Cartago of Costa Rica is one of the oldest provinces and of great historical value to the country. In recent years, Cartago’s real estate market has grown and developed steadily and strongly. With a growing demand from housing to industry, Cartago’s real estate outlook for this 2025 is full of opportunities and challenges that we will point out in this article.
In this article you will find out what are some of these characteristics from Melizandro Quirós, economist and executive director of CENFI.
Cartago, a treasure trove of history and opportunity
Located in the center of the country, one of the main characteristics of Cartago is its proximity to the capital, San José; connected thanks to road systems that have undergone major positive changes in recent years.
The arrival of industrial and commercial zones has revitalized the economy of Cartago, in addition to generating an increase in demand for housing, so sales and rentals are the order of the day.
Positive Points
Affordable prices:
Unlike San Jose, Heredia or Alajuela, Cartago still offers land at competitive prices, allowing the development of high quality housing at lower costs. This is due to a policy that encourages new projects. As a result, Cartago is ideal for those looking for a profitable opportunity or for first time buyers.
Growth in Construction:
Due to the increase in Cartago’s participation in national construction, thanks to the availability of land and investments in road infrastructure, the construction rate in Cartago has gone from 7% to 9% in recent years. This has attracted the attention of developers interested in expanding the supply of housing and industry, stimulating the real estate market, creating employment opportunities and increasing property values.
The expansion of industry and commerce:
Thanks to the installation of new free trade zones, shopping centers and housing projects, the local economy has been boosted. Several foreign companies have moved to Cartago, increasing the demand for commercial space and services.
Opportunities in the rental market:
With the opening of employment opportunities, the demand for rentals has increased. The flow of people looking for temporary or permanent housing has been constant and increasing, making the profitability of rental properties (whether commercial or residential) attractive and strong for investors.
Risk Aspects
However, to make a good investment in Cartago it is also necessary to be aware of some risks or challenges it may face:
- Infrastructure limitations: Despite growth and road connectivity. The increase in vehicular traffic and the lack of mobility solutions can become an obstacle, affecting the quality of life due to the increase in slow traffic.
- Water supply: In some areas, such as Paraíso de Cartago, there are problems with water availability that can affect new developments. Such as the delay of residential or industrial projects in this area.
So, what are our recommendations?
Taking into account all of the above, from Nativu, these are some of the recommendations that you can consider if you are thinking of investing in the real estate sector in Cartago.
- Invest in growth areas: La Unión, downtown Cartago and Paraíso offer good opportunities for investors. These areas have shown an increase in demand for housing and services, which guarantees high profitability for real estate projects.
- Diversification of supply: It is advisable to explore the construction of apartments in towers, as well as the development of houses in the peripheries.
- Focus on rental: Due to the high demand, rental projects can be very profitable. Whether long or short term, with strategic location and amenities.
Cartago is an attractive destination for real estate investment, with growth in construction and competitive prices. The success of your projects can be increased by choosing a strategic location and proper planning.
At Nativu Cartago, our advisors are local and experts in the area. If you are planning to buy, rent or sell in Cartago and surroundings, do not hesitate to contact our advisors.
