Desamparados, Costa Rica

With a population of over 223,000, Desamparados is no sleepy suburb. The third-largest city in Costa Rica, it's a bustling urban center where residents contend with heavy bureaucracy and environmental conflicts over the last remaining green spaces. While just 19.8% of the population is under 10 and 5.1% over 65, the overall demographics suggest a lively, working-age community. Those seeking an authentic Costa Rican experience, rather than an isolated beach town, may find Desamparados a good fit.