Top Costa Rican Cities for Developers & Software Engineering Talent

Costa Rica, a country known for its natural beauty and friendly people, is also becoming a rising star in the tech industry. With a growing number of software companies and startups, the demand for skilled software developers is on the rise. Here, we will take you on a journey through the top Costa Rican cities for developers, exploring the opportunities and perks that await these tech-savvy professionals—and businesses in need of tech talent.

Costa Rica is a physically small country, roughly the size of the state of West Virginia. Home to great infrastructure and roadways, highway congestion is nevertheless extreme. It can take multiple hours to get from a city like Cartago to an office in San Jose that is ~40 miles away. This has helped foster a culture of remote work because most engineers prefer to work from home or out of satellite offices in their local region.

Let’s take a look at the best cities in Costa Rica for software engineers.

San Jose: A Vibrant Tech Capital

The bustling capital of Costa Rica, San Jose stands tall as the center of the country’s tech revolution.  San Jose is located in the Central Valley, which is home to two-thirds of the country’s population of roughly 5 million people. With a dynamic startup ecosystem and a host of multinational tech companies, this city is teeming with opportunities for software developers. From cutting-edge mobile app development firms to innovative software-as-a-service (SaaS) startups, San Jose has it all. 

The city’s vibrant culture and amenities, coupled with a supportive tech community, make it an ideal destination for aspiring software developers alike. San Jose features some top educational options, including Universidad de Costa Rica (UCR) and Universidad Cenfotec. The oldest and one of the most prestigious universities in Costa Rica, UCR offers a variety of computer science and software engineering programs. Universidad Cenfotec is a specialized university focusing on technology and computing fields, with intensive programs in software development, web development, and other tech-related disciplines.

Heredia: Where Education Meets Innovation

Nestled just north of San Jose, Heredia is a city known for its top-notch universities and technology-focused educational institutions. 

This educational hub has become a breeding ground for tech talent, producing skilled software developers who are ready to take on the industry’s challenges. Universidad Nacional (UNA) is a prominent public university that offers various programs in computer science, software engineering, and information technology. The School of Informatics (Escuela de Informática) provides a conducive learning environment for software developers to hone their expertise.  The city’s serene surroundings and proximity to San Jose make it an attractive location for tech companies seeking to tap into fresh talent and nurture innovation.

Escazu: A Suburban Tech Haven

The picturesque city of Escazu has evolved into a tech haven in recent years. Situated close to San Jose and the Juan Santamaria International Airport, its upscale shopping and office buildings make it a top pick for U.S.-based companies to open physical offices.

Escazu has a unique blend of urban convenience and natural beauty. Software developers in Escazu enjoy working for dynamic tech startups and established companies alike. The city’s thriving tech community provides ample networking opportunities and collaborative spaces, fostering a supportive environment for developers to grow their careers.

Santa Ana: Emerging Tech Talent Hub

Santa Ana, a city rapidly developing on the outskirts of San Jose, has caught the attention of many tech professionals and businesses. It boasts a growing number of technology companies, making it a compelling destination for software developers seeking to be part of the tech revolution. The city’s modern infrastructure and recreational facilities add to its appeal, attracting tech professionals from various corners of the country and beyond.

Cartago: A Rising Star in Tech

East of San Jose lies Cartago, a city with a rich history and a bright future in the tech industry. Cartago’s tech community is on the rise, with more software development companies establishing their presence in the area. The city’s tranquil environment offers a peaceful atmosphere for developers to focus on their craft while being part of an exciting tech scene.

The Instituto Tecnológico de Costa Rica (ITCR) in Cartago is renowned for its engineering and technology-focused programs. The School of Computer Engineering (Escuela de Ingeniería en Computación) at ITCR offers a range of degrees in software engineering and related disciplines, ensuring students receive hands-on experience and relevant skills.

Costa Rica is a Magnet for Technology Companies

Thanks to its strong technology centers, Costa Rica has attracted a host of major tech companies:

• Intel has had a long-standing presence in Costa Rica, operating a major assembly and testing facility in Heredia. In 1997, Intel invested in the development of a large microprocessor plant, hiring 2,000 people and solidifying Costa Rica’s passion for engineering disciplines. This was considered the catalyst for the country’s focus on STEM programs in universities.
• Oracle, a prominent software and technology company, also has a presence in Costa Rica for software development and other technical roles.
• Microsoft has a significant presence in Costa Rica, particularly in San Jose. 

As its technology prowess grows, Costa Rica’s startup scene is also expanding. Several prominent startups have raised significant venture capital and seen big growth, including:

• Zunify, a payment network providing tech and regulatory toolboxes for anyone to quickly design, issue, and accept any payment product.
• Clear Leaf, creating sustainable crop protection strategies that manage the impacts of harmful pests while maintaining natural balances on the farm.
• Decentral Games, a web3 DAO building ICE Poker, the first metaverse-native, play-and-own poker game.

Costa Rica: Nearshore Talent for U.S. Startups and Enterprises

Costa Rica’s tech landscape is evolving rapidly, and its hottest cities for software developer talent are leading the way. From the dynamic heart of San Jose to the innovation hubs of Heredia, Escazu, Santa Ana, and Cartago, each city offers unique opportunities for software developers to thrive in their careers. With a supportive community, a growing number of tech companies, and a promising future, the top Costa Rican cities for developers are destinations of choice for companies seeking great talent pools.

Terminal opens up the fantastic talent in Costa Rica to growing companies in the U.S.  Time zone-aligned full-time and contract developers can be a powerful accelerator for your business, and the ability to work remotely from anywhere is transformative. Interested in learning more? Talk to us today or start browsing our talent for free!

FAQ

What are the top cities in Costa Rica for software developers?

Costa Rica has many cities with top software development talent, such as San Jose, Heredia, Escazu, Santa Ana, and Cartago.

Is Costa Rica a tech hub?

Yes, Costa Rica is an emerging tech hub. The country offers cost-effective and highly skilled tech talent and strong government investment in STEM education and tech initiatives. It’s also home to branches of international giants like Microsoft, HP, and Intel and burgeoning startups.

How much does a software engineer in Costa Rica make?

Software engineers earn $99,380 annually on average, according to Terminal’s Remote Software Engineer Salaries tool.

What are the best countries for nearshore software development?

Some of the best countries for nearshore software development include Mexico, Costa Rica, Colombia, Chile, Brazil, and Argentina.

Is Costa Rica good for software engineers?

Yes, Costa Rica is great for software engineers. The country has a growing tech workforce with top-tier talent, a thriving software development ecosystem, and a good quality of life.