Retiring in Panama
The Best Cities and Towns for Expats Looking for Affordable Living and a Vibrant Community



Panama is quickly becoming a top destination for retirees from around the world. With its beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and affordable cost of living, Panama offers an ideal retirement destination for those looking for a change of pace. In this article, we will explore some of the best cities and towns for expats to retire in Panama, as well as the affordability of living there, the expat communities, and the pensionado program.
Firstly, one of the most popular destinations for retirees in Panama is Boquete. Located in the Chiriquí province, Boquete is a charming town nestled in the mountains, known for its cool climate, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant expat community. The town has a range of amenities and attractions, including restaurants, cafes, hiking trails, and golf courses, making it an ideal place for those who want to stay active and engaged in their retirement.
Secondly, another popular destination for retirees in Panama is Coronado. This beachfront town is located just an hour outside of Panama City, and is known for its beautiful beaches, warm climate, and close proximity to the city. With a large expat community and a range of amenities, including grocery stores, restaurants, and medical facilities, Coronado is an ideal place for those who want to live near the beach while still having access to modern conveniences.
Thirdly, Panama City itself is becoming an increasingly popular destination for expats looking to retire in Panama. The city has a range of neighborhoods that cater to retirees, including the upscale area of Punta Pacifica and the historic district of Casco Viejo. With a range of amenities, including world-class restaurants, shopping malls, and medical facilities, Panama City offers retirees the best of both worlds – a vibrant urban lifestyle and easy access to natural beauty.
Fourthly, one of the most appealing aspects of retiring in Panama is the affordability of living there. The cost of living in Panama is significantly lower than in many other countries, including the United States and Canada. Retirees can expect to live comfortably on a budget of around $2,500 to $3,500 per month, which includes housing, food, transportation, and healthcare.
Lastly, one of the easiest ways for expats to gain residency in Panama is through the pensionado program. This program is designed for retirees who have a guaranteed monthly income of at least $1,000, and provides a range of benefits, including discounts on healthcare, transportation, and entertainment. The program also provides a one-time exemption from import duties for household goods, making it easy for retirees to bring their belongings with them to Panama.
In conclusion, Panama offers a range of ideal retirement destinations for expats, including Boquete, Coronado, and Panama City. With its affordable cost of living, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant expat communities, Panama is quickly becoming a top destination for retirees from around the world. The pensionado program also makes it easy for expats to gain residency in the country, providing a range of benefits that make retiring in Panama an attractive option for those looking for a change of pace.