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Teaching Jobs in San Jose, Costa Rica

Pura Vida! If you are coming to San Jose, make this phrase part of your everyday vocabulary. Translating to “pure life” or “simple life,” the phrase encapsulates the way of life in Costa Rica. Locals use the phrase to say hello, goodbye, and everything’s cool. Pura vida means don’t sweat the small stuff, no worries, no stress. If this sounds like a great way to live, then you should teach abroad in San Jose.
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1 Teaching Jobs in San Jose

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Teach Explore Asia (XploreAsia)

Top Rated Program Teach Abroad in Costa Rica 2025
Xplore Costa Rica TEFL Program with Guaranteed Placement

Join Xplore’s In-Country TEFL/TESOL + Placement Program for exper...

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International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]

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A Guide to Teaching Abroad in San Jose

What you need to know to teach in San Jose

There’s a lot to consider if you are chasing that pura vida life and choosing to teach English in San Jose. Should you get a TEFL certification before you arrive? Are you looking for a short-term or a long-term gig? Don’t get discouraged, read on for help making the big decisions!

Popular ESL jobs in San Jose. Most English jobs are in private language schools, and for adults who want to improve their language schools to find better jobs and opportunities. You’ll need to be a native English speaker, have TEFL or TESOL certification, and a university degree. Jobs in small communities are often less strict with regards to requirements, as are jobs as private tutors. 

Short-term vs. long-term teaching jobs, and other tidbits on job structure. To teach in San Jose, you can get a full-time or part-time contract, or even several part-time contracts if you’re good at time management. Less formal private lessons, not in a school or institution, offer more flexibility than contract work. Contracts will usually have you working 10 to 25 hours a week (which gives you plenty of time to explore!). The day is generally split up, with school and work starting early and going until noon. Then there is a break, and class/work resumes from about 4 to 8 in the evening. 

Teaching English vs. teaching other subjects. English is probably the most in-demand subject to teach abroad in San Jose, since English is such an in-demand skill in today’s economy. As a native English speaker you can offer your students more than just language learning. You can teach them about your home and culture too. 

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Frequently Asked Questions

Daily living expenses in Costa Rica is relatively affordable compared to other top destinations worldwide. Factors like competition in the tourism industry, government initiatives, and strong economic performance make it a budget-friendly destination for teachers.

As the capital and largest city of Costa Rica, San Jose is generally safe. However, you should practice caution while out and about in crowded public areas. The city boasts several beautiful parks where you can hang out, but not at night. You should also avoid walking around at night, especially in unlit streets.

Each neighborhood in San Jose, Costa Rica, features a unique characteristic. But if you want to easily narrow down choices, check out Barrio Escalante, San Pedro, La Sabana, Rohrmoser, and Los Yoses. These upscale neighborhoods are where many students, professionals, and young families stay.

For starters, you need to possess the requirements to teach abroad in Costa Rica. A four-year university degree might not required, but it puts you ahead of the competition. You need native English proficiency and at least a 120-hour TEFL certificate from a reputable institution. If you have these, the best way to begin your search for teaching placements is through an online platform.

Teachers in San Jose, Costa Rica, typically earn an average salary of 1,929,900 CRC (3,717 USD) per month. Teacher salaries vary significantly depending on experience, skills, and qualifications. The good news is that many employers provide benefits, such as housing, to help with daily living expenses.

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A Creative Adventure!

December 05, 2025by: Alex Torres - United StatesProgram: Xplore Costa Rica TEFL Program with Guaranteed Placement
9

This was truly a beautiful experience—one I’d recommend to anyone, whether you’re an aspiring teacher, healer, artist, or any other walk of life. It may terrify you, intimidate you and possibly make you question your life choices, but I assure you, you will not regret it. To have the ability to step out of your comfort zone is in itself a blessing and what better way to learn more about yourself than by being an English Teacher. I had a 6 month contract at Colegio Victoria in Costa Rica where I covered for another teacher who was on a maternity leave. I've already had experience as a teacher but this type of role was completely new to me for 2 main reasons. I found myself teaching an older age group, despite having little experience with that level, and a subject I wasn’t very versed in: American Literature. It pushed me well beyond my comfort zone! So I decided to dig deep as I usually do. With my background in Art as a 2D animator I connected the dots and realized the similarities between literature and 2D animation. The concept of creating fiction in any medium has always been innate to me and the appreciation of a well-written story has always been present with me. When my workload felt overwhelming I used Ai tools to assist me in the Literature Analysis as well. I felt accepted by the students and staff because I was upfront about my learning curve and although I faced challenges, I decided to make the best of it. Currently, I am still in Costa Rica living with my girlfriend (a fellow teacher) and may even consider becoming a resident here.

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