There has been so much interest in our cost of living reports that I decided to give this subject its own page.
What does it cost to live in Panama? Can you really live on $2000/month? $1000/month? $500/month? Yes you can. I just depends on how and where you want to live, and what makes you happy. If you live in Panama City, it’s going to be more expensive. If you want to live on less you can choose a more rural area, a smaller house, public transportation, and only local food. Entire Panamanian families often live on less than $1000/month.
We live in David, the second largest city. Our basic monthly expenses are around $1200/month – rent, food, utilities, etc. This does not include travel, medical/dental expenses, or other one time expenses. For a detailed accounting of how we live and what it costs, see the posts below.
February, 2013
April, 2013
June, 2013
July 2013
September 2013
January 2014
October 2014
November 2014
I will continue to write occasional cost of living reports so stay tuned. We understand how important this information is to many people. It was very important to us as well when we were making the decision to move here.
The Panama Adventure 
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Some really interesting insects!!!!! I love your blog,, one question I need info on hotels,, around 30 to 50 dollars night,, I intend to be there on vacation for 3 weeks ,, I want to explore and find my paradise. I’d like to see the mountains first ,, then the beach . And maybe some in between like not too far from city and markets and hospitals. If I could find a hotel not too expensive I’d be happy. Thanks in advance,, and keep up the good work ,, excellent work with the blog. David.
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Hmmm… I don’t have a lot of experience with hotels here. David is the main place for markets and hospitals. There is none of that at the beach, and not too much in the mountains though there are communities with basic necessities. When we visited we did the inexpensive thing too and stayed in hostels which worked out great for us. We met fun people, and also saved by using the community kitchen to cook rather than eating out all the time. http://www.chambresenville.info/english/index.html and http://www.bambuhostel.com/ are the ones we stayed at, but certainly not the only ones in the area.
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Wow…that’s amazing. I live in Belize…and I’d say my cost of living…just me is at least double that. Thanks for the info…I like it.
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I’ve heard Belize is more expensive, maybe because expats have been moving there for a long time? I hope you are enjoying your life there though. Even here, you could spend a lot more if you want to, or less if you want to live a more simple life.
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Hi Kris! I just wanted to let you know how much my husband and I enjoy reading about you and your hubby’s life in Panama. My husband retired in 2010 and we’ve been thinking about moving out of country for the last 2 years. We’re planning our first trip to Panama next fall. Do you do any email correspondence? OMG….how could I forget. Your pictures are AMAZING! Thank you so much for sharing 😎
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Thank you so much for the kind words about my blog and pictures! 🙂 Sure, I’d be happy to talk by email. I’ll send you a note
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Hi, I have found your blog to be very interesting. I’m wondering if you have posted about the climate and crime in Panama, or if not, if you have any comments on both.
We thought of Panama when we decided to leave the US, but chose Costa Rica instead. We live in the mountains as we found the coast to be too hot in the ‘dry’ season (Dec-May).
As for crime, there are many parts of Costa Rica where houses don’t have bars or “decorative” grills on the windows, is it the same in Panama?
Thanks, Dana
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Thank you, glad you enjoy the blog 🙂
The climate at sea level is warm and humid (average low 75- high 88 degrees, sometimes more in dry season). We like it but many find it too hot. The higher you go in the mountains the cooler it is, but sometimes it is more humid with more rain, and maybe more wind. It’s tricky to find the right spot up there because one side of the mountain can be quite different from another.
As for crime, we feel safer here than we did in the US. Of course there are problem areas to avoid and you have to use common sense like anywhere, but there seem to be few problems. Most of the crime is petty, crimes of opportunity, theft, etc. Most people have security covers on windows and doors, and gates around the property (keeps out the neighbor’s dogs and roosters). You will see armed security people everywhere, at banks, doors of businesses, in parking lots, on street corners, etc. At first this felt upsetting but I soon realized that very little happens because there is so much security everywhere. I think there were enough violent problems in the recent past, well remembered by many, and people now do NOT want any problems!
We feel especially lucky because we are in a nice quiet neighborhood with only one way in, and we have friendly relationships with our neighbors, some of whom are retired and home a lot. If you come here the dogs will all go nuts, the neighbors will notice you, and if you stop someone will ask you what you are doing here.
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I really can’t wait to retire in June. I plan on moving to David in July. I’ve already started selling my big furniture and my house. I’m just moving with what will fit in my suitcases. Thanks for all the useful information. It helps me feel better about moving by myself.
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How exciting! best of luck with everything. I feel more sense of community and belonging here than I did in the US. I hope it is the same for you. Maybe we’ll meet in person in a few months 🙂
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Trish, did you ever move to David, and do you have any recommendations for others doing it solo?
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That would be nice to meet in person 🙂
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Excellent 🙂 Let me know when you’re here and we’ll get together.
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Love reading your blogs. My husband and I are in the process of getting ready for early retirement in 5 years. Panama is my top pick so far. I’ve looked at others and will visit them. My concern is medical care. I’ve suffered a massive heart attack and I just turned 50. Is there high quality care in Panama for someone like me? I’ve seen a lot of different countries claim good medical care but claiming and actually having it is a difference that could kill. At some point, I’m sure I’ll have to have bypass. Really appreciate any info that you may have or heard of.
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Thanks for the kind words about my blog 🙂 Of course you have to make your own decisions about health care, but in my opinion I’d rather have care here than in the US. There is state of the art care available in Panama City. We’re in David where I have been very impressed with what I have seen. My husband’s mother was here for the first 6 months and saw a number of doctors. She was treated with kindness, respect, and all the time she needed and was helped with a few issues that she had been unable to resolve in years in the US. I would suggest you come and visit and go see some doctors for consultations and see how it feels to you. Tell them your history and ask them how they would take care of you. Another consideration – medicare will not cover you here. Care here is much less costly but still, with a complicated history you might want to research insurance options.
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Thank you for getting back to me so quickly. I will take your advice and research insurance and also talk to the doctors when we are ready to make our first trip. You have given me plenty to think about and will immediately start making and saving a list of questions to ask. 🙂
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http://thepanamaadventure.com/links You might find the first couple links on this page helpful. They are forums for people living here or asking about living here. Many have questions about health care and insurance options, so you might find some useful answers.
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Thank you. Went to work reading all I can right away. Lots of topics of interest and information. Your the first person I’ve ever reached out to in these forums and I’m greatful for the time you’ve put into it.
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Nice thing about being retired, you have more free time 🙂
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Laurie, my husband and I are moving to Pedasi on 27 JUlY 2017. Have been in Boquete but I prefer heat! Would love to talk to you, I have had 2 major strokes in the last 5 years and am determined to go on. No permanent damage, thank God. They say I am a “ticking time bomb” but I don’t believe it. Any info about health care and/or providers would be much appreciated!! Not ready to go down without a fight yet!!! Thanks, Linda Michaud. (age 66)
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I live in David and am not familiar with what is available in the Pedasi area. Ask around when you get there. I think the closest hospital might be in Santiago, but I’m not sure. Fortunately we are both healthy so have chosen to put money aside for emergencies and forgo insurance so I’m not a good source of information on that. Most people I know have bought international insurance if they want coverage. I would suggest that you talk to expats in Pedasi and get some recommendations, and then establish a relationship with a doctor. If you have a problem it would be much better to have a doctor you can call on. If you take medications you will also need to find out how to cover this need. Myself, I am happy to rely on health care here. Doctors aren’t buried in paperwork and can actually practice medicine, and are competent and caring. And, if you need the latest and greatest of modern medicine it’s probably available in Panama City. I have found the better quality food and improved lifestyle has positively impacted my health, and I hope that is the case for you too.
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Hi Kris! I have so enjoyed reading your posts! Yours is the first one I’ve read that makes me feel “at home”! What I mean is, you sound like a regular person, enjoying life, and getting the most out of it that you can. My husband and I are hoping to visit Panama soon, and would like to see David, with the thought of a possible retirement here in future. I would love to meet with you if possible. You have inspired me to feel good about the world again – life has been a little rough lately! Please feel free to email me. I would love to “visit”!
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Thank you so much! I’m glad you enjoy the blog.
Stand by, and email is on its way…
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Hi Chris, We are moving to our new home in Pedasi on 27July 2017 (soon). I have had 2 major strokes (no permanent damage thank god) but not willing to go down without a fight!! Can you recommend a good insurance company or hospital?? I have some coverage from Canada, but if the worst happens, do you have any advice? Have ordered my hubby to just roll me into the ocean!! Thanks, Linda , age 66.
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Hello Kris,
I enjoyed reading your blog and the plethora of information and details. I have been thinking of moving to Panama for a couple of years now. I have been living the expat life for about 5 years now living in Europe, The Caribbean, and The Middle East. I have enjoyed it all but I am looking for a more laid back and affordable lifestyle for me and my children. I am actually retired from the US military and receive a pension so I know that I can apply for the retirement VISA from all the research I have conducted. Panama is definitely my number one choice. Is there anything else you could tell me about moving there with my children. Maybe some links or contacts so that I maybe can start researching rentals and prices. Thank you so much
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Thanks, glad you enjoy the blog. http://www.panamaforreal.com. You may find this site helpful. It is done by a young guy in Panama City with kids. Do you know where in Panama you plan to settle? He also has info on many different areas and is adding more all the time.
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Such help information.
Thank you so much!
🙂
Linda
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My pleasure 🙂
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My wife and I will be visiting Panama in about 2 weeks. I have a good friend that lives in Coronado, but after seeing your pictures and reading your blog we have decided to start our retirement research in the David/Boquete area. My wife loves the beach, but I prefer higher ground and prefer to “visit” the beach.
Thanks for all the great info and exuberance.
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Oh wow, I hope I have changed your mind in the right direction. When you visit though, you’ll know how it feels to you. It’s an interesting country because there are so many different options. The whole country is beautiful but I think Chiriqui province is the most beautiful of all. If you want to get together for a chat while you’re here just let me know 🙂
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Hi Kris –
Am enjoying your blog very much. You provide the basic information I think most of us want & need about visiting Panama. My wife & I visited about 3 years ago for three weeks. Hope to return next May. We previously thought about living there but now would prefer to split our time with May-Oct in the Pacific NW & winters down there. Perhaps you have said elsewhere, but how long can we stay in country on a visit’s visa, 90 days? Could we cross border to Costa Rica and then return to Panama?
We enjoyed El Valle (nice locals & expats) as well as Boquette. From what I am reading, perhaps David weather & temps might be a good fit. Will see on next visit. Thanks again for your work of love on your blog. We can certainly tell that you are very happy in Panama.
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Thank you! I am glad you enjoy the blog.
You can stay for 180 days as a tourist, but if you drive your license is good for 90 days. Yes you can go to Costa Rica, get your passport stamped and you are good for another 180 or 90 days. I have written a blog post about crossing the border so if you do this check it out and also find out the latest info (requirements tend to change without notice sometimes). People do this all the time so if you have what you need with you, you should be fine.
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Hi
Yes I discovered your discussion of your trip to border After I sent message! Sounded like another opportunity to “go with flow” & be patient. I keep reading your blog & some of those you link regularly & find them very helpful. Again enjoy your trip.
J.P
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Excellent, and thank you
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Thank you for this article…..very interesting for me. I´m thinking of living in Panama….just me and 17yo daughter. I would like to ask you, is it a safe country for single women? Which areas are safe and which are no go areas? I´d love to hear your reply when you have time during your travels! thanks!
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Hi and thanks for visiting my blog. Yes, I think Panama is safe. Of course like anywhere in the world it depends on how and where you live. Colon is generally considered a less safe area, as are some parts of Panama City. Thee are more specific recommendations depending on where exactly you end up. It helps a lot if you speak some Spanish and make friends with your neighbors because they will look out for you and advise you better than anyone.
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How much Spanish does a person need to get by? High School Spanish? I’m almost a senior now but am going to invest in Rosetta Stone, I think.
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A lot depends on where you are. If you are in Coronado, Boquete, Panama City, etc where there are lots of expats you can get by with very little. Other places it will be more difficult. I think at the minimum you need to be able to ask directions, questions, know your numbers for money transactions, etc. But there more you know, the more you can develop relationships with the locals which IMO is the most rewarding part of being here.
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There is a service that Amazon has. It’s called Amazon prime instant video. And the particular video that I’ve watched showing Panama is called “Seasoned Traveler – Panama”. Is there anyway you could watch on Amazon prime instant video this video and give me your opinion as to the its authenticity?
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No, sorry, I don’t have Amazon Prime so I can’t see it unless I pay for it.
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Hi Chris I also love your blog it’s very informative,, I haven’t heard anyone speaking of the cost of air line tickets,, prices compared to those of usa,, if I lived in panama and wanted to fly to Hong Kong or the phillippines , would the ticket be cheaper in panama or about the same?? The reason I ask is I met a lady in the phillippines. But I don’t want to retire there ,, it’s affordable but it is wayyyyyyyyy to far from usa,,
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Thanks, glad you enjoy the blog. I’m sorry I can’t help you with airline ticket prices though since I have only flown between here and the US. There must be info in the internet though. Google seems to find pretty much anything you ask.
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great posts and information. So many different types of questions/answers which make this even more beneficial. So my question is this. My wife is concerned that if we relocate to Panama that she may not be able to continue her Artisan hobby doing mosaics. She mostly uses old cups, plates and colored tile to create designs on pots/planters, table tops, stepping stones. Have you seen other people that do mosaics or areas where there are active artisans?
Thanks
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Hi and thanks, glad you find the blog useful.
I haven’t looked into making or selling anything here so I don’t know much. I know there is a Tuesday Market in Boquete where locals and expats sell various things, many of them things like your wife’s work. We also happened upon a market in Coronado when we visited there, so I have a feeling this sort of thing goes on in a number of areas. You might ask on the Facebook group or some of the forums listed on my website http://www.thepanamaadventure.com/links.html#Facebook
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I live near Boquete Panama in the mountains of Chiriqui Province. The people are mostly friendly and helpful. If you speak even a little Spanish, they will try to help you. Big smiles from most folks. Lots of very poor people but they have family and faith and this is what is important to them. I rent a house which is relatively small with 2 bedroom, 2 bath, furnished, with hot water(not necessarily in houses here) for 450 a month.
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It sounds like it is working out well for you, and I am so glad to hear you are enjoying your experience here. Thanks for stopping by the blog and taking the time to comment 🙂
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As an American, living here in Panama going on 18yrs and as a retired person
my stay here is very enjoyable and relaxing. I would tell anyone that plans on
moving here to try and learn the basics of Spanish as this is the principal language
here. Yes they do have english speaking persons in local banks, and business’s
but they are few.
My wife is Panamanien, and she learned english from me and I learned spanish
from her so we communicate with the community very well.
Living here in the outskirts of David Chiriqui, San Pable Viejo to be exact, Bus stops
in front of the homes here and the trip to David is about 20 minutes at a cost of
70 cents one way, and that is pretty cheap. A taxi costs about 7dlrs.
Study about Panama before coming to live, visit and get familiar with the area in
which you want to live, and enjoy.
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Thanks for stopping by and leaving a comment. I so agree. It is really important to learn Spanish so you can communicate.
I know where San Pablo is. I have biked out that way occasionally. Nice area
Very good advice for everyone, thanks 🙂
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Great blog post! I noticed you stopped doing the monthly cost reports. Have you noticed a change over the last year?
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I should do another cost of living report. It helps us know what we are doing too. First though, I have to stay put for a month 😀 Prices are always going up everywhere but I haven’t noticed anything dramatic here. Cable is up a couple dollars but other fixed expenses are the same. Food prices maybe be up a bit here and there but nothing major. I’d say if there are changes they are minor and life here is still very affordable for us.
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Thanks for responding! You mentioned that you have a 5mb internet plan, is there a faster plan? Also, I’m concerned with safety for same sex partners, what are your thoughts on this?
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Ours is the mid range of three plans, if my memory serves. You might check http://www.chiriquichatter.net he is very tech savvy and talks about Cable Onda now and then, the internet provider we both use.
I think same sex couples are well accepted here. No couples are affectionate in public, but if you behave with the usual decorum you should be fine. People here are much more accepting Of differences of color, religion, personal preferences, etc., all those things we get judged on so much in the US. This was a very pleasant surprise to me, and I feel more accepted here than I did in the US.
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Honestly, I know that folks are always polite and think gringos are crazy. I am married to a lady and have been for 41 years plus some. I think usual decorum for you would be fine. I don’t like to express an opinion here as I am also polite. I believe sex outside of marriage is immoral and it is indeed dangerous in this world. I think that what you are talking about is best left in the closet and is unacceptable to me. Gay sex is sick and sinful. But I accept people the way they are and hope they can manage their way through life uneventful.
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Yet, you do go ahead and express an opinion, one that is bigoted, judgmental, and unacceptable in my blog space.
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Thanks for your responses Kris (both to me and to Ross). When will people learn to just live and let live?!?!
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You’re welcome.
It is sad when people live with such negativity in their hearts.
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Hi Cris… thanks for your very helpful & informative blog. Am tasked with retirement planning for my sister in Glendora,CA. My top recommendation is Panama. We are both past 63 yrs old. She is a U.S citizen & I am not. She is receiving a monthly pension of 2K+. She insist that I will join her in Panama if ever. I am not a U.S citizen (Asian presently working & based in the Middle East). I am curious if she could include me to move & avail with a “pensionada” program?
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I don’t know. You need guaranteed income of $1250 to qualify as a couple so hers would more than cover that, but I don’t know if a brother and sister would be considered as a couple. That’s a question for a lawyer. http://kraemerlaw.com/en/ We worked with him and were very happy.
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Dear Cris, Thanks for your usual informative & prompt reply. Anyway, my Sister and myself agreed that your place is an ideal quiet retirement location. As an option, we are looking to buy a house with a max budget of US$ 150K (in your area – Chiriqui). Is this amount suitable for a 2-bedroom house? A 15 year old house is acceptable to us. Also, may I know the updated rent prices in your area? Is it acceptable for a house owner to lease the house for a short term of say 6 months?
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Yes, you can buy a very comfortable house for that amount. But, I strongly strongly suggest you rent for at least a year before buying anything. Then you can be sure life here works for you, will have contacts in the area and have a much better idea of fair prices. I would guess rents here to be $400-700 depending on area, condition, furnished or not. You should talk with Eduardo about housing since that’s his business and he knows way more than I do. https://findingmyselfinpanama.wordpress.com/2015/04/09/video-of-ed-horna-rental-property-available-in-davidboquete/
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Dear Cris, Thanks for sharing us very useful tips & referrals. Definitely, we will avail of the services you had recommended (i.e. lawyer & housing rental). My Sister’s family in the U.S. are now in the planning stage to visit Panama. Again, big thanks!
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You’re welcome
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Is there a recommended hotel on the beach near David? maybe $75 a nite?
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The nearest beach is La Barqueta and the resort there is Las Olas. I’m sure you can find them on google and check prices. There is another resort at Las Lajas beach. The only other area you are likely to find something is Boca Chica, but that is more islands than beach. Prices are likely to be higher now during tourist season, and lower during “green season” aka rainy season.
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We plan on going May 23rd thru June 3rd. I hope this is not rainy season
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Rainy season should have started, hopefully. Rains should come back sometime in April, or since they are expecting a longer dry season, maybe early May. Otherwise it’s going to be dry, brown, and very hot at the beach.
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Kris,
Thanks for providing updates on your blog! Quick question though, what are the requirements for buying a house in Panama? I currently live in Miami, FL. I have always though about buying something in my Native Nicaragua and know the requirements but for Panama I’m clueless…hehehe. Any advice would be much appreciated.
~ Edgar U
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Hi Edgar and thanks, glad you enjoy the blog. I’m sorry though. I don’t know much about buying a house here since we rent ours.
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Kris,
Thanks for the quick reply! I will continue reading your blog and thanks for the timely updates.
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You’re very welcome 🙂
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Hi Kris, My name is Charles Areson and my wife Inna and I are here at the Little Italy B&B out on the way from David to Conception. We will be returning to the U.K. next Tues. – 22 Nov. Would like to talk & meet with you if possible. We went to David today by bus, saw the park (in the rain) & had a good lunch at a local restaurant. We do have a phone now so can make connection that way if appropriate. Hope to hear from you quickly. Thanks and shalom.
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Hi Charles! I’ll email you and we will see what we can work out
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I am enjoying your blog very much. Jon in NYC
Trying to decide if I would need to be married to enjoy your lifestyle down there or not.
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Hey Jon in NYC, that’s where I’m from, though I haven’t lived there for a long time. Thanks, glad you enjoy the blog.
I don’t think you would need to be married. There are a lot of single expats. And, if you are interested in dating the Panamanian women are absolutely beautiful.
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Kris,
My daughter, her 10 year old son and I will be in Panama for 12 days in August doing in person reconizance of areas to live and work within about an hour of Panama City.
Can you recommend a knowledgeable realtor or expat to serve as guide (with car)?
I am retired, she is a professional therapist and school counselor and wants to work. Ira will be in school and she’s researching those options.
You may email me privately if best for you.
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First, research work in Panama. Health care professions aren’t open to foreigners.
I live on the other side of the country. Maybe Marc Vargas can help https://www.facebook.com/guideinpanama1. Or Luis Arce https://blog.thepanamaadventure.com/2017/06/05/good-people-to-know-in-panama/
There is a Facebook group – Expats in Panama. Schools have been discussed there.
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Hello Kris:
Thank you for the COL update. I am contemplating retirement in Panama in a year or two. I currently live in Tennessee. Planning a trip to Panama later this year. I appreciate all the information you have provided on your blog.
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Thanks! so glad you find the blog and this post helpful. I hope you enjoy your visit here and your future works out well for you.
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I love your blogs!! I my dream is to retire in Panama..when is the best time to visit?? Do I have to have the VACCINE? How can I reach you?
B well linda
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Thanks! Anytime, but Dry season is Dec – April. Depending on where you want to go this might affect your plans. Right now, if you are unvaccinated and from the USA you need to quarantine for 3 days when you arrive. But this can change depending on what’s going on. Contact Me info@thePanamaAdventure.com
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Cost of living is relative to each individual , You might like to eat out 2-3 times a week and I might just once a week .You might want a twice a week maid and I might prefer once a month , maybe I like wine and you don’t drink at all ,the best thing to do is list how much things cost where you live ( David ) for example such as rent , utilities , milk and eggs , shopping at markets vs big store chains .
I am planning on going to Panama next year and I guarantee I can live cheaper than most
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Yes exactly, which is why I have listed our actual expenses.
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