Panama City
Panama
Modern hub in Central America
Overview
Panama City is a popular destination for expats due to its modern infrastructure, high-quality healthcare, stable economy, and various visa programs. It offers cosmopolitan lifestyle with lower cost of living than many Western countries.
Why Expats Love It
Friendly visa programs, US dollar currency, modern infrastructure, quality healthcare, stable economy, established expat community, and strategic location.
Must Dos
The essential, top gem experiences for the full tourist experience.
Miraflores Locks
Watch giant ships squeeze through the Panama Canal at the Miraflores Visitor Center on the city's west side, then visit the museum terraces for the best context on how the canal reshaped Panama and global trade.
Casco Viejo Walk
Wander the colonial lanes of Casco Viejo, stopping at Plaza de la Independencia, Iglesia San José, and the sea wall at Plaza de Francia. Go in the late afternoon for softer light, rooftop views, and a lively dinner scene.
Cinta Costera Sunset
Stroll or bike the Cinta Costera at golden hour for wide views of the bay, fishing boats, and Panama City's dramatic skyline. Start near Mercado de Mariscos and continue toward Avenida Balboa as the towers light up.
Ancon Hill Hike
Climb Cerro Ancón in the early morning for one of the best panoramic views in the capital, with sightlines over the canal entrance, Casco Viejo, and the modern skyline. Bring water and keep an eye out for sloths, toucans, and agoutis along the road.
Biomuseo and Causeway
Visit Frank Gehry's colorful Biomuseo at the Amador Causeway, then keep going along Calzada de Amador for breezy views back toward the city and out to ships waiting in the Pacific. It is an easy combo for architecture, natural history, and a classic waterfront ride or walk.
Seafood Market Lunch
Eat ceviche at Mercado de Mariscos, just beside Casco Viejo, where locals and visitors crowd the upstairs stalls and the downstairs fish market. Order corvina ceviche or a fried whole fish with patacones for a true Panama City lunch.
Off the Beaten Path
Live like a local. Special, lesser known experiences for adventurers who want real local flavor.
El Cangrejo Cafes
Spend a slow morning in El Cangrejo, especially around Via Argentina and the side streets near Andres Bello Park, where independent coffee shops, bakeries, and casual lunch spots fill the neighborhood. It is one of the easiest places to feel the city's everyday rhythm on foot.
San Felipe Market Run
Skip the polished restaurants for a local grocery stop at Mercado San Felipe Neri in Santa Ana, where produce vendors, herb sellers, and lunch counters serve the surrounding neighborhoods. Go earlier in the day and bring cash for a more authentic, bustling scene.
Parque Omar Loop
Join joggers and families at Parque Omar in San Francisco, the city's favorite big urban park for shaded walks, weekend food stalls, and people-watching. It is a good way to see local life beyond the waterfront and old town.
Cerro Ancon Quarry Side
Instead of just doing the summit view, explore the quieter lower roads around Cerro Ancón and the old Canal Zone edges near Mi Pueblito for birds, monkeys, and a very different leafy side of the capital. Early mornings are coolest and most active for wildlife.
Juan Diaz Antiques
Browse the antique warehouses and secondhand shops along Avenida Jose Agustin Arango in Juan Diaz, a part of the city few tourists ever reach. You can find old Canal-era furniture, vintage signs, and random treasures if you are patient.
Veracruz Fish Shacks
Head out toward Veracruz, west of the city, for simple seaside seafood shacks where Panamanians go for fried fish, coconut rice, and cold beers with a beach view. It feels rougher and more local than the Causeway, especially on a lazy afternoon.
Cost of Living
1-Bedroom Apartment (City Center)
$1150/mo
3-Bedroom Apartment (City Center)
$1950/mo
Restaurant Meal
$10
Monthly Groceries
$400/mo
Monthly Transportation
$21/mo
Monthly Healthcare
$88/mo
Climate
Tropical climate with dry season (mid-Dec to mid-Apr) and rainy season (May to mid-Dec). Consistently warm year-round averaging 86°F (30°C).
Best Time to Visit
Mid-December to mid-April (dry season)
Visa & Residency
Written for US citizens
Friendly Nations Visa for citizens of 50+ countries allows easy residency with economic ties. Also offers Pensionado Visa and Digital Nomad Visa.
These notes assume a US passport. If you hold a different nationality, your visa options and timelines may vary. Always confirm current rules with the official embassy or consulate before you commit.
Safety
Medium risk with petty theft being primary concern in crowded areas. Certain neighborhoods have higher crime. Use ride-sharing and be aware.
Healthcare
High-quality private hospitals, many internationally accredited and affiliated with US medical centers like Johns Hopkins.
Culture & Lifestyle
Culture
Vibrant cosmopolitan lifestyle with relaxed pace. Large welcoming expat community in neighborhoods like El Cangrejo and San Francisco.
Lifestyle
Modern urban lifestyle with lively social scene, numerous restaurants, cultural attractions, and growing coworking spaces.
Language
Spanish & English
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Timezone
EST (UTC-5)