Top 5 student cities in Costa Rica

Choosing where to study is a key decision, and Costa Rica offers a very attractive setting for those seeking quality academic training in a natural and safe environment. In this article on the top 5 student cities in Costa Rica, we review the most interesting destinations for university life, considering factors such as educational offerings, cost of living, and opportunities for national and international students.

 

Below, you’ll find an analysis of each city with its pros and cons, the most prominent universities, and how student rentals work in each case. From our online student accommodation platform, we accompany you in your search so that you can organise your stay simply and without complications.

 

San José

San José is Costa Rica's university city par excellence. With the largest concentration of universities in the country, the capital is chosen by many students for its variety of degree programmes, lively atmosphere and opportunities to travel to the rest of the country.

 

Pros and cons of studying in San José

Living and studying in San José offers many benefits, although there are also certain negative aspects to consider during your stay.

 

Pros of studying in San José

• It welcomes the largest number of Costa Rican and international students.
• Wide range of universities and academic programmes.
• Good range of leisure and nightlife options.

 

Cons of studying in San José

• Expenses are higher than in other cities in the country.
• Less contact with natural environments.

 

Top Universities in San José

Some of Costa Rica's most renowned institutions are located in San José.

 

Universidad de Costa Rica (University of Costa Rica)

The UCR is an academic benchmark at national and international level. It’s the largest university in the country and the one that offers the most programmes.

It has campuses in different parts of the country, but its main headquarters are in San José. This is the Rodrigo Facio Brenes University City, in the San Pedro de Montes de Oca neighbourhood. In this guide, we tell you more about its locations and how to find accommodation near the University of Costa Rica.

 

Student housing in San José

San José has the highest rental prices in the country, but it always depends on the type of accommodation and the location. For example, a single room in student neighbourhoods usually costs around €370-550 per month, excluding utilities.

 

If you’re going to study in the capital, check out our guide to student housing in San José, Costa Rica, with information on prices and recommended neighbourhoods.

 

Heredia

Heredia is one of Costa Rica's most important university towns and tends to attract students looking for a quieter environment than San José, without straying too far from the country's main academic hub. Its smaller size and strong student identity make it a highly valued option for young people.

 

Pros and cons of studying in Heredia

Studying in Heredia can be a great experience because of its advantages, although it also involves some challenges.

 

Pros of studying in Heredia

• Very good university atmosphere.
• It’s more affordable than San José.
• Good public transport connections and proximity to the capital.

 

Cons of studying in Heredia

• More limited cultural and leisure activities.
• Fewer job opportunities than in San José.

 

Top Universities in Heredia

Heredia is best known as the home of the National University of Costa Rica (UNA), one of the country's most prestigious public institutions, with a strong focus on research, social sciences, education and the environment.

 

Student housing in Heredia

Rent for students in Heredia is usually more affordable than in San José. In areas close to university campuses, a single room in a shared flat usually costs around €300-450 per month, generally excluding utilities.

 

San Ramón

San Ramón is a university town with a more local feel, ideal for those seeking a quiet pace of life and closer contact with the community. It’s a popular choice for students who prioritise a relaxed environment and lower costs, but still want good academic quality.

 

Pros and cons of studying in San Ramón

San Ramón offers many academic opportunities, although it isn’t without certain drawbacks for students.

 

Pros of studying in San Ramón

• The costs are more affordable than in the capital and Heredia.
• Close-knit student community.
• Calm and safe environment.

 

Cons of studying in San Ramón

• More limited academic and cultural offerings.
• Limited job opportunities.

 

Top Universities in San Ramón

San Ramón is home to the University of Costa Rica – Western Campus, one of the UCR's most important regional campuses, renowned for its academic quality and its impact on educational development in the region.

 

Student housing in San Ramón

San Ramón stands out for having some of the most affordable rental prices in the country. As a reference, a single room in a shared flat usually costs between €200 and €350 per month, generally excluding utilities.

 

Cartago

Cartago is a city with a strong academic tradition and a distinctly university-oriented profile. Its proximity to San José and its more peaceful atmosphere make it an attractive option for students seeking a high-quality education without the fast pace of the capital.

 

Pros and cons of studying in Cartago

Being a student in Cartago has many favourable aspects, but there are also factors that may be less appealing.

 

Pros of studying in Cartago

• Presence of prestigious universities.
• Lower cost of living than in San José.
• A tidier environment and less urban congestion.

 

Cons of studying in Cartago

• Colder and rainier weather for most of the year.
• Dependence on transport to San José for certain activities.

 

Top Universities in Cartago

Cartago is home to the Technological Institute of Costa Rica (TEC), one of the most prestigious universities in the country, particularly in the fields of engineering, technology and applied sciences.

 

Student housing in Cartago

Because it’s outside the capital, like Heredia, rents for students in Cartago are more affordable than in San José. In areas close to university campuses, a single room in a shared flat usually costs around €280-420 per month.

 

Alajuela

Alajuela is another city chosen by students seeking a quieter environment than the capital, without straying too far from the Greater Metropolitan Area. Its location and slower pace of life make it an attractive option for those who prioritise comfort, good transport links and moderate costs during their university years.

 

Pros and cons of studying in Alajuela

The academic experience in Alajuela has many advantages, but certain disadvantages could influence your stay.

 

Pros of studying in Alajuela

• More moderate cost of living.
• Good connection to San José and proximity to the international airport.
• More relaxed atmosphere.

 

Cons of studying in Alajuela

• Fewer options for night-time and daytime leisure activities.
• More limited academic offerings.

 

Top Universities in Alajuela

Alajuela is home to important universities, such as the National Technical University (UTN), renowned for its practical approach and links to the labour market, particularly in technical and professional fields.

 

Student housing in Alajuela

Rent for students in Alajuela is usually more affordable than in San José and Heredia. Single rooms in shared flats are usually in the range of €250-400 per month, generally excluding utilities.

 

Find accommodation in Costa Rica with Erasmus Play

Among the top 5 student cities in Costa Rica are cities with very different profiles for university life, from urban environments with a wide range of academic offerings to smaller, quieter cities. San José, Heredia, San Ramón, Cartago and Alajuela stand out for their universities, educational quality and different costs of living, allowing each student to find the option that best suits their needs.

 

Before choosing a destination, it’s essential to evaluate not only the university, but also your budget, lifestyle, and the type of experience you’re looking for. From our online student accommodation platform, you can compare options in each city and organise your stay easily and securely, taking the first step towards your academic experience in Costa Rica.

Other guides on studying and living in Costa Rica

In the following guide, you can find more relevant information about this Latin American destination:

• Studying in Costa Rica