Smallest Cities in San José

Top 31 cities ranked by smallest cities

Largest Cities Smallest Cities Most Dense Least Dense Highest Income Lowest Income Lowest Unemployment Highest Unemployment Lowest Poverty Highest Poverty Highest Rent Lowest Rent Most Educated Youngest Cities Oldest Cities Safest Cities Highest Crime Warmest Cities Coldest Cities Rainiest Cities Driest Cities

All Countries · Costa Rica · San José

Smallest Cities — San José

1 Mercedes 5,467

2 Salitrillos 5,738

3 Santa Ana 8,029

4 Santiago 8,292

5 Colón 9,687

6 Daniel Flores 10,028

7 Escazú 12,071

8 Granadilla 12,683

9 Sabanilla 13,251

10 Alajuelita 13,845

11 San Rafael Arriba 15,051

12 San Juan de Dios 15,469

13 Colima 15,875

14 Calle Blancos 20,710

15 Tejar 22,433

16 Patarrá 23,983

17 San Felipe 24,985

18 San Rafael 25,410

19 Aserrí 25,874

20 Guadalupe 26,005

21 San Juan 26,047

22 Ipís 26,669

23 San Rafael Abajo 27,419

24 San Pedro 27,477

25 San Miguel 28,827

26 Purral 30,034

27 San Vicente de Moravia 34,447

28 San Vicente 34,447

29 Curridabat 34,586

30 San Isidro 34,877

31 San José 335,007

The smallest cities in San José (with populations above 5,000) offer a different quality of life compared to major metropolitan areas. Mercedes has a population of just 5,467. These communities often feature lower costs of living, stronger neighborhood connections, and less congestion.

Small cities can offer significant advantages for residents seeking affordable housing, shorter commutes, and a close-knit community feel. Many serve as regional centers for surrounding rural areas, providing essential services while maintaining a small-town atmosphere.

Despite their smaller size, many of these cities have thriving local economies, good school systems, and access to outdoor recreation. They represent an alternative to the fast-paced lifestyle of major metropolitan areas.

Did You Know?

1. At 5,467 residents, Mercedes is smaller than a single large apartment complex in New York City.
2. Small cities (5,000-10,000) make up the majority of incorporated places in the United States.
3. Many of the smallest cities serve as county seats or regional service centers for surrounding rural communities.

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