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Living in Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela

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Living in Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela: housing market data

What it costs and what the housing market is like here, compared to the rest of the country.

Typical rent

—/mo

Typical purchase

₡86 M

houses and apartments

Price per m²

₡437 K

built

32% cheaper than Costa Rica

Typical home

3 bd · 2 ba · 188 m²

14 active listings

71% with 3+ bedrooms Home lot size: 1,343 m²

Property type

Houses · 14 Apartments · 0

Quality of life

Aguas Zarcas is the fourth district of the canton of San Carlos, in Alajuela province. It covers a large area and is not the canton seat, which is Quesada. It is inland, and its official list of villages is long, which points to a mostly rural, spread-out district with several small settlements.

For sale, the listings cover houses, lots and land, farms, commercial spaces and buildings. Before moving, check how far a specific property is from services, whether water supply is public or private, how much road noise there is, and what state the access road is in during the rainy season.

Cost of living

Housing is usually the largest line in a budget, and it depends on property type, size and how far it sits from the main population centers. A house in a village and a farm with land are priced very differently, so compare like with like.

Add recurring costs: electricity, water, internet, and daily transport, which can weigh more in a dispersed district where errands often need a vehicle. Buyers should also budget for property tax and, in a condominium, monthly fees. When there are enough listings, this page shows above the typical prices for rent and purchase in this zone.

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Lifestyle

The pack describes an inland district made up of many villages and a few official neighborhoods, so daily life is likely closer to rural than urban. Expect to plan trips: groceries, banking, medical visits and government paperwork are often handled in larger centers.

The canton seat is the natural place for bigger errands, and being within the same canton keeps dealings with the local authority, the Municipalidad de San Carlos, simple. Day-to-day routines will depend on which village you choose and how you get around.

Climate and nature

Aguas Zarcas is not on the coast. In this part of Costa Rica's northern lowlands and mountain foothills, the year divides into a drier season and a rainy season, and rain tends to be more frequent on the slopes facing the Caribbean side than in the Pacific-facing dry areas of the country.

Plan for humidity and showers even outside the wettest months. When viewing a property, ask about drainage, moisture in walls and roofs, and whether the road or land is affected by heavy rain.

Economy and opportunities

The regional economy of San Carlos is generally tied to farming and livestock, along with services, commerce and some tourism. The listing of farms and commercial spaces in this district fits that profile.

Work in the San José metro area is a long commute from here, so remote work, local employment or a business tied to the land are the more realistic options. Likewise, the distance to the international airport matters for frequent travelers and for anyone who needs regular access to the capital for study or work.

Accessibility and location

Aguas Zarcas is district number 4 of the canton of San Carlos, in the province of Alajuela. Its postal code is 21004 and it covers 186.0 km² (71.8 sq mi).

It borders Venecia, Pital, La Palmera and Cutris, plus Toro Amarillo in the canton of Sarchí. In a straight line, it is 17.0 km (10.6 mi) from the canton seat, Quesada; 66.3 km (41.2 mi) from downtown San José; and 54.6 km (33.9 mi) from Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO).

Official neighborhoods: Latino, Manantial, Nazareth, San Bosco, San Gerardo Viento Fresco and Vistas de la Llanura. Official villages: Altamira, Alto Jiménez, Bijagual, Boca los Chiles, Cantarrana, Caño Negro, Cerrito, Cerro Cortés, Chiles, Concepción, Coopesanjuan and Danta, among others. These come from Costa Rica's official territorial division (Decree 44882-MGP). Real travel time depends on the hour and the road.

History

Aguas Zarcas, in the canton of San Carlos, Alajuela, Costa Rica, has experienced growth since its founding in 1940. The community has kept alive customs such as the patron saint festivals in honor of San Juan Bautista, celebrated every June 24. It is known for coffee production and agriculture, which have contributed to its economic development over the years. Its hospitable community attracts new residents seeking a rural yet modern lifestyle.

Tips

Drive the daily commute at different hours, including rush hour and after rain, to see what the trip really involves. Visit the property on a weekday and on a weekend to gauge noise and traffic.

Ask about water and utilities: who supplies them, whether there is a well or shared system, and request recent bills. If renting, insist on a written lease under Costa Rica's General Law of Urban and Suburban Leases, Law 7527. On Anuntico you can save listings in this zone and compare them over time.

In summary

Living in Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela, Costa Rica, is an ideal choice for those looking to establish their home or invest. This charming locality offers an impressive natural environment, surrounded by mountains and rivers, making it a perfect place for nature lovers. Aguas Zarcas is an inland, largely rural district of San Carlos with many villages and a mix of houses, land, farms and commercial properties. It suits buyers who want space, agricultural or business use, and are comfortable with a vehicle-based routine. It makes less sense for those who need to be close to the capital every day.

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For sale in Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela

Homes

See all
18
FOR SALE: BEAUTIFUL PROPERTY AND HOUSE IN AGUAS ZARCAS. in Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela — ₡ 82 000 000
FOR SALE: BEAUTIFUL PROPERTY AND HOUSE IN AGUAS ZARCAS. in Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela — ₡ 82 000 000 - Photo 2 of 18
FOR SALE: BEAUTIFUL PROPERTY AND HOUSE IN AGUAS ZARCAS. in Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela — ₡ 82 000 000 - Photo 3 of 18

₡ 82 000 000

over a month ago
3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms 2 Parking 187 Construction m² 187 Land m²

FOR SALE: BEAUTIFUL PROPERTY AND HOUSE IN AGUAS ZARCAS.

Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela

Real estate agent

Edwin Cruz

Experto Élite +940 Properties
9
Sale of 2 Houses + Lot and Warehouse in San Carlos, Alajuela. in Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela — $460,000
Sale of 2 Houses + Lot and Warehouse in San Carlos, Alajuela. in Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela — $460,000 - Photo 2 of 9
Sale of 2 Houses + Lot and Warehouse in San Carlos, Alajuela. in Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela — $460,000 - Photo 3 of 9

$460,000

over a month ago
4 Bedrooms 4 Bathrooms 3 Parking 1,560 Construction m² 4,438 Land m²

Sale of 2 Houses + Lot and Warehouse in San Carlos, Alajuela.

Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela

Real estate agent

Esteban Salas

Experto Élite +1K Properties
Esteban Salas
FOR SALE: BEAUTIFUL SMALLHOLDING IN AGUAS ZARCAS DE SAN CARLOS. in Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela — ₡ 58 000 000

₡ 58 000 000

over a month ago
2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom 3 Parking 190 Construction m² 2,526 Land m²

FOR SALE: BEAUTIFUL SMALLHOLDING IN AGUAS ZARCAS DE SAN CARLOS.

Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela

Real estate agent

Edwin Cruz

Experto Élite +940 Properties
12
Sale 2 Houses + Lot and Warehouse in San Carlos, Alajuela. RAH 26-285 in Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela — $480,000
Sale 2 Houses + Lot and Warehouse in San Carlos, Alajuela. RAH 26-285 in Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela — $480,000 - Photo 2 of 12
Sale 2 Houses + Lot and Warehouse in San Carlos, Alajuela. RAH 26-285 in Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela — $480,000 - Photo 3 of 12

$480,000

over a month ago
4 Bedrooms 4 Bathrooms 3 Parking 1,560 Construction m² 4,438 Land m²

Sale 2 Houses + Lot and Warehouse in San Carlos, Alajuela. RAH 26-285

Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela

Real estate agent

Lindsay Cascante

Experta Élite +1K Properties
Lindsay Cascante
22
Beautiful house in Aguas Zarcas, surrounded by nature and comfort in Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela — ₡ 82 000 000
Beautiful house in Aguas Zarcas, surrounded by nature and comfort in Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela — ₡ 82 000 000 - Photo 2 of 22
Beautiful house in Aguas Zarcas, surrounded by nature and comfort in Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela — ₡ 82 000 000 - Photo 3 of 22

₡ 82 000 000

over a month ago
3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms 2 Parking 187 Construction m² 187 Land m²

Beautiful house in Aguas Zarcas, surrounded by nature and comfort

Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela

Real estate agent

Gerardo Araya

Experto +210 Properties
22
Quinta in Los Chiles de Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos in Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela — $302,500
Quinta in Los Chiles de Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos in Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela — $302,500 - Photo 2 of 22
Quinta in Los Chiles de Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos in Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela — $302,500 - Photo 3 of 22

$302,500

over a month ago
4 Bedrooms 4 Bathrooms 4 Parking 320 Construction m² 11,623 Land m²

Quinta in Los Chiles de Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos

Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela

Real estate agent

Henry Solis

Experto +20 Properties
Henry Solis

Most viewed in Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela

FOR SALE: BEAUTIFUL SMALLHOLDING IN AGUAS ZARCAS DE SAN CARLOS. in Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela — ₡ 58 000 000

₡ 58 000 000

over a month ago
2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom 3 Parking 190 Construction m² 2,526 Land m²

FOR SALE: BEAUTIFUL SMALLHOLDING IN AGUAS ZARCAS DE SAN CARLOS.

Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela

Real estate agent

Edwin Cruz

Experto Élite +940 Properties
18
DELICIAS AGUAS ZARCAS - Beautiful Residence in Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela — ₡ 90 000 000
DELICIAS AGUAS ZARCAS - Beautiful Residence in Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela — ₡ 90 000 000 - Photo 2 of 18
DELICIAS AGUAS ZARCAS - Beautiful Residence in Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela — ₡ 90 000 000 - Photo 3 of 18

₡ 90 000 000

over a month ago
3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms 1 Parking 250 Construction m² 584 Land m²

DELICIAS AGUAS ZARCAS - Beautiful Residence

Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela

Real estate agent

MAR Bienes Raices

+20 Properties
22
Quinta in Los Chiles de Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos in Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela — $302,500
Quinta in Los Chiles de Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos in Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela — $302,500 - Photo 2 of 22
Quinta in Los Chiles de Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos in Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela — $302,500 - Photo 3 of 22

$302,500

over a month ago
4 Bedrooms 4 Bathrooms 4 Parking 320 Construction m² 11,623 Land m²

Quinta in Los Chiles de Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos

Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela

Real estate agent

Henry Solis

Experto +20 Properties
Henry Solis
10
AGUAS ZARCAS - HOUSE in Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela — ₡ 45 000 000
AGUAS ZARCAS - HOUSE in Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela — ₡ 45 000 000 - Photo 2 of 10
AGUAS ZARCAS - HOUSE in Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela — ₡ 45 000 000 - Photo 3 of 10

₡ 45 000 000

over a month ago
3 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

AGUAS ZARCAS - HOUSE

Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela

Real estate agent

MAR Bienes Raices

+20 Properties
12
CONCEPCION AGUAS ZARCAS - HOUSE in Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela — ₡ 93 000 000
CONCEPCION AGUAS ZARCAS - HOUSE in Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela — ₡ 93 000 000 - Photo 2 of 12
CONCEPCION AGUAS ZARCAS - HOUSE in Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela — ₡ 93 000 000 - Photo 3 of 12

₡ 93 000 000

over a month ago
3 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom 3 Parking 2,600 Land m²

CONCEPCION AGUAS ZARCAS - HOUSE

Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela

Real estate agent

MAR Bienes Raices

+20 Properties
12
House for Sale in Agua Zarcas, Barrio Manantial in Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela — ₡ 27 000 000
House for Sale in Agua Zarcas, Barrio Manantial in Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela — ₡ 27 000 000 - Photo 2 of 12
House for Sale in Agua Zarcas, Barrio Manantial in Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela — ₡ 27 000 000 - Photo 3 of 12

₡ 27 000 000

over a month ago
2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom 2 Parking 65 Construction m² 203 Land m²

House for Sale in Agua Zarcas, Barrio Manantial

Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela

Private party

Frequently asked questions

Homes For Sale

How much does it cost to buy a house in Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela?

Houses for sale in Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela range from ₡27,000,000 to ₡220,800,000, averaging ₡103,083,571. Prices vary by location, size and condition.

Why buy a house to live in Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela?

Buying a house in Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela gives you more space, privacy and the chance to build equity. Listings available now: 14.

Real estate companies

HELCOR inmobiliaria

HELCOR inmobiliaria

HELCOR inmobiliaria
Experto Élite
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Ulloa, Heredia

42 +2K Properties
Member since 2024
Solución Total r y e Internacional

Solución Total r y e Internacional

Experto Élite
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22 +940 Properties
Member since 2021
GIGA Real State

GIGA Real State

Experto
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540 +210 Properties
Member since 2025
Derealesa Bienes Raices

Derealesa Bienes Raices

Experto
Real Estate Agencies

San Francisco de Dos Ríos, San José

516 +160 Properties
Member since 2014
Montero Realty Group

Montero Realty Group

Experta
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Buenos Aires, Palmares, Alajuela

+140 Properties
Member since 2026
Inmobiliaria CDJ

Inmobiliaria CDJ

Experto
Real Estate Agencies

Mata Redonda, San José

+140 Properties
Member since 2026

Other ways to live here

Districts to live near Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela

One of the most affordable areas in San Carlos · ranked 7 of 12

Market prices in Aguas Zarcas, San Carlos, Alajuela

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