Cheapest priced citySantiago$987 essentials/mo
Priciest priced cityPanama City$1,507 essentials/mo
Average 1-bed outside centre$665across 3 priced cities
Tourist stay signalUp to 180 days visa-free for US/Canada, 90 days for EU/UK and most other nationalities; the Pensionado visa is one of the most accessible retiree residency programs in the world (no minimum age, $1,000/month pension).as of 2026-07
City-by-city monthly costs
Essentials are sourced rent outside centre plus utilities, groceries, dining, and local transport. They are not a full lifestyle budget.
| City | Essentials | 1-bed outside | 1-bed centre | Groceries | Dining | Utilities | Transport | Avg salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Santiago | $987 | $392 | $576 | $135 | $241 | $176 | $43 | $793 |
| Boquete | $1,143 | $700 | $825 | $159 | $158 | $101 | $25 | $800 |
| Panama City | $1,507 | $902 | $1,242 | $183 | $225 | $176 | $21 | $931 |
Single person, USD. Data updated July 27, 2026.
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