Panama City

Inexpensive, cosmopolitan and known for friendly locals, Panama’s capital city has long been popular for expats, retirees and remote workers. It has all the historical landmarks, cobblestone streets, tree-lined plazas and colonial architecture to create a charming environment and all the modern conveniences, hip cafes, multicultural food and vibrant nightlife to make one comfortable. Situated on the Bay of Panama, the views are impressive and for many, Panama City doesn’t feel much different than a major city in North America. There’s a big community of remote workers to hang out with as well, making it easy to integrate into the social fabric of the city.

Monthly cost of living for remote workers

A remote worker can expect to spend an average of 2363 2363 1960 ${ selected_currency } per month in Panama City, with an average rent of 1038 1038 861 ${ selected_currency }.

Rent 1 bedroom apartment / modern / central / short term	${ selected_currency } 1038 1038 861
Groceries Basic groceries	${ selected_currency } 236 236 196
Dining out 12 dinners and 8 lunches	${ selected_currency } 372 372 308
Cafe 20 coffees / teas	${ selected_currency } 43 43 36
Coworking space 1 month membership / hot desk	${ selected_currency } 157 157 130
Mobile internet Prepaid SIM / 5 GB data / fast	${ selected_currency } 21 21 17
Public transportation 20 roundtrip journeys	${ selected_currency } 12 12 10
Taxis 5 short trips	${ selected_currency } 48 48 40
Shared bicycles and scooters 10 trips	${ selected_currency } 0 0 0
Sport and cultural events 1 event	${ selected_currency } 35 35 29
Museums and sights 3 sights / entrance tickets	${ selected_currency } 9 9 7
Nightlife 5 nights out / 3 drinks per night	${ selected_currency } 117 117 97
Gym 1 month membership	${ selected_currency } 37 37 31
Yoga 10 classes	${ selected_currency } 163 163 135
Massage 1 massage	${ selected_currency } 75 75 62
TOTAL	${ selected_currency } 2363 2363 1960

Latest tips

Valuable advice straight from the experiences of your fellow remote workers.

Do you have a tip about Panama City? Please share and help the community!

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Panama City is full of high rise apartment buildings on its outskirts and they are still building. The native city residents are generally poor, and my impression of the city is that you will live in an insulated community far from the reality of enjoying and experiencing a foreign destination. Driving is crazy - definitely take a cab.

By Debbie A. General

Soberania National Park, which is only 30 minutes away from the city center is a cool escape. I suggest exploring the Las Cruces Trail inside the park, a hiking trail that was used by the Spanish in the 16th century as a way to transport gold.

By Nipe C. Places to visit

Casco Viejo is the old city. This area used to be really run down, but now Panama City is investing a lot in it and a lot of the old buildings have been refurbished and transformed into boutique hotels, stylish cafes and restaurants, and beautiful little shops. If you're into photoshoots, this is your place.

By Keith G. Where to live

Panama Canal - If you want to see ships actually going through the channel – surely the main reason for going there – make sure to be there in the morning, from 9:00am until around 10:30, or the afternoon from 2:30pm until it closes at 4:30pm. I highly recommend you to take a Panama Canal sightseeing cruise.

By Jay F. Places to visit

Panama City actually has some amazing creative street art. Not just the hidden art in Casco Viejo, but all around town near Avenida Central and Santa Ana you’ll find some great murals. Also, go to a rooftop bar to enjoy the city's beautiful skyline. If you do this in Casco Viejo, you’ll get the very best views. Tantalo is the most famous rooftop restaurant/bar.

By Matt T. Places to visit

View all tips

Population	880,691
Main airport	Tocumen International Airport (PTY)
Language	Spanish
Tap water	Not drinkable
Tipping	10% in restaurants, round up elsewhere
Taxi apps	Uber, Tu Chofer