CENTRAL AMERICA
17 min read
A sweeping view of Panama’s dense jungle, distant mountains, and shimmering waterways hints at the country’s unmatched natural diversity. For soon-to-be retirees and remote professionals, Panama offers more than scenery—it delivers affordability, residency ease, and a chance to live life on your own terms. These 18 destinations show why so many are making the move.
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If you’re thinking about places to live in Panama, this country offers something for everyone, whether you’re looking for vibrant city life, a peaceful beach town, or a cool mountain retreat.
Some of the benefits of living in Panama are its affordable cost of living, favorable tax system that exempts foreign income, and the country’s excellent healthcare system, all of which make it an attractive destination for families, entrepreneurs, retirees, and adventure seekers.
The country uses the U.S. dollar, and English is widely spoken, especially in the medical community. Panama City, the country’s cosmopolitan capital, is one of the First World cities in Central America, with top-notch amenities, modern infrastructure, and an international airport that makes travel a breeze.
Expats from all over the world have built thriving communities across Panama, with some of the best places to live including Boquete for a cooler mountain climate, Coronado for beachfront living close to the capital, and Pedasí for a laid-back, small-town vibe.
No matter your lifestyle, there’s a perfect spot for you in Panama. So, let’s dive into the 18 best places to live in Panama!
Table of Contents
TOP PLACES TO LIVE IN Panama FOR EXPATS
1. Panama City: A Prime Place to Live in Panama
Panama City Stats
Population: 2.16 million
Cost of Living: High 📈
Location: 🏙
Weather: 🔥 tropical and humid year-round with a distinct wet and dry season
When thinking about the best places to live in Panama, Panama City stands out as the country’s vibrant hub. It offers a mix of rich history, from Casco Viejo and Panama Viejo to modern attractions like Via Veneto and Parque Omar.
If you’re used to city life in North America or Europe, you’ll find fine dining, shopping malls, theaters, and stunning views—all at a more affordable price. While it’s one of Panama’s pricier spots, you’ll enjoy excellent value with luxury residences, reliable utilities, and world-class infrastructure.
The city welcomes professionals, digital nomads, families, and retirees, all while offering a warm, welcoming community.
The stunning white-sand beaches of Playa Blanca, Panama—one of the most beautiful coastal destinations to live in.
2. Playa Blanca: Coastal Living Among Panama’s Best Places
Playa Blanca Stats
Population: not available
Cost of Living: High💰
Location: 🏖
Weather: 🌡 Tropical hot and humid all year
Transportation:
🚘 2+ hours from Panama City
🚌 Many routes
Playa Blanca is a peaceful beachfront community on Panama’s Pacific coast, perfect for those seeking a laid-back lifestyle with breathtaking ocean views.
Famous for its white sandy beaches and clear blue waters, it’s a popular spot for expatriates wanting a serene beach side home. Being among some of the best places to live in Panama, the area features resort-style developments, including condos, villas, and private homes, many with oceanfront locations. Ideal for water lovers, it offers activities like swimming and fishing.
Despite its upscale properties, Playa Blanca maintains a relaxed vibe, with local restaurants, shops, and markets for convenience. Close to tropical forests and scenic beaches, it’s perfect for nature lovers.
WHY THE CORONADO REGION IS ONE OF THE BEST PLACES TO LIVE IN PANAMA
3. Coronado: Ideal Expat Destination in Panama
Coronado Stats
Population: approximately 25,000
Cost of Living: High💰
Location: 🏖
Weather: 🔥 tropical and humidity year-round, and a distinct wet and dry season.
Transportation:
🚘 1.5 hour from Panama City
🚌 Many routes
Coronado is one of Panama’s most sought-after beach communities, making it one of the most popular places to live in Panama. You’ll find a blend of stunning coastline, relaxed vibes, and a vibrant expat community.
Just a short drive from Panama City, it provides the perfect mix of seaside tranquility and modern amenities, making it ideal for families, retirees, remote workers, and entrepreneurs. Coronado boasts beautiful beaches, world-class golf courses, and upscale shopping, dining, and resorts.
The area is friendly and active, with plenty of local events for newcomers. With reliable utilities, high-speed internet, and access to quality healthcare, Coronado offers an excellent lifestyle at a more affordable price than Panama City.
4. Las Lajas: A Relaxed Place to Live in Panama
Las lajas Stats
Population: 7,000
Cost of Living: Moderate👌
Location: 🏖
Weather: 🌡 Tropical with warm temperatures all year
Transportation:
🚘 1 hour from Panama City
🚌 Many routes
Las Lajas is a tranquil beach community in Panama’s Chiriquí Province, perfect for those seeking a peaceful escape from city life. Known for its long, stunning beach, it offers plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and scenic walks which is why it’s on our list of the best places to live in Panama.
The town maintains a laid-back vibe, with a small selection of local restaurants, shops, and accommodations. Surrounded by lush greenery and farmland, Las Lajas provides a natural, rural setting that attracts both expats and locals looking for simplicity and tranquility.
While it lacks the amenities of larger cities, it offers an authentic coastal experience and access to outdoor activities like bird watching and horseback riding.
The breathtaking tropical shoreline of Bocas del Toro, a vibrant Caribbean paradise in Panama.
5. Nueva Gorgona: Charming Coastal Town to Live in Panama
Nueva Gorgona Stats
Population: 5,000+
Cost of Living: High 💰
Location: 🏖
Weather: 🌡 High humidity and consistently warm all year
Transportation:
🚘 1.5 hour+ from Panama City
🚌 Many routes
Nueva Gorgona is one of the more underrated yet appealing places to live in Panama, especially if you’re looking for a laid-back coastal lifestyle without the crowds. Located on the Pacific coast, this peaceful beach town is known for its striking black-and-white sand beaches, ideal for long walks, surfing, and fishing.
Unlike busier tourist hubs, Nueva Gorgona offers a more authentic, local vibe while still being just 10 minutes from Coronado, where you’ll find supermarkets, restaurants, medical services, and other modern conveniences.
The real estate market here is diverse—ranging from modest homes to upscale beachfront condos—making it a solid choice for retirees, part-time residents, or investors seeking a quieter alternative to Panama’s more developed beach towns.
If you’re exploring places to live in Panama that offer both serenity and access, Nueva Gorgona strikes a compelling balance.
Where Could You Be Living Next?
Latin American residency options today.
6. San Carlos: Peaceful Living in Panama
San Carlos Stats
Population: 18,000+
Cost of Living: Moderate👌
Location: 🏖
Weather: 🌡 Tropical with warm temperatures all year
Transportation:
🚘 2 hours from Panama City
🚌 Many routes
San Carlos is a tranquil town in Panama Oeste, offering a relaxed beach side lifestyle perfect for those wanting to escape the hustle of Panama City.
With a mix of residential areas, local shops, and eateries serving traditional Panamanian dishes, the town has a welcoming atmosphere. Surrounded by lush hills and close to beaches like Playa El Palmar, it’s a paradise for beach lovers, surfers, and nature enthusiasts which makes it one of the great places to live in Panama.
San Carlos has a strong sense of community and provides easy access to nearby towns via the Pan-American Highway, making it a peaceful and convenient coastal retreat with a slower pace of life.
CENTRAL HIGHLANDS: A COOLER, CALMER PLACE TO LIVE IN PANAMA
7. El Valle de Anton: Mountain Living in Panama
El Valle de Anton Stats
Population: 7,600+
Cost of Living: Low 👇
Location: 🌄
Weather: ☀ spring-like climate year-round, with temperatures typically cooler than the lowlands
Transportation:
🚘 2 hours+ from Panama City
🚌 Many routes
El Valle de Antón, located in the serene crater of an extinct volcano, is a hidden gem in Panama, offering a peaceful escape surrounded by lush greenery and rich biodiversity.
Known for its cool climate, El Valle is ideal for nature lovers, with activities like hiking, bird watching, and soaking in thermal baths. The lively local market displays fresh produce, traditional goods, and unique handicrafts, reflecting the town’s culture. Attractions like the El Nispero Zoo, Butterfly Haven, and Serpentarium add to its charm.
El Valle offers a relaxed lifestyle with comfortable accommodations, all within a short distance of Panama City’s amenities.
8. Altos del Maria: Quiet Retreats for Expats in Panama
Altos del Maria Stats
Population: 3,000
Cost of Living: High+ 💰
Location: 🏞
Weather: 🆒 Temperate pleasant all year
Transportation:
🚘 8 hours+ from Panama City
🚌 Many routes
Altos del María is a gated mountain community in Panama’s Sora district, offering a peaceful retreat surrounded by lush forests, rolling hills, and diverse wildlife.
Ideal for those seeking a nature-filled lifestyle, this residential area blends modern amenities with a focus on conservation that makes it one of the best places to live in Panama. Homes range from cozy cabins to luxurious villas, many with breathtaking views.
The cooler climate and abundant greenery provide a refreshing alternative to Panama’s warmer coastal areas. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking trails, waterfalls, and natural swimming holes.
With essential amenities and easy access to nearby beaches and services, Altos del María offers a serene, eco-friendly living experience.
The peaceful countryside of Chiriquí, Panama, where lush landscapes and a welcoming community create one of the perfect places to live.
9. Santa Fe: Cool Highland Towns to Live in Panama
Santa Fe Stats
Population: 3,500
Cost of Living: Moderate👌
Location: 🌄
Weather: 🌤 Generally mild with a tropical rain forest climate fostering a spectacular coffee culture
Transportation:
🚘 5 hours from Panama City
🚌 Many routes
Santa Fe, nestled in the highlands of Veraguas Province, is a peaceful haven for those seeking a nature-filled lifestyle. With its cool climate, lush green landscapes, and stunning mountain views, it provides a refreshing escape from Panama’s warmer lowlands.
Life in this area is slow-paced and peaceful, making it one of the best places to live in Panama for retirees, remote workers, and families seeking a quiet yet well-connected community. Santa Fe offers essential amenities like grocery stores, medical services, and local businesses.
Outdoor lovers can enjoy hiking, waterfalls, and rivers, while coffee enthusiasts will appreciate the town’s thriving coffee farms. With affordable housing and a reasonable cost of living, it’s an ideal retreat.
IS THE AZUERO PENINSULA ONE OF THE BEST PLACES TO LIVE IN PANAMA?
10. Chitré: A Key Spot to Live in Panama
Chitré Stats
Population: 55,000+
Cost of Living: Low 📉
Location: 🏖 7km (4.3 mi) inland
Weather: ☀ warm temperatures all year
Transportation:
🚘 3.5 hours from Panama City
🚌 Many routes
Chitré is one of the best places to live in Panama because it offers the perfect balance of modern amenities and a relaxed lifestyle.
As the largest city in the region, it provides everything you need—supermarkets, shopping centers, restaurants, gyms, banks, and even a golf course—without the hustle of Panama City. Known for its colonial charm and lively agricultural atmosphere, Chitré is a great base for expats.
The cost of living, including housing and healthcare, is affordable, and the city is well-connected, with beaches like Pedasí just an hour away. Rich in culture, folklore, and festivals, Chitré offers a welcoming community and a true taste of Panama’s heritage.
11. Las Tablas: Cultural Life Among Panama’s Best Places
Las Tablas Stats
Population: 30,000+
Cost of Living: Moderate👌
Location: 🏖
Weather: 🔥 hot temperatures all year
Transportation:
🚘 4 hours from Panama City
🚌 Many routes
Las Tablas is an affordable and culturally rich town on Panama’s Pacific coast, offering a relaxed lifestyle deeply rooted in tradition.
Known for its vibrant folklore, it’s home to one of Panama’s most spectacular Carnival celebrations, filled with colorful parades, music, and dance. Despite the lively events, day-to-day life is peaceful and welcoming.
The town combines historic colonial architecture with modern amenities like shops, restaurants, and healthcare services. Las Tablas is also close to uncrowded beaches, perfect for relaxation and fishing, and surrounded by lush countryside. With its low cost of living and friendly community, it’s an ideal place to live in Panama.
Where Could You Be Living Next?
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12. Pedasi: Coastal Charm for Living in Panama
Pedasi Stats
Population: 3,000
Cost of Living: Moderate👌
Location: 🏖
Weather: ☀ tropical with warm temperatures all year
Transportation:
🚘 5 hours from Panama City
🚌 Many routes
Pedasí is one of the most appealing small-town places to live in Panama for those craving a relaxed coastal lifestyle. Located at the southern tip of the Azuero Peninsula, Pedasí is known for its laid-back vibe, friendly locals, and close-knit expat community.
With consistent sunshine, ocean breezes, and one of the driest climates in Panama, it’s perfect for those who want year-round warm weather without the heavy tropical rains.
Whether you’re into surfing, fishing, or simply enjoying quiet beach days, Pedasí offers a tranquil pace of life with just enough amenities to stay comfortable. While a few hours from Panama City, it’s just an hour from Chitré, offering larger supermarkets and amenities.
Pedasí boasts a warm, welcoming community of locals and expats, with colorful streets and colonial-style homes. The town is near beautiful beaches like Playa Venao, making it ideal for those seeking a peaceful coastal life with outdoor adventure.
An guide takes tourists on a river journey, showcasing Panama’s rich cultural heritage.
EXPLORING WESTERN PANAMA: PEACEFUL PLACES TO LIVE IN PANAMA
13. Bocas del Toro: Tropical Living in Panama
Bocas del Toro Stats
Population: 13,000
Cost of Living: High 💰
Location: 🏖
Weather: 🌡🌦 Tropical with high humidity and a rainy season from May to December
Transportation:
🚘 11 hours+ from Panama City
🚌 Many routes
🚤 Frequent options
If you’re dreaming of island life, Bocas del Toro is one of the most unique and vibrant places to live in Panama. This Caribbean archipelago near the Costa Rican border blends laid-back island living with essential modern conveniences.
Isla Colón serves as the main hub, offering restaurants, shops, schools, and healthcare—all within reach of white-sand beaches and turquoise waters.
Known for its natural beauty and easygoing vibe, Bocas attracts a diverse mix of Indigenous, Afro-Caribbean, and expat residents. It’s a paradise for snorkeling, diving, boating, and enjoying life at a slower pace.
With an affordable cost of living and a strong sense of community, Bocas del Toro stands out as a top choice for those seeking a tropical, off-the-beaten-path lifestyle in Panama.
14. Boquete: Highland Retreats Living in Panama
Boquete Stats
Population: 25,000
Cost of Living: Moderate👌
Location: 🏞🌄
Weather: 🌦 Spring all year with misty rains
Transporation:
🚘 8 hours from Panama City
🚌 Many routes
Boquete, located in the highlands of Chiriquí, is a popular destination for expats seeking a cool climate, stunning landscapes, and a relaxed lifestyle.
Known for its lush scenery and breathtaking mountain views, Boquete combines small-town charm with modern amenities.
The town has a thriving expat community, with many opening businesses like restaurants, bakeries, and wellness centers. It’s also a hub for holistic living, organic farming, and outdoor activities.
Famous for its coffee, Boquete offers tours and tastings at local farms. With grocery stores, healthcare, and a welcoming atmosphere, Boquete is an ideal spot for adventure or peaceful retirement.
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15. David: Urban Comforts in Panama
David Stats
Population: 145,000
Cost of Living: Reasonable👌
Location: 👨🌾🌾
Weather: 🌡 Tropical with high humidity
Drive Accessibility:
🚘 7+ hours from Panama City
🚌 Many routes
David, the capital of Chiriquí Province, is an ideal place for those seeking an affordable yet convenient lifestyle. As Panama’s third-largest city, it serves as a commercial and transportation hub, offering essential services without the bustle of Panama City.
Known for its strong economy in agriculture, livestock, and commerce, David provides stability and opportunities which makes it one of the best places to live Panama.
The city is easy to navigate and features fresh produce, including local coffee and fruits. With modern amenities, shopping centers, and cultural sites like the José de Obaldía Historic Museum, David offers a welcoming community and access to nearby outdoor adventures.
Hillside home in Boquete, one of the most popular places to live in Panama—ideal for expats seeking a peaceful, highland lifestyle with mountain views and cooler weather.
16. Volcán: Quiet Mountain Towns in Panama
Volcán Stats
Population: 7,000
Cost of Living: Moderate👌
Location: 🏞
Weather: 🆒 Spring temperatures all year
Transportation:
🚘 8 hours+ from Panama City
🚌 Many routes
Volcán is one of the most peaceful and scenic places to live in Panama, especially for those drawn to cooler temperatures and a rural, highland lifestyle.
Nestled in the Chiriquí province near the Costa Rican border, this picturesque town is surrounded by rolling hills, lush forests, and rich farmland—perfect for nature lovers, gardeners, and anyone craving open space and fresh air. Volcán’s economy is rooted in agriculture, known for its fresh produce, vibrant flowers, and some of Panama’s best coffee.
The town’s crisp mountain climate offers a refreshing alternative to the heat of the lowlands, while still providing access to essential services, local markets, and a friendly, down-to-earth community.
For retirees, remote workers, or anyone seeking a quieter pace of life, Volcán stands out as one of the most underrated places to live in Panama—offering natural beauty, affordability, and a grounded way of living.
17. Puerto Armuelles: Coastal Living Options in Panama
Puerto Armuelles Stats
Population: 20,000
Cost of Living: Low 📉
Location: 🏖
Weather: 🌡Consistently warm all year
Transporation:
🚘 8 hours+ from Panama City
🚌 Many routes
Puerto Armuelles, a coastal town in Chiriquí Province, offers an affordable and laid-back lifestyle by the ocean. Once a bustling banana export hub, the town still features American-influenced architecture and a unique cultural mix.
While some areas preserve their historic charm, new businesses and residents are revitalizing the community.
A major highlight is its long beachfront, perfect for fishing, swimming, and surfing. Unlike more developed coastal towns, Puerto Armuelles remains uncrowded and relaxed.
With lower living costs, affordable real estate, and essential services, it’s a great option for retirees and expats looking for a peaceful, seaside home near the Costa Rica border.
18. Santa Catalina: Surf and Relaxation for Expats in Panama
Santa Catalina Stats
Population: 7,000
Cost of Living: Moderate👌
Location: 🏖
Weather: 🌡Tropical with warm temperatures all year
Transporation:
🚘 6+ hours from Panama City
🚌 Many routes
Santa Catalina, a charming village on Panama’s Pacific coast, offers a peaceful retreat for those seeking a relaxed lifestyle. Originally a small fishing village, it has become a popular spot for surfers, divers, and nature lovers, while maintaining its rustic charm and laid-back atmosphere.
The cozy town features local restaurants, accommodations ranging from hostels to boutique hotels, and a few surf shops, fostering a close-knit community.
Surrounded by lush forests, residents can enjoy wildlife watching and outdoor activities. With stunning sunsets and proximity to Coiba National Park, Santa Catalina is perfect for anyone looking to live by the sea in tranquility.
Is One of These Places to Live in Panama Right for You?
No matter your lifestyle, Panama has a place that feels like home. From the modern buzz of Panama City to the cool mountain retreat of Boquete, the beachfront paradise of Coronado, and the laid-back island life of Bocas del Toro, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re retiring, working remotely, or seeking adventure, Panama’s diverse regions offer affordability, great healthcare, and welcoming expat communities.
With easy residency options and a high quality of life, it’s no wonder so many expats choose to settle here.
And if you’re still weighing your options, don’t miss our guide to the 10 advantages of living in Latin America—it’ll give you a broader perspective on why places like Panama stand out.
FAQ
🌎Where do most American expats live in Panama?
When it comes to popular places to live in Panama, American expats have several standout choices depending on lifestyle and priorities.
Many choose Panama City for its modern infrastructure, international business scene, and access to top healthcare. It’s the hub of expat life for professionals, entrepreneurs, and anyone who wants the energy of a big city with Latin American flair.
If you’re after a cooler climate and a tight-knit expat community, Boquete in the highlands is a favorite. Known for its spring-like weather, mountain views, and coffee farms, it’s especially popular with retirees.
For those craving coastal life, Coronado and other Pacific beach towns offer warm weather, golf courses, and a short drive to the capital.
Want island living? Head to Bocas del Toro, where you’ll find a relaxed Caribbean vibe, crystal-clear waters, and a younger, adventure-seeking crowd.
Whether you’re retiring, working remotely, or just looking for a lifestyle reset, there are plenty of expat-friendly places to live in Panama—each with its own unique pace and personality.
🌎Where is the best expat retirement community in Panama?
When it comes to top places to live in Panama for retirees, Boquete often leads the list. Tucked into the Chiriquí highlands, Boquete offers a cooler mountain climate, beautiful natural surroundings, and one of the most established expat retirement communities in the country.
It’s popular for its relaxed pace, excellent healthcare access, and active lifestyle—think hiking, gardening, coffee tours, and bird watching.
Another top pick is Coronado, a Pacific beach town just a short drive from Panama City. Retirees here enjoy warm weather, ocean views, golf courses, and easy access to the capital’s hospitals, shopping, and international airport.
Whether you’re drawn to mountain living or the beach lifestyle, both Boquete and Coronado are among the best places to live in Panama for retirees looking for comfort, community, and convenience.
🌎How many US expats live in Panama?
Panama is home to an estimated 25,000 to 30,000 U.S. expats, though the exact number varies.
Many are retirees drawn by the Pension Visa, while others move for work, business, or a better quality of life. Panama continues to attract Americans looking for an affordable and enjoyable place to live.
🌎Why are there so many expats in Panama?
Panama has become a popular destination for expats due to its welcoming atmosphere, affordable cost of living, and high-quality healthcare.
They are drawn by Panama’s ease of residency, including the friendly Pension Program for retirees, and its stable economy. The country’s modern infrastructure, tropical climate, and proximity to the U.S. make it an attractive option for those seeking adventure, a lower cost of living, or simply a slower, more relaxed lifestyle.
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