7 Benefits of Living in Panama

Globally, there’s been a huge surge of people deciding to move to a foreign country. Panama is a favorite destination. This beautiful country in Central America has long been one of the best places to retire in the world. Panama also attracts digital nomads and entrepreneurs!

So, what makes this little place so special? Well, the many benefits that come with living there, of course! Below, we’ve listed the top 7 benefits of living in Panama. We’re sure that after you read our list, you’ll start searching for flights and pulling your suitcases out of the attic!

Beautiful Year-Round Weather

Were you cursing the winter this past year each time you woke up in the morning only to have to shovel your car out of feet of snow? Yup, I’ve been there. Many moons ago, I experienced one of the coldest winters of my life. I vowed never to do it again. And I haven’t looked back since!

Panama has pleasant weather year-round. Its tropical climate allows for indoor and outdoor living. It’s rare for the temperature to drop below 75 degrees or above 93 degrees Fahrenheit.

If you’re ready to ditch the snow gear for shorts, then Panama’s the perfect place!

Natural Diversity

Don’t be fooled by the size of Panama. Although it’s a little country, it packs quite the punch when it comes to ecological diversity.

In Panama, you can enjoy the mountains, beach, countryside, and big city.

Not sure where you want to live? Do you love the quiet of the farmlands and dream of growing your own veggies? But, do you also love the culture and vibrance of a big city? No problem.

In Panama, you can split your time among your favorite parts. Or decide to live at the beach and vacation in the mountains. The possibilities are truly endless. And in such a little country, weekend trips are easily accessible for quick getaways.

Welcoming Community

Panamanians are known to be some of the most friendly, hospitable, and patient people in the world. One thing I loved about moving to Panama was that the culture basically requires you to slow down your pace of life and enjoy the moment.

For example, I constantly see cars stopping in the middle of the road to chat with a passerby. Or I see strangers taking the time to get to know each other when waiting in line at a grocery store. The importance placed on community and family is evident in all facets of Panamanian society.

This makes it an even better place to move to as a foreigner. With such a naturally friendly disposition, you’ll have an easy time meeting people if you’re open to it!

Large Expat Network

Being such a popular place to retire, there is a large ex-pat community in Panama. This is another positive when you make the move. You’ll have an empathetic community to reach out to.

What do I mean by that? Well, there will be a whole network of people who know exactly what you’re going through. Many things come with moving to a new country: navigating the bureaucracy, learning the language, understanding the cultural norms, and meeting new people. You’ll have a rather large group of people who are able and willing to give you the best tips on making the transition to Panama as easy as possible.

And, since it’ll take you a while to learn the local language (if you don’t already know it), you’ll be able to communicate with others in English. In fact, many Panamanians have also learned English to offer services to ex-pats. So, you can survive (and even connect with others) without immediately knowing Spanish.

Retiree Benefits

There’s a reason why Panama is consistently ranked globally as one of the best countries for retirees. Panama makes it quite simple (and very alluring!) to retire there.

If you plan to retire in Panama, you may have already heard of the Pensionado Visa. Well, this visa allows many retirees to easily become residents. Applicants must make at least $1000 USD per month pension or social security ( plus an extra $250 for your spouse). This visa makes it quite simple to retire in the country.

Oh, and the Pensionado Visa also offers a number of other benefits! Retirees with this visa can enjoy discounts on entertainment, domestic flights, utility bills, and restaurants. After all that, who wouldn’t want to retire in Panama?!

Love to travel? Get 25% off airfare to anywhere in the world when you have a Pensionado Visa!

Like to eat out? Enjoy 20% off meals at restaurants!

You even get 25% off utility bills, 50% off at movie theaters, and discounts at doctors, hospitals, and more.

When you can get a discount while doing what you love, it takes the stress away!

The Pensionado discounts are another way you can live better for less in Panama!

Lower Cost of Living

More and more people are not willing to settle for working endless hours to just get by. That’s why many people have opted to move to countries with lower costs of living. By doing this, you can work less or use fewer savings while also having a higher quality of life.

For example, the cost of fresh fruits and vegetables will be much lower in Panama, as well as monthly rent and utilities.

However, your lifestyle will greatly affect your budget. To live on less, you will need to embrace the simple things. For example, you may not have the newest, most cutting-edge kitchen appliances in your rental, but you’re a block from the beach. The best thing about a move to Panama is that you will have plenty of realistic options, no matter your budget!

When you move to Panama, you will be able to afford luxuries like a weekly housekeeper, massage, eating out more often, hire a gardener, and other things that will increase the quality of your life and give you more time to enjoy the things you love doing

High-Qualify Healthcare

For those of us moving from the U.S., affordable healthcare and health insurance is a huge factor. The cost of healthcare in the U.S. is exorbitant. If you’ve felt trapped, stuck, or without options for affordable, quality healthcare in the U.S., then Panama could be the perfect place for you to move.

In fact, Panama’s healthcare system is one of the best in Latin America. Panama City has some of the best medical facilities in Panama, including the Johns Hopkins affiliate Pacific Salud. However, you can also find quality hospitals, clinics, and doctors in other towns too.

Another bonus: English-speaking medical professionals are found in most areas. So, no need to frantically google translate your new symptoms because it’s likely you’ll be able to have a consult in your native language.

Endless Benefits Await!

Those are some of the main benefits that you can enjoy when living in Panama. But, there are plenty of other benefits that you’ll find once you’re living here. They could be as simple as the juice stand around the corner from your house or the reliable internet you’re able to enjoy in your home office.

You’ll meet new and interesting people from all around the world!

If you’re excited about the life that you could have in Panama, then check out our Online Complete Panama Relocation Guide. In this guide, we’ll let you know the ins and outs of moving to Panama and provide reliable contacts for immigration lawyers, real estate agents and more.

Take the CRASH COURSE! If you’re serious about changing your life and moving to Panama, let us help you make the transition easily! We offer a crash course in relocating to Panama during our week-long all-inclusive Panama Relocation Tour. You’re sure to leave absolutely in love with Panama and with a greater understanding of how to make your move a reality.

Since 2010, Panama Relocation Tours has helped thousands have a hassle-free move to Panama. We can help you too!