Table of Contents
- Why Where You Live in Panama Matters
- Quick Comparison Table: Best Places to Live in Panama
- 1. Panama City (Urban, Connected, International)
- 2. Coronado & Gorgona (Pacific Beach Corridor)
- 3. Boquete (Cool Mountain Retreat in Chiriquí)
- 4. El Valle de Antón (Green Crater Living)
- 5. Bocas del Toro (Island & Caribbean Lifestyle)
- 6. Pedasí & Azuero Peninsula (Quiet Beach & Culture)
- 7. Santa Fe & Volcán (Authentic Highlands)
- 8. David & Western Panama (Affordable Small City Base)
- How to Choose the Right Area for You
- Relocation, Visas & Legal Support
- FAQs: Best Places to Live in Panama
Why Where You Live in Panama Matters
Panama is a small country on a map, but it doesn’t feel that way once you arrive. In 2–3 hours you can go from a high-rise apartment in the capital to a breezy mountain town, or from a quiet beach area back to world-class hospitals. That’s why your choice of location is one of the most important early decisions when relocating.
Some people want to be near the international airport, bilingual schools, embassies, and business centers in Panama City. Others move specifically for the cooler climate in places like Boquete or El Valle. Beach lovers pick Coronado, Gorgona, or Pedasí. Meanwhile, expats who want quiet, nature, and very low monthly expenses often choose Santa Fe or Volcán.
If you’re still researching the broader lifestyle, cost, and healthcare considerations, we recommend reading Living in Panama first, and then coming back to this “best places to live in Panama” guide.
Quick Comparison Table: Best Places to Live in Panama
The table below summarizes the most common expat destinations, based on our 20+ years of relocation and immigration experience in Panama. Actual costs will vary by lifestyle, imported goods, and whether you rent or buy. For current price benchmarks, see our page on Panama cost of living.
| Location | Climate | Lifestyle Type | Approx. Cost of Living | Best For | Access to Services |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Panama City | Tropical, warm/humid | Urban, business, international | $$$ (higher) | Working expats, families, investors | Excellent — hospitals, schools, shopping |
| Coronado & Gorgona | Warm coastal | Beach/suburban | $$ | Retirees, part-time residents | Very good — supermarkets, clinics |
| Boquete | Cool, spring-like | Mountain, outdoors | $$ | Retirees, nature lovers | Good in town; major hospitals in David |
| El Valle de Antón | Cooler than coast | Small town, eco | $$ | Families, weekenders, expats | Moderate — Panama City ~2 hrs |
| Bocas del Toro | Warm, Caribbean | Island, laid-back | $$ | Remote workers, lifestyle expats | Limited — travel to mainland for some services |
| Pedasí (Azuero) | Warm, drier | Rural beach, surf, fishing | $–$$ | Retirees, low-key coastal living | Basic locally, more in Las Tablas/Chitré |
| Santa Fe / Volcán | Cool mountain | Very quiet, authentic Panamanian | $ | Budget-conscious expats, nature | Limited locally |
| David | Warm, lowland | Regional city | $ | Families, workers, staging for Boquete/Bocas | Good — hospitals, airport |
1. Panama City (Urban, Connected, International)
Panama City is the epicenter of both economic and social activity in the country. The city is vibrant, new, and fun, but it can also be more expensive and quite fast-paced — which is exactly what many working expats and globally mobile families want.
You will find brand new apartments available with every amenity you’re used to in North America or Europe, and in many buildings you will have a pool, spa, and gym. Neighborhoods like San Francisco, El Cangrejo, Costa del Este, Punta Pacífica, Clayton, and the historic Casco Viejo each offer a slightly different feel — from historic colonial streets to master-planned communities. Many of our clients choose the city simply for its convenience, healthcare, and connectivity to the rest of the world via Tocumen International Airport.
Pros:
- Best hospitals and clinics in the country
- International schools and bilingual education
- Business, banking, and employment opportunities
- Restaurants, nightlife, shopping, and entertainment
Cons:
- Traffic can be hectic
- More expensive than interior towns
- Urban noise and humidity
If you’re deciding between city, suburb, or coastal life, we recommend also reading: Where to retire in Panama: city, country or suburban life?
2. Coronado & Gorgona (Pacific Beach Corridor)
Coronado is one of the most modern and developed Pacific beach towns, and very popular for both expats and locals. It has white-sand beaches, restaurants and shops, warm weather, and is about a 1–1.5 hour drive from Panama City — far enough away to be quiet, close enough to get to the capital’s hospitals or the airport.
Gorgona, just next door, has been growing quickly and is slightly more low-key. Together with San Carlos and the wider “playas” region, this is where many Panamanians keep their weekend beach homes, which is a good sign for infrastructure and long-term stability.
Ideal for: retirees who don’t want to be isolated, people who want to live at the beach but still access Panama City, snowbirds, and families wanting yard/condo space.
If you’re cost-sensitive, check out: The cheapest cities to live in Panama.
3. Boquete (Cool Mountain Retreat in Chiriquí)
Boquete is one of the world’s top retirement destinations. It is located in the northwest mountains of Panama, close to the border with Costa Rica, and is set in the heart of the country’s coffee-producing region. Temperatures are spring-like year-round, which is a major advantage for expats who do not like the tropical heat.
Boquete has a large expat community, lots of activities, outdoor recreation (hiking, birding, hot springs, river rafting), and a very friendly pace of life. The town has fewer restaurants than Panama City, but the ones that do exist are often of very high quality and cater to North American and European tastes. Property rental and purchase prices are generally lower than in the capital, and day-to-day costs can be very reasonable.
Note on healthcare: most Boquete residents use local clinics for routine care and go to David (about 30–40 minutes) for hospitals. That combination is one reason this area has remained so popular for so long.
4. El Valle de Antón (Green Crater Living)
El Valle is a favorite among Panamanians, weekenders, and expats who want cooler weather without going all the way to Chiriquí. It sits in the crater of an extinct volcano, surrounded by lush mountains, waterfalls, and hiking trails.
This area is known for its pleasant climate, clean air, and nature. It is a small town (so nightlife is limited), but you can reach the Pacific beaches or Panama City by car. Because of this, many people choose El Valle for a semi-retired or remote-work lifestyle.
5. Bocas del Toro (Island & Caribbean Lifestyle)
Bocas del Toro is Panama’s most famous Caribbean destination. It is a laid-back, island-based lifestyle with colorful houses, over-the-water stays, eco-lodges, and a mix of locals, surfers, and long-term expats.
This archipelago of islands, adorned with lush rainforests and fringed by pristine shores, beckons travelers to unwind amidst nature’s splendor and immerse themselves in the vibrant local culture. For adventure seekers, the surrounding coral reefs teem with marine life, inviting snorkelers and scuba divers to explore vibrant underwater worlds.
While Bocas is not for everyone (logistics can be trickier; some services are limited; weather is Caribbean-humid), it is one of the best places to live in Panama for people who want island life, diving, watersports, or to operate tourism/hospitality projects.
6. Pedasí & Azuero Peninsula (Quiet Beach & Culture)
Pedasí is a small town on the Azuero Peninsula, about a 3-4 hour drive from Panama City, in the southwest section of the country. It is fairly remote, and as a result, attracts many people who want a quiet life on the beach, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Services are more limited than in Coronado, but infrastructure is improving every year. This area is also known for surfing (Playa Venao is nearby), fishing, and local Panamanian festivals in the nearby town of Las Tablas. Pedasí housing prices are very reasonable, and considering its proximity to the ocean and natural surroundings, you will find a lot of value for your dollar.
Best for: retirees and semi-retirees wanting a peaceful coastal town, people who work online, and anyone who prefers a small-town, community-centric atmosphere.
7. Santa Fe & Volcán (Authentic Highlands)
If you liked the description of Boquete but want something even quieter or more authentic, consider Santa Fe (in Veraguas) or Volcán (in Chiriquí). These areas are known for their old-world Panamanian character, friendly locals, and very low cost of living.
In Santa Fe, you will get the authentic, old-world Panamanian experience. Nestled in the highlands of the interior of the country, Santa Fe is known for its favorable climate, wildlife, and laid-back pace. If you are looking for nightlife, or a vibrant social scene, this town may not be for you.
People choose these towns when they prioritize nature, hiking, orchids, and space over immediate access to international restaurants or malls. For that reason, they’re some of the best places to live in Panama on a budget.
8. David & Western Panama (Affordable City Base)
David is the capital of Chiriquí and one of the fastest-growing cities in Panama. It is warm, practical, and Panamanian — and that’s exactly what some expats want. David has hospitals, shopping, an airport, and good road access to Boquete, Volcán, and the Pacific beaches (Las Lajas, Boca Chica).
Because costs are lower than in the capital, David is an excellent choice for families and retirees who want city services but don’t need to be in Panama City.
How to Choose the Right Area for You
To narrow down where to live in Panama, ask yourself:
- Climate: Do you want year-round warm beach weather, or do you prefer spring-like mountains?
- Access to healthcare: Do you need to be within 30–60 minutes of a major hospital?
- Community: Do you want a large, established expat community (Panama City, Boquete, Coronado) or a quieter, more local town (Santa Fe, Pedasí)?
- Budget: Panama can be inexpensive, but city luxury or imported goods will raise costs — compare areas using our cost of living in Panama guide.
- Family/Schooling: If moving with kids, Panama City and the Pacific coastal corridor give you the best schooling options.
When in doubt, many clients will rent for 3–6 months in one location first, and then buy once they’re sure. To compare legal and financial implications of buying or renting, see Panama real estate: renting vs buying.
Relocation, Visas & Legal Support
Location is one part of the relocation equation; immigration status is the other. Panama has some of the most expat-friendly residency paths in the region, including the Panama Friendly Nations Visa and the Panama retirement (Pensionado) visa. Each has different documentation requirements, investment options, and processing timelines.
Our firm has helped more than 1,000 families, retirees, and investors relocate to Panama, including setting up bank introductions, real estate review, and corporate structuring when needed. If you already know where you want to live — city, beach, or mountains — we can align your immigration strategy to it.
Next step: learn about relocating to Panama or contact us for a consultation.
FAQs: Best Places to Live in Panama
What is the best place to live in Panama for retirees?
For pure retirement, Boquete, Coronado, and El Valle are the most common choices because of their climate, expat communities, and access to services. Many retirees also qualify for the Panama retirement visa (Pensionado), which provides local discounts.
Where is the cheapest place to live in Panama?
The cheapest places to live are generally in the interior and highlands — towns like David, Santa Fe, and some parts of the Azuero Peninsula. For a deeper breakdown, see The cheapest cities to live in Panama.
Is Panama City still a good place to live for expats?
Yes. Panama City remains the best option for people who want modern infrastructure, hospitals, international schools, business opportunities, nightlife and international flights. Costs are higher than in the interior, but still competitive versus North America.
What is the best beach town in Panama for expats?
Coronado is the most complete beach town, with supermarkets, restaurants, clinics, and gated communities. Gorgona, San Carlos, and Pedasí are good alternatives if you want quieter or more affordable.
How do I start the relocation process?
The safest path is to speak with a Panama law firm that handles immigration, real estate review, and banking introductions so that your visa and property plans match. Speak with our relocation and immigration experts at International Relocation Firm to plan your move to Panama.
