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Nueva Gorgona—often just called Gorgona—is one of Panama’s most underrated beach communities. Located less than 10 minutes from Coronado and just over an hour from Panama City, it offers the perfect blend of laid-back beach living, friendly locals, and surprisingly affordable costs.
For anyone considering a move to Panama’s Pacific beach communities, Gorgona deserves a serious look. This article features insights and a cost-of-living breakdown from Tim, who has lived here with his wife, Janet, for several years. Their experience offers a realistic and practical look at what it’s actually like to live in Gorgona full-time.
A video interview with Tim and Janet is included below, along with their complete monthly budget and candid impressions of life in Panama.
Why Expats Love Nueva Gorgona
Gorgona appeals to people who want to live near a beach town—without the crowds or high prices of larger resort areas. It’s close enough to Coronado to benefit from modern conveniences, but still maintains a quiet, local feel.
Nueva Gorgona is more affordable than neighboring Coronado or San Carlos!
Residents enjoy:
A laid-back vibe with friendly neighbors
🔹Easy beach access
🔹Year-round warm weather
🔹Great fondas (local eateries)
🔹Fast access to shopping, clinics, and the Pan-American highway
🔹Affordability compared to many other Panama beach towns
Tim and Janet say they “always feel safe” and love the community atmosphere, the beach, and their pool.
Tim & Janet’s Cost of Living in Nueva Gorgona
Below is their full cost breakdown, organized by category. They own their home, use taxis instead of a car, and live comfortably on a very reasonable budget for two retirees.
HOUSING
Home Purchase Price: $140,000
Bedrooms/Bathrooms: 3 bed / 2 bath
HOA Fee: $175/month
UTILITIES
Electricity $85 (with air conditioning)
Water $7.50
Gas $0
Internet (Tigo) $59
Cellphone (Tigo) $45
Their Medicare Advantage plan offers excellent emergency coverage in Panama.
Their Overall Monthly Cost of Living for Two People
Below is a simple monthly summary based on their averages:
🔹HOA: $175
🔹Utilities: ~$196.50
🔹Transportation: $160
🔹Groceries + Eating Out: $380
🔹Other living expenses + entertainment: $170
🔹Streaming + shipping: ~$135
🔹Medical: $40
Total Estimated Monthly Cost: ~$1,256 for two people
Tim & Janet’s Honest Impressions of Life in Gorgona:
“Very friendly, we always feel safe, and we enjoy the beach and the pool. Fondas are great.”
“Living in Panama is a great value.”
They emphasize the warm and welcoming nature of Panamanians—but also note an important cultural awareness:
They view living in Panama as a gift and make an effort to respect the culture and the opportunity to live here.
Their reflections perfectly capture the mindset that allows expats to thrive in Panama—respect, gratitude, and a willingness to adapt.
Is Nueva Gorgona Right for You?
If you’re dreaming of:
🔹Affordable beach living
🔹A friendly community
🔹Easy access to amenities
🔹Lower cost of living
🔹A quiet, relaxed lifestyle
…then Nueva Gorgona could be your perfect match.
And Tim & Janet’s real-world numbers show that two people can live comfortably near the beach—without breaking the bank.
Watch the Full Interview with Tim & Janet
They share what surprised them, what they love most, what they wish they knew before moving, and their best advice for future expats.
Ready to Explore Gorgona for Yourself?
Panama Relocation Tours has helped more than 7,500 people successfully move to Panama the right way since 2010…including Tim and Janet!
If Gorgona—or any other coastal community—sounds appealing, our Private Panama Relocation Tours are the ideal way to explore what life is like there.
Private Tours are fully customized to see and do what’s most important to you. A Private Tour only has you/your family, and the Private Tour Guide. Prices start as low as $250/day for up to 2 people. Learn more here.
The Online Panama Relocation Guide has the information you need to help you move to Panama with ease and confidence. It includes a “self-guided” tour section for those who prefer to explore Panama on their own.
