Businesses, recommendations and stories from the neighbors next door
Curated recommendations from local expats
A stranger who helped, a friend lost touch with, someone worth thanking
Warnings, tips & scam alerts pinned on an interactive map
What's happening in Panama City
I made improvements to a $28,000 apartment I was buying through a charity organization, which I'm now being asked to undo for $1,500, after being blocked by the director for over a year. I'm considering taking them to court, but I'm worried I'll lose and be left with a huge bill for lawyer fees.
I live in a 6th floor apartment in Casco Viejo, very close to the Santa Ana area. This morning, I woke up at 5:30am and heard what sounded like many gunshots, similar to an automatic weapon, lasting for 5 minutes or more. I've never heard or seen the police respond to the area. I'm concerned about the noise and its implications. Is this a normal occurrence in the area?
I'm considering buying an apartment in Río Abajo and renting out one of the rooms. My partner and I would live in the other room and share the common areas. We're looking for advice on what price to consider reasonable to charge per month, and what amenities to include to make it attractive to potential renters. If anyone has experience renting in that area or has shared an apartment, I'd appreciate their feedback.
I'm considering buying an apartment in Obarrio, but I'm worried about the traffic during rush hour. I've heard it's pretty bad, but I'd like to know if anyone has experience living there. The building is close to the Sortis.
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Common questions from expats moving to or living in Panama City
The cost of living in Panama City varies depending on your lifestyle. Generally, expats find housing, food, and services more affordable compared to many Western countries. Check our Housing & Relocation section for rental prices and our local business directory for service costs.
Panama City offers both public and private healthcare options. Many expats opt for private healthcare or international health insurance for comprehensive coverage. Browse our Health & Wellness directory to find doctors, clinics, and specialists recommended by the community.
Like any destination, Panama City has safe neighborhoods popular with expats and areas that require more caution. Check our interactive Safety Map to see real-time warnings, tips, and scam alerts pinned by the community. We also recommend reading our blogs for firsthand experiences from local expats.
Finding housing in Panama City can be done through local real estate agents, online listings, and our classifieds section. Many expats recommend visiting first for a short stay to explore different neighborhoods before committing to a long-term rental.
Visa requirements depend on your nationality and intended length of stay. Common options include tourist visas, temporary residency, and retirement visas. We recommend consulting with immigration lawyers listed in our directory for personalized guidance on the best visa pathway for your situation.
Have more questions about living in Panama City?
Read Community BlogsPanama City is Central America's most cosmopolitan capital, with a skyline that rivals Miami and a banking sector that draws international business. The Pensionado visa program has long made Panama one of the easiest countries for retirees to relocate to. Modern infrastructure, US-dollar economy, and a strategic location between North and South America make it a practical base for people of all ages.
