At a Glance
Cost of Living
moderate
Safety
moderate
English Level
moderate
Climate
Tropical - hot and humid year-round
Essentials
Cost of Living
Panama offers excellent value with costs 30-50% lower than the US. Living comfortably in Panama City: $2,000-2,500/month. Smaller towns like Boquete or Coronado: $1,500-2,000/month. Healthcare dramatically cheaper.
Healthcare
Panama has excellent healthcare at 25-50% of US costs. Several internationally-accredited hospitals in Panama City. Many doctors trained in US. Health insurance available for $100-200/month under age 64.
Housing
Modern apartments with amenities widely available. Panama City: $800-1,500 for 1BR. Boquete/Coronado: $700-1,200. Buying property straightforward for foreigners with same rights as citizens.
Banking
Panama is a banking hub using US dollar. Opening account straightforward with passport and proof of address. Many expats use US banks plus local account. Stable, regulated banking system.
Lifestyle
Language
Spanish is official language. English widely spoken in business, tourism, and expat areas. Basic Spanish very helpful for daily life. Many successful expats with minimal Spanish.
Working Remotely
Panama is excellent for remote workers with fast fiber internet, modern coworking spaces, and new Digital Nomad visa. Territorial tax system means zero tax on foreign income.
Transportation
Panama City has modern metro and Uber. Outside the capital, car essential. Buying car straightforward for residents. Gas ~$3.50-4/gallon. Driving easier than most Latin America.
Expat Community
Large, welcoming expat communities especially in Panama City, Boquete, and Coronado. Active organizations, clubs, and meetups. Easy to make friends and get support.
Food & Dining
Panamanian food is hearty with rice, beans, plantains, and meat. Mix of indigenous, Spanish, Afro-Caribbean influences. Excellent seafood. International cuisine abundant in Panama City.
More Topics
Safety
Panama is one of Latin America's safest countries. Expat areas very secure with gated communities and 24/7 security. Petty crime exists but violent crime rare. Common sense precautions sufficient.
Climate & Weather
Tropical climate with hot, humid weather year-round in most areas. Dry season (Dec-April) and rainy season (May-Nov). Mountain towns like Boquete offer cooler spring-like weather.
Taxes
Panama has territorial tax system - only Panama-source income taxed. Foreign income (pensions, remote work) not taxed. US citizens still file with IRS. Property taxes very low.
Culture & Lifestyle
Panamanian culture is warm, welcoming, and heavily influenced by US proximity. Relaxed pace of life, strong family values, and "tranquilo" attitude. Mix of indigenous, Spanish, Afro-Caribbean influences.
Education
International schools available in Panama City for expat children. Public schools Spanish-only. Private schools range from $300-1,500/month. University options available.
Family Life
Panama is family-friendly with outdoor activities, beaches, and welcoming culture. Childcare affordable ($300-600/month). International schools expensive. Safe communities exist.
Questions
Is Panama's healthcare really good? What are the actual costs for expats?
What is the real monthly cost of living in Panama for a retired couple?
What are the main differences between living in Panama City vs Boquete?
Should I learn Spanish before moving to Panama?