Are Furnished Rentals in Costa Rica Suitable for Remote Workers?

Are Furnished Rentals in Costa Rica Suitable for Remote Workers?

Thinking about working remotely from a beachside spot or a jungle retreat? You’re not alone. Costa Rica has become a real magnet for digital nomads. It offers more than just pretty views. The growing number of homes for rent in Costa Rica now includes solid options built for remote life. But are furnished rentals here actually good for remote work? Let’s get into the details.

Internet Isn’t a Guessing Game Anymore

Internet used to be hit or miss in Costa Rica. That’s changed. Most popular towns now offer strong and stable fiber-optic service. In places like San José, Tamarindo, Nosara, and Santa Teresa, you’ll often find speeds of 100 Mbps and up.

Some landlords even list speed test results in the rental ads. Don’t just take their word for it—always ask for proof. If you’re looking at a furnished house for rent in Costa Rica, double check the Wi-Fi setup. Mesh networks, backup routers, and even solar-charged power banks are common in higher-end spots.

Furnished Doesn’t Always Mean Work-Ready

Let’s be honest—just because it’s “furnished” doesn’t mean it’s perfect for work. You might find a couch, bed, and a coffee maker. But is there a proper desk? A good chair? Airflow?

Some places nail it. Others fall short. That’s why you should ask for photos of the workspace before booking. Or better yet, ask if you can jump on a quick video call.

A lot of digital nomads now rent through Facebook expat groups or trusted agents. They offer walkthroughs or know what to recommend based on work needs.

Where to Settle for Work-Life Balance

Location matters. Big time.

● San José has city vibes and reliable internet. It’s great if you need to stay near embassies, coworking spots, or fast shipping.
● Tamarindo offers that chill surf town feel. There’s a ton of remote workers here, and coworking spaces with beach views aren’t hard to find.
● Santa Teresa is more remote. That’s the trade-off—you get peace and nature, but deliveries are slower and power flickers now and then.
● Nosara blends wellness and work-life balance. Think yoga in the morning and Zoom calls in the afternoon.

Check where your rental sits on the map. Just being near town can make all the difference for groceries, healthcare, and social life.

What’s the Real Cost?

Prices vary. A small but stylish furnished one-bedroom might run $600–$900 a month in quieter towns. Go up to $1,500–$2,500 in popular beach towns or near coworking hubs.

Longer stays usually cost less per month. If you book direct with an owner, you can often shave off a chunk by avoiding platform fees.

Many furnished rentals include Wi-Fi, water, and basic maintenance. But electricity? That’s often separate—and not cheap if you love A/C.

Don’t forget to ask about security, too. Some rentals come with alarms, private gates, or even 24/7 guards in gated areas.

Community Vibes Matter More Than You Think

Working alone in a new place gets boring fast. That’s where digital nomad hubs shine.

Coworking cafes, yoga studios, and expat events keep things fun. You’ll meet others doing the same thing. It helps with motivation and mental health.

Tamarindo, Nosara, and parts of San José have strong remote work scenes. Smaller beach towns may not—but you might love the quiet.

Legal Stuff to Know

Costa Rica now offers a digital nomad visa. It gives you up to one year to stay, plus the chance to extend. This makes things smoother if you’re staying longer than the tourist visa allows.

To qualify, you’ll need proof of a steady remote income (currently around $3,000/month). Also, rental contracts longer than three months can help support your visa case.

What to Ask Before You Sign Anything

Here’s a quick checklist before picking your spot:

● Internet speed? Proof available?
● Desk and work chair included?
● Is there A/C or at least a ceiling fan near the desk?
● How’s the power reliability in the area?
● Do neighbors run loud businesses or party late?
● Are there coworking spots or cafes within walking range?
● Any ongoing construction nearby?

Those small things can make or break your experience.

Should You Test the Waters First?

Yes. If possible, rent short-term for a month. Feel the place out. Check the comfort, the heat, the bugs, the internet. If it works, you can often extend right away or find a similar long-term rental.

More than a few nomads have landed in Costa Rica, hated their first rental, and ended up loving their second one—just two blocks away.

Conclusion: What Travis Comstock Thinks

Travis Comstock helps people find smart real estate choices in Costa Rica. He’s more than just an agent—he’s a real guide. People turn to him when they’re unsure about a move, want to build a small business here, or just need a break from the grind.

He’s helped digital nomads find their perfect furnished rentals with reliable Wi-Fi and peaceful surroundings. He’s also advised on long-term homes, investment properties, and vacation homes that double as remote work bases.

For those considering the move, Travis offers not just listings, but local insight—what areas stay cool year-round, which landlords are flexible, and where fiber optics are reliable even in a thunderstorm.

So yes, furnished rentals in Costa Rica can work great for remote workers—if you choose well. And that’s what Travis helps with. From short stays to permanent roots, he knows what fits.

If you’re serious about living and working in Costa Rica, Travis Comstock is someone you want on your side.