000–₡45,000/month ($29–$87)
State-owned telecom. Most reliable in remote areas. Fiber (FTTH) available in urban centers.
Liberty (formerly Cabletica)
Type: cable | Speeds: 50 Mbps to 500 Mbps | Price: ₡20,000–₡50,000/month ($39–$97)
Cable internet with good speeds. Bundle deals with TV. Acquired Movistar's operations.
Telecable
Type: cable | Speeds: 30 Mbps to 200 Mbps | Price: ₡18,000–₡40,000/month ($35–$78)
Cable internet provider with TV bundles available.
Starlink
Type: satellite | Speeds: 50 Mbps to 200 Mbps | Price: $120/month + $599 equipment
Available in Costa Rica since 2023. Best option for remote/rural locations without fiber or cable. No data caps.
Tips for Getting Connected
Check Before You Commit
Internet availability varies block by block in Costa Rica. Always verify that your specific address is serviceable before signing a lease or buying property.
- Check actual availability at your specific address before signing a lease
- Fiber availability varies block by block — ask neighbors about their provider
- Power outages are common in rainy season; consider a UPS for your modem/router
- Coworking spaces are widely available in popular expat areas