THE DISTRICT JOURNAL · LIFESTYLE
Escazú and Santa Ana: why the west of the Central Valley draws international families
International schools, first-class hospitals, the valley's best climate and Route 27 at the door. The preferred address for those relocating to Costa Rica.
DISTRICT · October 28, 2026
Those who relocate to Costa Rica for work or with family usually end up looking west of San José. Escazú and Santa Ana bring together something rare: international-standard services, secure gated communities and an easy everyday life.
Escazú: the established address
Its hillsides hold some of the country's best-known residences, with open views over the Central Valley. Minutes away: CIMA Hospital, international schools such as Country Day School and Blue Valley, Multiplaza and the country's most varied dining scene.
Santa Ana: space and sunshine
Santa Ana is drier and sunnier, with larger lots and low-density communities. Lindora and Pozos have become a corridor of corporate offices, shopping and new homes, with direct access to Route 27.
For many families the choice is simple: Escazú for views and neighbourhood life; Santa Ana for space, sun and newer homes.
Connectivity
From either canton, Juan Santamaría International Airport is roughly 25 to 40 minutes away depending on traffic, and Route 27 reaches the Central Pacific coast in just over an hour.
What to look for
Here, value lives in the community: security, upkeep, amenities and who your neighbours are. That is why The District Guide presents each community separately, with the homes we represent in each one.
