Perez Zeledon is all the surrounding areas of San Isidro de General; which is the closest city to Dominical at 45 minutes and offers most anything you would need. Tons of shops, large hardware stores, doctors, dentists, lawyers, a hospital and private clinic, restaurants, a mall and movie theater, mechanics, and even a Walmart, McDonalds, Subway, Pizza Hut, and KFC. This is one of the fastest growing cities in Central America and a great option for retirees or families raising kids.
There are all the amenities a retiree would want and private bi-lingual high schools for families. Every Thursday and Friday there is a farmer’s market with fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and cheeses brought from local area farmers and vendors. The climate of San Isidro is cooler than the beach towns and even night time temps in the 60’s and even much less depending on elevation.
There are homes and properties available with views of the valley and city lights, rural farms and houses in the surrounding mountains, and residents and lots in the center of town as well. Choose a city or country lifestyle, but still be close enough to the beaches. Chirripo, the highest peak in Costa Rica, is in PZ and the surround mountain communities are popular among expats seeking laid back lifestyles with cool higher elevation climates.