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Northern Plains and La Fortuna

Volcano views, hot springs and farmland around La Fortuna. Strong inland value.

Investing in Northern Plains and La Fortuna

The Northern Plains represent Costa Rica's most diversified agricultural and ecotourism investment region, attracting a balanced mix of North American (40%), European (30%), and Costa Rican (30%) investors seeking productive land and authentic experiences.

The market features steady growth with increasing international recognition, properties typically selling within 6-12 months when properly priced, and strong appreciation potential as infrastructure improvements enhance connectivity to this agriculturally rich region.

Appreciation

Average annual appreciation of 4-8% over the past decade, with properties featuring thermal water sources, volcanic views, or strategic highway access outperforming at 7-10% in strong market periods.

Highlights

Year-round agricultural production capabilities
Abundant water resources throughout the region
Strategic positioning between two international airports
Lower cost of living than coastal or Central Valley areas

Popular property types

  • Commercial Spaces
  • Development land with subdivision potential
  • Mixed-use commercial properties

Northern Plains and La Fortuna market at a glance

Region-wide ranges, USD

Average prices

Inland Homes

$150,000-$450,000

Development Land

$150,000-$450,000

Commercial Retail Space

$350,000-$1,500,000

Rental yield by property type

Long-term Residential Rentals

4-7%

Commercial Properties

7-10%

Is Northern Plains and La Fortuna right for you?

Grade B+ · Mature market

La Fortuna

La Fortuna is best for nature-based hospitality, boutique lodging and retreats, and investors leveraging Arenal Volcano’s year-round tourism.

Time to sell

3-6 months

Occupancy high / low

61% / 38%

Good fit for

  • Rental income investor
  • Developer
  • Family relocation
  • Hospitality operator

Current market trends

Increasing demand for turnkey agricultural operations with established markets
Rising interest in farm-to-table tourism experiences
Growing premium for properties with renewable energy potential
Strategic land acquisition along improved highway corridors
Development of retirement-focused communities with medical proximity

Why investors choose Northern Plains and La Fortuna

Excellent agricultural production conditions year-round
Substantially lower property acquisition costs than coastal areas
Cooler climate with more moderate temperatures year-round
Access to regional healthcare facilities in San Carlos and Ciudad Quesada
Strong local labor market for agricultural and tourism operations

Properties for sale in Northern Plains and La Fortuna

Live listings, updated daily

I was introduced to Richard via a friend (who was introduced to him via another friend). I can’t thank these friends enough. Just as they experienced, Richard was an incredible advisor (he’s not a realtor, but more an investment advisors who knows the market and potential returns well, he managed over $1B in luxury sales here) who educated me about the market and investment approaches, as much as he introduced me to various home and lot options. He was incredibly knowledgeable, supportive and responsive to any/all of my questions — and there were a LOT! — and never pushed any agenda on me other than my best interests.

Stephanie Bernstein

Investor

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