The quaint town of Escazú is located 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) to the west of downtown San José. A 4-lane highway from downtown San José makes Escazú a 15-30 minute drive, depending on traffic. Escazú is an easy commute to downtown and is only 30 minutes the airport in Alajuela. From San Rafael, on the valley floor, to the mountains of San Antonio the elevation goes from 1,100 meters to 2,300 meters (almost a mile).
Buying real estate and living in Escazú has many attractions: an agreeable climate, natural beauty and views, and many modern conveniences and services. Some of the best schools are close by and land prices are at a premium.
The west side of San José is traditionally the most popular area for foreigners purchasing real estate in Costa Rica. It offers the widest variety of stores, services and products. Some of Costa Rica's best restaurants are in this area, and also most of the international restaurant chains that come to Costa Rica make sure that their first or second location is on the west side. The international airport, the drier climate and great highway access are culprits in making this the most popular area among foreign residents and multinationals. Scroll below for a sketch of the characteristics within each neighborhood in this area.