Costa Rica, a Central American country renowned for its biodiversity and stable democracy, has experienced major demographic shifts over the past seven decades. In 1950, Costa Rica’s population was just 927,000. By 2024, it had grown to 5.13 million, marking more than a fivefold increase. However, projections suggest that Costa Rica’s population will peak mid-century and then gradually decline, reaching just 3.7 million by 2100.
Costa Rica’s Historical Population Growth (1950–2024)
Costa Rica’s population rose rapidly during the second half of the 20th century:
- 1950: 927,000
- 1970: 1.84 million
- 1990: 3.12 million
- 2000: 3.94 million
This boom was fueled by higher fertility rates, declining infant mortality, and improvements in healthcare and education.
Population in the 21st Century (2000–2024)
From 2000 onwards, Costa Rica continued to grow but at a slower pace due to declining fertility.
- 2010: 4.56 million
- 2020: 5.03 million
- 2024: 5.13 million
While the population is still increasing, growth has significantly slowed, signaling an eventual plateau.
Costa Rica’s Future Population Projections (2025–2100)
Costa Rica’s population is expected to peak around 5.38 million in the early 2040s before entering a gradual decline.
| Year | Population (millions) |
|---|---|
| 2030 | 5.25 |
| 2040 | 5.37 |
| 2050 | 5.35 |
| 2075 | 4.72 |
| 2100 | 3.78 |
By the end of the century, the country’s population is forecasted to fall below 4 million, returning close to early 1990s levels.
FAQ
Costa Rica’s population in 2024 is approximately 5.13 million.
The population is expected to peak around 2040–2045 at about 5.38 million.
The decline is mainly due to low fertility rates, an aging population, and slower immigration trends.
By 2050, Costa Rica is projected to have about 5.35 million people.
By 2100, the population is expected to decline to around 3.7 million.
Source:
United Nations. World Population Prospects 2024.
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