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Cost of electricity In Costa Rica Compared To The USA

How Much Does Electricity Cost in Costa Rica?

One of the most common questions we hear in Costa Rica real estate is: How much does electricity cost? Here we will break down for you the actual cost of electricity here in Costa Rica and provide comparative information for the USA to help you make decisions on the best way to manage your use of electricity in Costa Rica.

Let’s break it down.

Understanding Costa Rica’s Electricity Pricing

Electricity costs in Costa Rica depend on the time of day, a pricing structure known as time-of-use rates, which is also common in parts of the United States.

Peak Hours (higher rates):
10:00 AM – 12:30 PM and 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Cost: $0.29 per kWh

Off-Peak Hours (lower rates):
8:00 PM – 6:00 AM
Cost: $0.05 per kWh

These rates mean your energy bill can vary greatly depending on when you use electricity.

How Costa Rica's Electricity Rates Compare to the United States

Here’s a quick look at average electricity rates across some U.S. states (rounded):

  • California: $0.17 per kWh
  • Florida: $0.11 per kWh
  • New York: $0.18 per kWh
  • Hawaii: $0.21 per kWh

As you can see, Costa Rica’s off-peak rates are extremely affordable, but peak rates are higher than most U.S. states.

Reference Map of US Residential Electricity Rates for Comparison

Map showing the United States residential electricity prices (average of 12.55 cents per kWh)

Image courtesy of wikimedia.org

How Using Air Conditioning Affects Your Electric Bill

One of the biggest factors affecting your electricity bill in Costa Rica is air conditioning. For example:

  • A 1,000 sq. ft., two-bedroom home with two occupants using A/C regularly might expect a monthly bill of approximately $125.
  • Bills can vary based on the size of your home, your appliances, and your energy usage habits.

Tips for Managing Your Electricity Costs

  • Schedule high-energy tasks like laundry or cooking during off-peak hours.
  • Use energy-efficient appliances and LED lighting to reduce costs.
  • Invest in smart thermostats or programmable A/C units to optimize cooling.

By understanding the time-of-use pricing and your household energy needs, you can manage your electricity bills effectively in Costa Rica.

Chart showing the Cost of Electricity in Costa Rica (subject to change without notice)

Chart from CNFL in Costa Rica detailing the cost per kWh based on usage.