If you’ve been thinking about leaving the U.S. (or elsewhere) and starting fresh somewhere new, chances are Panama has already popped up on your radar. And honestly? There’s a reason for that.
As someone who lives here and helps people explore relocation every single week, I get asked the same question all the time: “Is Panama really a good place to live?”
The short answer? For many people, yes.
The longer answer? Let’s break it down so you can decide if Panama might be the right fit for you.
1. A Strategic Location That Just Makes Sense
Panama’s location is one of its biggest advantages. You’re literally at the crossroads of the Americas, with easy access to North America, South America, and the Caribbean.
Tocumen International Airport (PTY) is a major hub, which means:
- Direct flights to the U.S., Canada, Europe, and Latin America
- Easier travel for visiting family and friends
- Fewer long, exhausting travel days
If you still plan to travel often or need easy access back to the States, Panama makes that very doable.
2. A Lower Cost of Living (Without Giving Up Comfort)
This is one of the biggest reasons people start looking at Panama.
While costs vary depending on your lifestyle and where you live, many people find they can live comfortably here for less than they would in major U.S. cities.
Some everyday examples:
- Utilities are generally affordable
- Fresh produce and local food are inexpensive
- Public transportation is cheap and efficient
- You can choose between budget-friendly living or upscale luxury
Panama allows you to scale your lifestyle up or down which is something a lot of people appreciate once they’re retired or semi-retired.
3. Multiple Lifestyle Options (Not Just One “Panama”)
This is something I always emphasize: Panama is not one-size-fits-all.
You can choose:
- City living in Panama City with high-rise condos and modern amenities
- Cooler mountain climates in Boquete or El Valle de Antón
- Beach communities along the Pacific or Caribbean coasts
- Suburban or semi-rural areas with more space and greenery
During my Relocate with Shevy Tours, I make sure people see different areas of Panama so they can decide what actually fits their lifestyle, not just what looks good on social media.
4. Accessible & affordable Healthcare
Panama has become a popular destination for medical care, especially for expats and retirees because it offers high-quality healthcare at lower costs, modern private hospitals, and doctors trained in the U.S. and Europe.
Here’s why:
- Modern private hospitals
- U.S. and internationally trained doctors
- Short wait times for urgent procedures/surgeries
- Affordable private healthcare options
Many private hospitals in Panama City meet international standards and are equipped with advanced technology.
Facilities such as Pacífica Salud (affiliated with Johns Hopkins Medicine) and The Panama Clinic are well known for specialties like cardiology, orthopedics, diagnostics, and general surgery.
Appointments and procedures often come with shorter wait times compared to the U.S. or Canada.
5. Retirement & Visa-Friendly Options
Panama is often ranked as one of the best countries for retirees and the Pensionado Visa plays a big role in that.
Some other popular visas include:
- Friendly Nations Visa
- Professional Foreign Work Visa
- Investor/Golden Visa
Each visa has different requirements, benefits, and timelines, which is why I always recommend learning your options before making any big decisions.
6. Ease of Integration for Expats
Panama has a large and diverse expat community, which makes settling in much easier than many people expect.
You’ll find:
- English spoken in some areas
- International schools
- Expat groups and communities
- A mix of local and international businesses
At the same time, Panama still maintains its culture, traditions, and identity which is part of what makes living here so special.
7. A Stable Economy & Use of the U.S. Dollar
Panama uses the U.S. dollar alongside the Panamanian balboa, which removes a lot of stress when it comes to currency exchange and banking.
The country also has:
- A strong service-based economy
- A major logistics and shipping sector
- Stable banking and financial systems
This financial stability is another reason many people feel comfortable making Panama their long-term home.
8. Things to Consider Before Moving to Panama
Now, let’s keep it real. No place is perfect.
Some things to think about:
- Bureaucracy can move slowly
- Spanish is important especially at banks, government offices, supermarkets, and outside of expat-heavy areas
- The rainy season is real (yes, it rains)
- Some services work differently than in the U.S./Canada/Europe
That’s why I always encourage people to visit first, ask questions, and spend time in different areas before making any permanent moves.
Is Panama Right for You?
Panama could be a great fit if you’re looking for:
- A lower cost of living
- A warm climate
- Better work-life balance
- Easy international travel
- A welcoming environment for expats and retirees
But the best way to truly know is to experience it for yourself.
Next Steps
If you’re still in the research phase, take your time and explore the resources on this site.
And if you’re ready to see Panama through a local’s lens, my Relocate with Shevy Tours are designed to help you explore neighborhoods, understand the lifestyle, and make informed decisions without pressure.
Explore my relocation tours and here
Book a consultation if you’d like personalized guidance on relocating to Panama