| Area | Vibe | Monthly Rent* | Why Expats Like It |
|---|---|---|---|
| El Cangrejo (PTY) | Walkable, leafy, cafés | $850–$1,400 | Car‑free lifestyle, central metro stop |
| San Francisco (PTY) | Residential‑meets‑urban | $1,000–$1,800 | Near Parque Omar & malls |
| Costa del Este (PTY) | Modern, upscale, families | $1,500–$3,000 | International schools, offices |
| Casco Viejo (PTY) | Colonial, hipster, nightlife | $1,200–$2,500 | Rooftop bars, history, Airbnb potential |
| Coronado (Pacific Beach) | Laid‑back, retirees | $900–$1,600 | 1‑hr drive to city, golf, expat clubs |
| Boquete (Highlands) | Cool climate, outdoorsy | $700–$1,200 | Coffee farms, hiking, dog‑friendly |
| Bocas del Toro (Caribbean) | Island, backpacker, surf | $600–$1,000 | Over‑the‑water living, dive scene |
*Furnished 2‑bed apartment/house, 6‑ or 12‑month lease. Utilities extra unless noted.
Pro Tip: Rent short‑term (Airbnb or monthly) for the first 3–6 months while you neighborhood‑shop.
Budget $1,800–$2,800 per month for a comfortable single/couple life in Panama City; 15–25 % less outside the capital.
| Mode | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Metro (Line 1 & 2) | $0.35 | Tap RapiPass card; A/C, safe |
| City Bus (MetroBus) | $0.25–$1.25 | Extensive routes; Spanish signs |
| Uber/Cabify | $3–$15 | Cheapest to/from airport PTY (~$16) |
| Yellow Taxis | Negotiated | Always agree on fare first |
| Driving | Gas ~$4/gal | Toll pass (Panapass), defensive driving a must |
Driver’s License
Tourists can drive on a foreign license for 90 days. Residents convert their license after receiving their carnet; AskPanama can fast‑track the appointment.
International Schools (annual tuition):
Most follow US or IB curricula; wait‑lists common—apply 6–12 months out.
jump to our Residency Options page
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