Located on the eastern coast of Negros Occidental Province fronting Tanon Strait, San Carlos City is 82 kilometers east of the provincial capital, Bacolod City and 167 kilometers north of Dumaguete City, the capital of Negros Oriental Province. 15 nautical miles across Tanon Strait is Toledo City of Cebu Province. To the north of the city is the town of Calatrava, to the south is Vallehermoso town and Canlaon City of Negros Oriental, and to the west is the town of Salvador Benedicto. The city has a fine harbor protected by the small island of Refugio.

It has a total land area of 451.5 square kilometer. Terrain is characterized by the narrow coastal flatland in the east that gently rises to rolling hills and mountains towards the western side of the city. Except for the poblacion, the city is mostly rural consisting of forest and farm lands. Farm products include peanut, sugar, rice, corn, and coconut. Fishing too is an important industry. Cottage industries include peanut processing, banana chips, fashion accessories, and handicraft making.

In terms of population, San Carlos is the 6th largest among the 13 cities of Negros Occidental. Most of the people speak Cebuano while the rest speak Ilonggo, Aklanon, and Tagalog. English is widely used in business, government and as a medium of instruction. In religion, Roman Catholics comprise the majority of the population while the rest belong to Iglesia Ni Cristo and other Protestant sects.

The city offers opportunities in food processing especially sugar-based foods, meat and fish processing. The manufacture of furniture, clothing and fashion accessories, jewelry, personal care and other consumer goods are encouraged. The establishment of commercial complexes and tourist facilities are welcomed in this city.

1. San Carlos Catholic Church
2. Alinsayawan Falls
3. Sipaway Island Whitesand Beach

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