As of November 12, 2026, Belize is cheaper than Costa Rica for travelers: a mid-range day costs about $123 in Belize against $128 in Costa Rica, a gap of 3.5%. Over the past year Belize has moved more in the US-dollar traveler's favor (+1.3% after inflation, against −5.9%). Both sit at US advisory Level 2. Costa Rica is the easier of the two to travel.
| Measure | Belize | Costa Rica |
|---|---|---|
| Mid-range day | $123 | $128 |
| Lean day | $57 | $56 |
| Comfortable day | $278 | $289 |
| Real change, 12 months | +1.3% | −5.9% |
| Exchange rate alone, 12 months | +1.0% | −9.7% |
| Versus 5-year average | +3.2% | −10.7% |
| US advisory | Level 2 · Increased caution | Level 2 · Increased caution |
| Ease of travel | 3.3 · Workable | 4.4 · Well set up |
| Index score | 53 | 50 |
| Best months | Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr | Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr |
| Shoulder months | May, Nov | May, Jun, Nov |
The better figure in each row is in bold. Costs are modeled estimates per person, excluding international flights.
The second-longest barrier reef on earth, in an English-speaking country.
The catchPegged at two to the dollar and noticeably pricier than its neighbors. Belize City is best passed through quickly.
Wildlife and stability, at a price: the colón has made it Central America's most expensive stop.
The catchA strong colón pushed dollar prices up sharply since 2022. It is safe and easy, but not cheap.
Source: Trip Arbitrage (triparbitrage.com), reading of November 12, 2026. How this is calculated.