Ciudad Colón is the quiet, green small town just west of Santa Ana that many expats choose when they want country living without giving up the city. It is the head town of the canton of Mora in the province of San José, with Escazú and Santa Ana only about 10 to 20 minutes away for shopping and hospitals. The University for Peace, a United Nations–mandated university, sits just outside town, which gives Ciudad Colón a surprisingly international community. Here is what living in Ciudad Colón is like.
Looking at all your options? Read our complete guide to Costa Rica residency, with every category compared.
Why people choose Ciudad Colón
- Small-town calm. A central park, a church, local shops and sodas, and far less traffic than Escazú or Santa Ana.
- The city when you need it. Escazú and Santa Ana, with their malls, supermarkets and private hospitals, are about 10 to 20 minutes away.
- An international community. Students, staff and faculty of the University for Peace live in and around Ciudad Colón, alongside Costa Rican families and expats.
- Green hills and space. The surrounding districts have larger lots, farms and homes with views.
The University for Peace
The University for Peace (UPEACE) was created under a United Nations mandate. Its campus is in El Rodeo, just outside Ciudad Colón, on about 300 hectares of protected land that includes a forest reserve. It is one reason the town is home to people from so many countries.
Mora’s seven districts
Ciudad Colón is in the district of Colón, the centre of the canton of Mora. Mora’s seven districts are Colón, Guayabo, Tabarcia, Piedras Negras, Picagres, Jaris and Quitirrisí. Colón has the services; the other districts are more rural and hilly. Quitirrisí includes the indigenous territory of the Huetar people, recognised by the state since 1976.
Listings that just say “Ciudad Colón” can be anywhere from the town centre to the hills around it, so ask for the district and the exact location, and drive the access road before you decide.
Healthcare
For everyday care there are public clinics (EBAIS) and private doctors locally. For hospital care, the private hospitals in neighbouring Escazú and Santa Ana, including Hospital CIMA, are a short drive away. As a legal resident you will also join the Caja (CCSS); our guide to healthcare in Costa Rica for expats explains how public and private care work together.
Daily life and getting around
Daily life in Ciudad Colón is local and relaxed: the market, small shops, cafés and community events, with bigger shopping in Santa Ana and Escazú. A car makes life much easier, especially in the outer districts. To reach San José, the airport or the Pacific coast, most people head through Santa Ana to Route 27, so the airport is usually well under an hour away and the beach is a day trip.
Renting or buying a home in Ciudad Colón
You will find homes in town, houses with gardens on the edge of town and larger lots and farms in the hills. Many people rent first to learn the area. Ask about water supply, internet at the exact address and the condition of the access road, especially in the rainy season.
If you own a home in Ciudad Colón and want to sell, see GAP Real Estate’s page on how to sell your home in Ciudad Colón.
Moving to Ciudad Colón: residency
To live in Ciudad Colón long term you will need Costa Rican residency, for example as a pensionado, rentista or investor. Our residency requirements guide explains the categories. Comparing towns? See our guides to living in Santa Ana, living in Escazú, living in Atenas and living in Grecia.
Frequently asked questions
Is Ciudad Colón a good place for expats to live?
For many people, yes, especially those who want a quiet small town with an international community, while staying 10 to 20 minutes from Escazú and Santa Ana.
Where is the University for Peace?
In El Rodeo, just outside Ciudad Colón, on a campus of about 300 hectares of protected land.
Is there a hospital in Ciudad Colón?
Ciudad Colón has local clinics for everyday care; the nearest private hospitals are in Escazú and Santa Ana, a short drive away.
Ciudad Colón or Santa Ana?
Santa Ana has more shopping and services; Ciudad Colón is quieter and greener, with more space. Many people live in Ciudad Colón and do their errands in Santa Ana.
Sources: Mora canton data (districts and elevation), the University for Peace and published reporting on the Quitirrisí indigenous territory, checked 15 October 2026. Travel times depend on traffic.
Thinking about moving to Ciudad Colón? CRIE is an immigration law firm in Costa Rica with over 20 years of experience. Talk to our immigration expert, Johanna: WhatsApp +506 8373 2085 or email info@crie.cr.