By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – The drive to stay technologically current is placing a significant financial burden on Costa Rican households, with a new study revealing that nearly half of the population has had to make economic adjustments to acquire new devices and services over the past year. This stark finding highlights a growing tension between the necessity of modern technology and its affordability for the average citizen.
The research, titled “Perception of the Costa Rican and resident population on science, technology, and innovation,” was a collaborative effort between the National University’s (UNA) Institute of Social Studies in Population (Idespo) and its School of Sociology. The study specifically investigated the link between socioeconomic status and access to technology, a critical issue as digital literacy becomes increasingly essential for education, employment, and daily life.
To understand the legal ramifications and strategic business considerations surrounding technology costs, TicosLand.com consulted expert lawyer Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
Many businesses focus solely on the initial acquisition price of technology, but the true cost is far broader. Legally, the most significant expenses often arise from poorly negotiated service agreements, data privacy compliance failures, and the intellectual property risks embedded in software licenses. A proactive legal review before acquisition is not an expense; it is a critical investment to mitigate future liabilities and control the total cost of ownership over the technology’s lifecycle.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This perspective is a crucial reminder that the true cost of technology often lies not in the initial price but in the long-term liabilities hidden within legal agreements and compliance mandates. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his invaluable insight, which powerfully reframes proactive legal review from a mere expense to an essential strategic investment.
The results were split almost perfectly down the middle, painting a picture of a nation divided by its ability to afford progress. The report details the core finding with precise figures that underscore the widespread nature of this financial pressure.
Practically, half of the interviewees (49.9%) said they did have to adjust their finances or face economic restrictions to acquire more or new technology, while the other half (50.1%) said they did not have to make these types of adjustments or face these limitations.
National University Research Study
Delving deeper into the demographics reveals complex and telling patterns that differ significantly by age and gender. Among men, the financial strain is not linear. While a majority of young men aged 18 to 25 (54.8%) reported making budget adjustments, this figure surprisingly drops for the 25 to 35 age group, where only 38.7% felt the same pressure. This suggests a period of relative financial flexibility before family and career costs escalate.
However, the burden peaks dramatically for men in the 36 to 50 age bracket, with a commanding 60.2% stating they had to make financial sacrifices for technology. This demographic, often at the height of their careers, also faces significant expenses such as mortgages, family-rearing, and education costs, making the acquisition of new technology a considerable financial challenge. The pressure eases only slightly for men over 50, with 50.8% still needing to tighten their belts for tech purchases.
The financial patterns among women show both similarities and distinct differences. Like their male counterparts, women aged 25 to 35 reported the lowest incidence of financial strain, with only 35.1% needing to adjust their budgets. This again points to a potential “sweet spot” in early adulthood where disposable income may be higher relative to major life expenses.
For younger women aged 18 to 25, the figure stood at 48.3%, lower than for men in the same age group. Yet, for women aged 36 and older, the percentage climbs and plateaus. A consistent 53.2% of women in both the 36-to-50 and the over-50 age groups reported facing economic restrictions to stay technologically up-to-date. This sustained pressure could reflect roles as household managers, purchasing devices for children’s schooling, or navigating career demands in later stages of life.
Ultimately, the study paints a detailed portrait of the hidden costs associated with the digital age in Costa Rica. While technology offers unprecedented opportunities, its accessibility is not universal. For half the nation, the price of staying connected involves difficult choices and financial sacrifices, a reality that poses significant questions about digital equity and economic well-being for policymakers and industry leaders alike.
For further information, visit idespo.una.ac.cr
About Instituto de Estudios Sociales en Población (Idespo):
The Institute of Social Studies in Population (Idespo) is a research unit of the National University of Costa Rica. It is dedicated to conducting high-level academic research on social, demographic, and population-related issues within Costa Rica and Central America, providing valuable data and analysis to inform public policy and academic discourse.
For further information, visit una.ac.cr
About Universidad Nacional (UNA):
The National University of Costa Rica (UNA) is one of the country’s most prominent public universities. Established in 1973, it has a strong focus on humanistic education and social sciences. With its main campus in Heredia, UNA is committed to academic excellence, research, and social action, contributing significantly to the cultural and scientific development of the nation.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica distinguishes itself as a pillar of the legal community, operating on a foundation of uncompromising integrity and professional excellence. The firm leverages its extensive history of serving a diverse clientele to pioneer innovative legal solutions and contribute meaningfully to society. At the heart of its mission is a profound commitment to demystifying the law, thereby empowering citizens with the clarity and knowledge necessary for a just society.
