Living in Penonomé: Affordable Comfort in the Heart of Panama

When people think about relocating to Panama, popular destinations like Boquete, Coronado, and Panama City often come to mind. But tucked in the heart of the country is a gem that offers an affordable lifestyle without sacrificing modern comforts—Penonomé.

Why Choose Penonomé?

Penonomé, the capital of Coclé Province, is known for its central location, welcoming community, and affordability. It offers a balance that’s hard to beat: the tranquility of a smaller city, combined with all the amenities you’d expect in a much larger one.

Healthcare: Penonomé is home to two excellent hospitals, ensuring quality medical care is close at hand. Pharmacies and specialized clinics are also readily available.

Shopping & Services: You’ll find modern grocery stores, hardware shops, clothing stores, and even large shopping centers. Daily conveniences are easily accessible.

Transportation: A well-connected bus system makes it easy to travel to Panama City in about two hours—perfect for occasional trips to the capital or the international airport. You can travel anywhere in Panama by bus.

This combination makes Penonomé a fantastic option for expats who want to stretch their retirement dollars or simply live better for less.

penonome panama shopping
Modern Shopping Centers

The Cost of Living in Penonomé

To give you a real-world example, one of our Panama Relocation Tours clients graciously shared their monthly expenses for a couple living in a furnished 3-bedroom, 2-bath house in Penonomé. Their budget showcases just how affordable life here can be:

Living Expenses

Rent: $550
Transportation: $240 (car insurance, gas, maintenance)
Electric: $18
Propane Gas: $25
Well Water: $0
Internet & Telephone: $60
Drinking Water: $10
Food: $460
Bakery Truck: $20
Healthcare: $40
Pharmacy: $250
Barber/Beauty Shop: $20
Clothing: $30

Entertainment & Extras
Gardening: $100
Dog: $30

👉 Total Monthly Expenses: $1,843

This budget provides a comfortable lifestyle with all necessities covered—plus extras like healthcare, personal care, pets, and gardening—at a fraction of what many spend in North America or Europe.

$550 a month in Penonome

Quality of Life in Penonomé

Beyond affordability, expats enjoy the friendliness of locals, year-round warm weather, and a slower pace of life. Penonomé has a vibrant local culture, frequent festivals, and is only a short drive from Pacific coast beaches and mountain towns.

For those who want to avoid the higher costs of Panama City or the touristy beach towns, Penonomé offers the perfect middle ground: affordable, convenient, and well-connected.

Mercado — the affordable place to buy fruits and veggies

Discover Penonomé for Yourself

Reading about Penonomé is one thing—experiencing it firsthand is another. The best way to know if this affordable, centrally located city is the right fit for you is to take a Private Tour of Penonomé. During your tour, you’ll see neighborhoods where expats live, visit local shops and markets, explore healthcare facilities, see rentals that match your budget, and even get a feel for the daily rhythm of life in this charming city.

Our trusted local guides know Penonomé inside and out. (They live there) They’ll answer your questions and help you evaluate whether Penonomé is the perfect place for your relocation.

👉 Ready to explore Penonomé in person? Book a Private Tour today and discover why so many expats are calling this hidden gem home.

See this video to learn more about living in Penonomé:

YouTube video

Jackie Lange

Jackie Lange is the founder of Panama Relocation Tours. Since 2010, she has helped thousands of people relocate to Panama the right way!