Panama
Cost of living in Panama City
Panama City is Panama's capital, at the Pacific entrance of the Panama Canal. The US dollar circulates as everyday currency, and the city has the highest rent estimates in this dataset. Its metro has expanded steadily since 2014.
What it costs to live in Panama City
On an average lifestyle in a 1-bed apartment, Panama City comes to an estimated $1,740 a month: the 19th lowest of 19 cities and 62% above the median of this dataset ($1,073). Rent makes up 55% of the total. Compared with the median city, you would spend more on rent, groceries, transport, utilities, internet, coworking and entertainment.
| Lifestyle | Room | 1-bed apartment | Family apartment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frugal | $805 | $1,220 | $1,705 |
| Average | $1,275 | $1,740 | $2,400 |
| Comfortable | $1,817 | $2,397 | $3,287 |
Every figure is a modeled estimate in US dollars, not an individually observed price. Q1–Q2 2026 data, not re-verified since. Methodology
Your budget in Panama City
Adjust the household, lifestyle and any category.
Monthly breakdown by category
One person, 1-bed apartment, average lifestyle. Median = the middle city of all 19.
| Category | Panama City | % of total | Median |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent | $950 | 55% | $540 |
| Groceries | $295 | 17% | $200 |
| Transport | $55 | 3% | $40 |
| Utilities | $100 | 6% | $58 |
| Internet | $35 | 2% | $28 |
| Coworking | $150 | 9% | $100 |
| Entertainment | $155 | 9% | $100 |
| Total per month | $1,740 | 100% | $1,073 |
Housing in Panama City
Before signing, always ask about the deposit, any rent paid in advance, whether a guarantor is required and who pays utilities and building fees. These terms vary between landlords and are not fixed legal requirements.
Moving to Panama City
Visa and residency rules in Panama depend on your nationality and circumstances. Always check the official website of Panama's migration authority or its nearest consulate. Nothing on this page is legal advice.