The name Panama is said to mean “place of many fish.”
Of course, where there’s plenty of fish there’s plenty of water…
And Panama hit the jackpot when it comes to bodies of water—this little country boasts not one but two long ocean coasts…
On one side, you have the dramatic Pacific Ocean.
You’ll find sandy beaches and spectacular shows of nature as the waves batter the coast and throw spray (and sometimes surfers) up into the air. This side of the country’s coasts are well developed and connected to the modern capital city by a highway.
On the other side, you’ll find the relaxed, calming, and crystal blue waters of the Caribbean Sea.
This is the paradise coast… palm trees, powder white sand beaches, and plenty of Bob Marley and Jimmy Buffet drifting through the air. This Caribbean coast is much less developed and a bit harder to access, but that just proves it even more as an escape from the world…
You’re truly spoiled for choice when it comes to beaches here in Panama.
From hiking a volcano or snorkeling in the Caribbean… to shopping Prada and Louis Vuitton or setting out on a fishing charter, Panama will overwhelm you with all its many options for fun…
Got a question? Want to see us cover a particular topic? Write to me here.
Kat Kalashian,
Editor LIOS Confidential
Video Transcript
Intro
Hi, I’m Kat Kalashian for Live and Invest Overseas, and today I’m going to share three of Panama’s best options for expats and retirees.
Panama is a beautiful country known for its natural landscapes, rich traditions, and diverse lifestyle options. Because the country offers so many different environments, choosing exactly where to settle can sometimes feel overwhelming.
From first-world city living to rugged off-grid environments, from rustic countryside communities to upscale beach towns, Panama offers something that can appeal to almost everyone.
Some people prefer living immersed in local culture and learning Spanish, while others may feel more comfortable in places with large English-speaking expat communities.
You might enjoy evenings dining at upscale restaurants or exploring museums, or perhaps you prefer outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, water sports, baseball, or other adventure-filled pursuits.
Many people discover they can enjoy a bit of both in Panama. Despite being a relatively small country, this narrow isthmus offers dozens of appealing places for expats and retirees to call home.
Here are three locations that showcase the variety of lifestyles available in Panama.
San Francisco
The first option is the San Francisco neighborhood in Panama City.
Few neighborhoods in Panama City offer the same combination of convenience, comfort, and livability as San Francisco. It is located close to the downtown center and has a distinctly urban character, yet the atmosphere tends to be more relaxed and residential than other parts of the city.
San Francisco is an ideal place for those who want a quiet, residential lifestyle while still living in the heart of the capital.
The neighborhood is rapidly growing and is considered a middle- to upper-class area with a mix of houses and modern high-rise apartment buildings.
A couple living here might expect a monthly budget of roughly $3,500. While it is one of the more expensive areas of Panama City, many residents feel the quality of life justifies the cost.
Rent for a three-bedroom modern home can average around $2,000 per month, while apartments can often be found for about $1,500 or less. With patience and research on local listing sites or community groups, some rentals may even be available for $800 to $900 per month.
Dining out at a mid-range restaurant typically costs around $25 per person per meal. Groceries may average about $400 per month if you buy a mix of local and imported goods. Those who focus mostly on local markets and fresh fish can often reduce that to around $300 per month.
Transportation costs are also manageable. Budget about $100 per month if you own a car or around $65 if you rely on public transportation.
San Francisco is also conveniently located near two of Panama’s best private hospitals, which is an important consideration for many retirees.
Because the neighborhood is home to many professionals and international residents, English is widely spoken. Many locals studied abroad or use English regularly in their careers.
San Francisco is also known for being one of the safer neighborhoods in Panama City and is popular with expats and foreign residents.
Volcan
The second location is Volcán in the province of Chiriquí, situated about 1,400 meters above sea level.
Volcán offers much of the same natural beauty found in nearby Boquete, but it is generally quieter and less influenced by tourism and large expat populations.
The area is primarily an agricultural community with some of the most fertile land in the country. Dairy farms, horse ranches, and small livestock operations are common throughout the region.
A couple could live comfortably in Volcán on roughly $1,500 per month.
A two-bedroom, two-bath house can often be rented for around $500 per month. Utility costs are typically low because the highland climate rarely requires air conditioning or heating.
Groceries may average around $300 per month thanks to the abundance of fresh local produce available in nearby markets.
The nearest major medical facilities and surgical services are located in the city of David, about an hour’s drive away. This is an important factor for anyone prioritizing access to healthcare.
Volcán is an excellent choice for nature lovers. Two nearby parks—Volcán Barú National Park and La Amistad International Park—offer extensive jungle trails and outdoor exploration opportunities.
English is not yet widely spoken in this region, so having at least some basic Spanish will make daily life much easier.
Even so, the area has been attracting increasing numbers of retirees, families, and entrepreneurs. The local community is friendly and welcoming to newcomers.
Chame
The third location is Chame, a coastal district in western Panama within easy reach of Panama City.
Chame provides a quieter alternative to the heavily expat-populated beach areas around Coronado while offering more affordable living costs and real estate.
The name Chame refers both to the town itself and the surrounding district, which features diverse landscapes and striking natural scenery.
Residents can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities including kite surfing, bird watching, exploring national parks, canyon swimming, and cliff jumping.
One appealing aspect of living in Chame is the ability to choose between mountain living or beachside communities. It is possible to hike in the mountains and swim in the ocean on the same day.
The cost of living in Chame can vary widely depending on lifestyle choices. A couple could live comfortably on approximately $1,700 per month.
Most rental options are houses rather than apartments. Prices typically range from about $500 to $2,000 per month, with a modern mid-range home averaging around $800 monthly.
Healthcare services are available through both private and public clinics throughout the district for minor medical needs. You will also find laboratories, dentists, and pharmacies nearby.
Although English is spoken in many parts of Panama, Chame is primarily a Spanish-speaking area, so learning Spanish will make it easier to fully integrate into the local community.
