Living in Panama!
- Playa Blanca
- Aug 3, 2020
- 3 min read
Spend Less & Enjoy More in Panama

Panama stands out among the world’s expat destinations because it offers solid infrastructure and First World amenities…close to North America.
And when it comes to value and variety, Panama can’t be beat. Here, you really get what you pay for…never less. A little money can buy you a lot of luxury. And even if you’re living on a pension, life here is easy, breezy, and fun. There are parts of Panama where one can live on $1,000 a month, all told. Places where you’ll find few cons and plenty of pros, from pretty views to friendly locals. Where you feel miles away from the First World capital—though, truly, the country is so small, you’re never far from the city. Places where you can live a good life. Take for example Panama’s Los Santos or Herrera provinces…there are miles of coastline, beaches varying from dark to light sand, medical facilities and homes costing as little as $60,000.
But what if you’re looking for more? Something closer to the California lifestyle you may have dreamed of (or had)…a lifestyle that may not be sustainable due to rising costs or a decrease in monthly income. Panama can offer you that, too. There are upscale areas where life isn’t about roughing it in the developing world. Where you won’t find any Peace Corps volunteers, but rather Panamanians and expats who came in search of a comfortable, convenient environment. Simply put, Panama has it all…and the choice is entirely yours. You Call This A Third World Country? With outstanding growth over the past five years, Panama’s cities and hubs have begun to attract everything from golf clubs and beach resorts to shopping plazas, grocery stores, restaurants, clinics, and more. And nearly everywhere you go, there’s high-speed internet, reliable power, and water you can drink straight from the tap. Cable television and cellular service are ubiquitous, the roads are the best in the region, and every year new investment leads to improved conditions.
That’s all thanks to Panama’s government. Of course, no government administration in the world is without its flaws and scandals. But in Panama, the government is stable. And consistent—supporting civil liberties, pro-business policies, and foreigner friendly laws. No other country in the region can boast such a steady, dependable track record.

Panama Has Cities, Mountains, Beaches & More
Despite Panama’s tiny size, it’s one of the most diverse countries you’ll find. The incredibly long coastlines—Pacific and Caribbean—offer endless opportunities for waterside living…not to mention fishing, scuba diving, surfing, and more. Mountain hamlets like Boquete and El Valle boast cooler climes than you’d expect this far south of the border. There are rural areas for farm-loving types, tropical rainforests everywhere you look, and hundreds of islands seemingly adrift in bright blue waters.
Though tourism is a burgeoning industry, Panama has long been a business destination. Panamanians are accustomed to foreigners—and have been since the Panama Canal was completed in 1914. There isn’t the envy or racial tension you might find in other economically deprived areas where “wealthy expats” have swept in. Perhaps because Panama is a land of opportunity, and locals who strive to improve their lot can go far.
Indeed, Panama’s prosperity is astounding to those who arrive anticipating Third-World conditions. Panama City boasts an ever-changing skyline reminiscent of Hong Kong…growing banking and business sectors…and too many cultural and entertainment options to choose from. Locals from different walks of life drive new cars and carry smart phones. Malls and shopping plazas are full, full, full…every day.
Lower Your Cost of Living in Panama Choose one of Panama’s trendiest areas…or retire to your dream home in the lush green countryside. No matter where in the country you go, you’re likely to find that your cost of living goes down (not to mention your blood pressure) without much effort. This is in large part due to Panama’s quality, affordable healthcare. Back home, you may spend hundreds of dollars a month on everything from car and health insurance…to doctor and dental consults…to medication. But most expats in Panama find these things are significantly cheaper.
Though apartments in Panama City rent for $800 to $1500 a month, there are locations where savvy expats have discovered they can rent for $300 to $500 a month. Countrywide, water bills are typically under $20 a month. You can buy hundreds of minutes for your cell phone for $5. And Panama brand beers cost around $0.50 each…at upscale supermarkets that sell every brand you remember from back home, plus all the inexpensive regional ones.
No matter what your taste or budget, you’ll find that Panama offers quality, comfort, and convenience.
Hi Warren. Tony (and Karin) from Calibre Yachts on Vancouver Island. We are done with this cold weather! Thinking seriously of making an exploratory 2 week trip trip in Oct/Nov with the potential objective of relocating to Panama. Everything we have read looks inviting. We are renting a home in Mexico Dec, Jan and Feb, but don't feel comfortable about settling there.
When is the best time to twist your arm for a 20 minute GoogleMeet so we can talk and then plan.
Warm regards, Tony
Cell 250 893-6133
email Tony@calibreyachts.com or antonroberts007@gmail.com
Well hello there como esta Yo soy Miguel and I saw on ur page expats can find bargain rentals for 3-500 usd per month? Can u tell me please where is this... And can i find cheap rentals inland from Playa Blanco or Coronado proper? thanks in advance n may God bless all ur endeavors
Mike 😜