Costa Rica’s National Household Survey begins this week

Officials from the National Statistics and Census Institute (INEC) on Monday began a national survey that will measure the socioeconomic status of Costa Rica’s population.

The National Household Survey is conducted in July each year, and in 2013, INEC expects to survey some 13,000 homes through Aug. 1.

INEC’s survey coordinator, Pilar Ramos, said the agency will obtain statistical information on poverty, housing characteristics, access to public services and education, and household income, among others. 

The survey will cost ₡390 million ($780,000), and all data is confidential.

Last year’s survey revealed that on average, 2 of 10 Costa Ricans are poor.

Ramos said that all INEC staff will be identified with vests and badges displaying INEC logos. They also will be handing out brochures with general information about the survey.

During the first two weeks interviewers will visit homes in the Central Region, and they then will continue with the rest of the country.