Published On: February 20th, 2023Categories: Best Of Lists, Central AmericaTags:

Best Cities in Panama for Expats

Best Cities in Panama for Expats

Panama is a popular destination for expats, and there are several cities that stand out for their unique appeal. Here’s a look at some of the best cities in Panama for expats:

1. Panama City

This capital city of Panama offers everything from modern skyscrapers to colonial architecture and bustling nightlife. The city is home to a variety of expats from all over the world, making it easy to find an apartment and make friends. It has one of the biggest expat communities in Panama.

The Panama City metro has a population of almost 2 million people, so there are plenty of job opportunities and entertainment options. It also boasts a strong economy and a low cost of living. The world-class capital offers top-notch healthcare and infrastructure, and it’s one of the safest cities in Central America.

panama city skyline for expats

2. David

This city is the capital of Chiriquí province on the Western coast near Costa Rica, and it’s known as a popular destination for expats. With a population of 175,000, it has plenty of amenities like shopping centers, supermarkets, banks, hospitals, and schools. David’s low cost of living attracts expats who want to stretch their dollar. It also offers plenty of outdoor activities and easy access to beaches, mountains, and other attractions.

david panama for expats

Image courtesy of CAPRA Initiative

3. Boquete

Like David, this mountain town is in the Chiriqui province. Because it sits in the highlands of the region, it’s known for its temperate climate, lush scenery, and stunning rainbows! It’s popular with retirees due to its low cost of living and beautiful surroundings. Its central locale allows you to explore both Panamanian coasts as well as cross the border into Costa Rica. Only 25,000 people live in Boquete, but a fifth of those are expats. If you love coffee, you’ll enjoy exploring the local industry.

rainbow over a house in boquete panama for expats
panama relocation tours for moving to panama

4. Coronado

Located on the Pacific Coast, Coronado is a great place for expats who are looking for a beach lifestyle. This town has become increasingly popular over the past few years due to its growing infrastructure and proximity to Panama City, and it’s crawling with expat retirees. It’s great for immigrants who want to be close to the action of a major city but still live in a coastal town. Coronado has some of the most beautiful beaches and golf courses in Panama, plus plenty of modern amenities. If you love to fish, check out the Coronado fishing club.

coronodo beach aerial view for expats

5. Bocas Town

Situated on the Caribbean side of Panama in rainy Bocas del Toro province, Bocas Town is a great destination for those who love both beach and jungle life. With its laid-back atmosphere, fun nightlife, and beautiful beaches, the tiny island town of 8,000 is especially popular with backpackers and digital nomads who love the rainforest and the water and who aren’t relying on big city amenities like formal schools or private healthcare.

view of the water in bocos del toro panama for expats

6. Chitre

Chitre is the capital of Herrera province on the Azuero Peninsula. It’s known for its exceptional birdwatching and friendly locals, along with its legendary Carnival celebrations. Chitre’s affordable cost of living, along with its close proximity to some of Panama’s best natural attractions and beaches, make it a great choice for immigrants who want to explore the country.

pelican on the beach in chitre panama for expats

Panama is regularly ranked in the top 10 for American retirees, so it’s especially appealing for those folks, but working-age immigrants will also find ample opportunity. Explore cities and neighborhoods to find what calls to you and meets your expat goals.

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Jen Barnett Expatsi headshot
Co-founder at Expatsi | Website | + posts

Jen Barnett is an expat influencer and co-founder of Expatsi, a company that's helped thousands of Americans on their moving abroad journeys. She created the Expatsi Test, an assessment that recommends countries for aspiring emigrants based on lifestyle data. Jen has an MBA from Emory University with concentrations in marketing and innovation. She's written for BusinessWeek, Health, Cooking Light, and Southern Living. Prior to Expatsi, she created Freshfully and Bottle & Bone—two businesses in the local food space—and spoke at TEDx on being brave. She's moving to Mexico in 2024, along with her husband and co-founder Brett, pitbull mix Squiggy, and three rotten cats. How can she help you move abroad?

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Jen Barnett Expatsi headshot
Co-founder at Expatsi | Website | + posts

Jen Barnett is an expat influencer and co-founder of Expatsi, a company that's helped thousands of Americans on their moving abroad journeys. She created the Expatsi Test, an assessment that recommends countries for aspiring emigrants based on lifestyle data. Jen has an MBA from Emory University with concentrations in marketing and innovation. She's written for BusinessWeek, Health, Cooking Light, and Southern Living. Prior to Expatsi, she created Freshfully and Bottle & Bone—two businesses in the local food space—and spoke at TEDx on being brave. She's moving to Mexico in 2024, along with her husband and co-founder Brett, pitbull mix Squiggy, and three rotten cats. How can she help you move abroad?