Retiring in Panama
By Silvanna Pacheco, July 14th, 2025
Panama has emerged as a premier destination for retirees, topping the list on the 2025 International Living’s Annual Global Retirement Index. Its affordability, welcoming expat community, and attractive government incentives makes it such a desirable destination. Here’s a closer look at what makes Panama so great:
The Panamanian Pensionado Visa
Panama offers a Retirement Visa or Pensionado Visa which is one of the most attractive retirement programs globally. The primary requirement is to demonstrate a monthly steady income of at least US$1,000 or $750.00 if you invest $100.000 on real estate in Panama. This pension offers permanent residency and significant benefits like discounts on a wide range of services: 50% off entertainment (movies, concerts, sporting events), 25% off domestic and international airline tickets, 25% off electricity, telephone, and water bills, 20% on restaurants and 10-20% off medications, just to name a few.
An Affordable Cost of Living
The cost of living in Panama is less than in other Central American countries
A comfortable life in smaller towns can be achieved for $800 – $1,500 per month. it is considered lower than in many Western developed countries, particularly the United States and Canada. Panama uses the U.S. dollar, eliminating currency exchange rate concerns and simplifying the financial planning.
Accessible and Quality Healthcare
For expats, private Healthcare is highly recommended. Private hospitals, particularly in Panama City, offer high-quality care, modern facilities, and english-speaking doctors. A general practitioner visit might cost $10, while a specialist could be $50-$75. The Hospital Punta Pacífica is affiliated with John Hopkins Medicine International, a testament to its commitment to world-class medical standards.
Established Expat Community
The presence of a large and welcoming expat community across various regions, especially in places like Boquete, Coronado, and Panama City, makes the transition and social integration easier for newcomers. This network provides support, shared experiences, and a sense of belonging.
Diverse Living Environments
Panama caters to various preferences when it comes to choosing a place to live:
Boquete: Boquete offers a tranquil environment and beautiful mountains filled with flowers and coffee plantations. Known for its year-round “eternal spring” climate, temperatures are significantly cooler than coastal areas, making air conditioning often unnecessary.
Coronado: A developed Pacific beach town, Coronado is perfect for those seeking a coastal lifestyle with convenient access to modern amenities. With resorts, golf courses, and a well-established expat community, it is often considered an extension of Panama City.
Azuero Peninsula: The Azuero Peninsula including Torio and Pedasí offers pristine beaches, quaint fishing villages and a laid-back, authentic Panamanian experience. It’s a growing hub for expats seeking a more natural and serene environment.
Panama City: For retirees who prefer an urban setting, Panama City delivers modern infrastructure, amenities, and a vibrant social scene. Popular areas such as Punta Pacífica, Punta Paitilla, Costa del Este, and Avenida Balboa are close to world-class private hospitals and offer all the comforts of city living.
Please feel free to contact us to discuss your interests and preferences. We’ll help you craft a personalized itinerary that allows you to thoroughly explore Panama and determine if it’s the perfect retirement place for you.