Retire in David, Panama
Last updated on Apr 15, 2025
Summary: What is it like to retire in David, Panama? Retirees share their experiences living in David.
What is it like to retire in David?
"Life for a retiree in David, and its surroundings can be quite fulfilling and vibrant. The city is home to a thriving expat community, which is very active and welcoming, making it easier for newcomers to settle in and make friends. The expats often organize social events, gatherings, and activities, providing a great opportunity for socializing and networking. David is rich in cultural attractions, offering a blend of traditional Panamanian culture and modern amenities. The city is known for its historical sites, museums, and local markets where retirees can explore and immerse themselves in the local culture. The surrounding areas are filled with natural beauty, including mountains, beaches, and national parks, providing ample opportunities for outdoor recreation such as hiking, bird watching, and beach activities. The city also offers a variety of recreational activities. There are golf courses, fitness centers, and sports clubs where retirees can stay active. For those who enjoy a more relaxed lifestyle, there are numerous spas, wellness centers, and yoga studios. David's nightlife is relatively quiet compared to Panama City, but it does have a selection of bars, restaurants, and live music venues. The city's culinary scene is diverse, with a range of local and international cuisines available. In terms of healthcare, David has several modern hospitals and clinics that provide high-quality medical care at a fraction of the cost compared to the U.S. The city also has a number of shopping centers, supermarkets, and stores where retirees can find everything they need. Overall, life for a retiree in David, Panama, offers a balance of cultural immersion, recreational activities, and a strong sense of community, making it an attractive destination for retirement," said a retiree who moved to David, Panama.

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The Business Panama Group is a well-established group of companies, professionals and alliance partners with 20 years of experience promoting and facilitating business, investments, real estate, immigration and tourism in Panama by providing information, business development and support services to individual and corporate investors.
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What advice do overseas retirees have for others considering retiring abroad?
"Retirees in David advise others considering retiring abroad to thoroughly research the cost of living in their chosen destination, as it can vary greatly from one place to another. They suggest learning the local language, as it can greatly enhance the experience and make daily life easier. It's also recommended to visit the place multiple times before making a final decision, to get a real feel for the culture, climate, and lifestyle. They emphasize the importance of understanding the healthcare system and ensuring that you have adequate health insurance. They also advise making connections with both locals and other expats, as this can provide a valuable support network. It's also important to consider the ease of travel back to your home country, especially if you plan to visit family and friends regularly. Lastly, they suggest being open-minded and adaptable, as living in a new country can present unexpected challenges and opportunities," commented one retiree living in David, Panama.
What are the most challenging aspects of retiring in David?
"One of the most challenging aspects of retiring in David is the language barrier, as Spanish is the primary language spoken and not everyone may speak English. Adjusting to the local culture and customs can also be difficult for some retirees. The tropical climate, while appealing to some, may be too hot and humid for others, especially those with certain health conditions. Access to high-quality healthcare can be a concern, particularly for those with specific medical needs. The cost of living, while lower than in many parts of the U.S., can still be high depending on one's lifestyle and spending habits. Finally, being far away from family and friends in one's home country can lead to feelings of isolation and homesickness," remarked one retiree in David.

Kovalenko & Vera is a Panamanian law firm that specializes in immigration law, corporate law, real estate law, banking, contract negotiation, taxes and flag registry. With more than 20 years of professional practice, Kovalenko & Vera builds lasting relationships with our clients to ensure your interests are safeguarded.
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Kovalenko & Vera is a Panamanian law firm that specializes in immigration law, corporate law, real estate law, banking, contract negotiation, taxes and flag registry. With more than 20 years of professional practice, Kovalenko & Vera builds lasting relationships with our clients to ensure your interests are safeguarded.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
What are the most rewarding aspects of retiring in David?
"1. David offers a low cost of living, allowing retirees to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without worrying about high expenses. 2. The city has a warm, tropical climate year-round, which is perfect for those who enjoy outdoor activities and want to avoid cold winters. 3. The healthcare system in David is excellent, with modern facilities and highly trained doctors, ensuring retirees have access to quality medical care. 4. The city is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including mountains, beaches, and forests, providing plenty of opportunities for exploration and adventure. 5. David has a vibrant local culture and community, with numerous festivals, markets, and social events that retirees can participate in. 6. The city is also home to a large expat community, making it easier for retirees from other countries to settle in and make new friends. 7. The local cuisine is diverse and delicious, with a wide range of fresh fruits, vegetables, and seafood available. 8. David is conveniently located near other popular destinations in Panama, making it easy for retirees to travel and explore the country. 9. The city offers a relaxed pace of life, allowing retirees to enjoy their golden years in a stress-free environment. 10. Despite being a city, David still maintains a small-town feel, providing a sense of community and belonging for retirees," said a person in David.
What are healthcare services like in David?
We asked retirees if they have access to good medical care in David. They wrote:
"David, offers a range of healthcare services, including both public and private options. The public healthcare system is managed by the Ministry of Health and the Social Security Fund, providing free or low-cost services to Panamanian citizens and residents. However, it's worth noting that public hospitals and clinics may not offer the same level of care or modern equipment as private facilities. On the other hand, private healthcare in David is of a high standard, with many doctors and specialists trained overseas. Private hospitals and clinics are well-equipped, offering a wide range of services from routine check-ups to surgeries and emergency care. Pharmacies are widely available throughout the city, providing both prescription and over-the-counter medications. Some pharmacies also offer basic medical services like blood pressure checks. Despite the availability of healthcare services, language can be a barrier as not all healthcare professionals speak English. Therefore, it might be beneficial for non-Spanish speakers to have a translator or to seek out English-speaking doctors. Health insurance is highly recommended for expats and visitors to cover the cost of private healthcare. Some international insurance plans are accepted at private hospitals, but it's advisable to check in advance. Overall, while the healthcare system in David, Panama, has its challenges, it is generally considered to be adequate and continues to improve with ongoing investment and development," remarked one retiree in David.
How do I meet people in David?
When we asked people living in David about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"David, is a popular destination for expats, and there are numerous clubs and activities they can join to meet new people and integrate into the local community. Many expats join language exchange clubs, where they can practice Spanish with locals and help them with English. This is a great way to make friends and learn about the local culture. There are also various sports clubs, such as tennis, golf, and sailing, which are popular among the expat community. Joining a sports club is a great way to stay active and meet people with similar interests. For those who enjoy the arts, there are also music, dance, and theater groups. In addition to clubs, there are other ways for expats to meet people in David. Many expats volunteer in local charities and community projects, which is a rewarding way to give back to the community and make new friends. There are also numerous social events and festivals throughout the year, which are great opportunities to socialize and meet both locals and other expats. Another popular way for expats to meet people is through networking events and business groups. These can be particularly useful for those who are working or running a business in Panama. There are also online forums and social media groups for expats in David, where people can ask questions, share advice, and arrange meetups. Finally, simply exploring the city, visiting local markets and cafes, and participating in local traditions and celebrations can also lead to new friendships. The people of David are known for their friendliness and hospitality, and many expats find that they quickly feel at home in this vibrant Panamanian city," said one retiree in David.
What is life like in David?
When we asked people living in David what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Life for expats and digital nomads in David is generally relaxed and comfortable. The city offers a slower pace of life compared to other major cities, with a warm tropical climate and a rich cultural heritage. The cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their budget further. David is the second largest city in Panama, providing a range of amenities including shopping centers, restaurants, and healthcare facilities. The city is also known for its friendly and welcoming locals, making it easier for expats and digital nomads to integrate and make new friends. The city is well-connected with reliable internet, making it a suitable location for digital nomads. There are also several coworking spaces available for those who prefer a more structured work environment. Despite being a smaller city, David has a vibrant nightlife with a variety of bars and clubs. It is also in close proximity to beautiful beaches and national parks, providing plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities and weekend getaways. However, it's worth noting that while many locals speak English, it is not as widely spoken as in Panama City, so learning some basic Spanish can be beneficial. Additionally, while crime rates are generally low, like any city, it's important to take basic safety precautions. Overall, David offers a laid-back lifestyle with a mix of city conveniences and natural beauty, making it an appealing choice for expats and digital nomads," said one retiree in David.

The Business Panama Group is a well-established group of companies, professionals and alliance partners with 20 years of experience promoting and facilitating business, investments, real estate, immigration and tourism in Panama by providing information, business development and support services to individual and corporate investors.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

The Business Panama Group is a well-established group of companies, professionals and alliance partners with 20 years of experience promoting and facilitating business, investments, real estate, immigration and tourism in Panama by providing information, business development and support services to individual and corporate investors.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
What do I need to know before retiring in David?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to David, they said:
"David, is a popular retirement destination due to its affordable cost of living, warm climate, and friendly locals. Before retiring in David, expats should be aware of several key factors. Firstly, it's important to understand the cost of living. While it is generally lower than in many Western countries, it's still crucial to budget carefully and understand the costs associated with housing, healthcare, food, and other daily expenses. Secondly, healthcare is a significant consideration. Panama has a high standard of healthcare, particularly in larger cities like David. However, it's recommended to secure comprehensive health insurance to cover any potential medical costs. Language can be a barrier for some expats. While English is spoken in many areas, the primary language in Panama is Spanish. Learning some basic Spanish or taking language classes can greatly enhance your experience. Understanding the local culture and customs is also important. Panamanians are generally warm and welcoming, but it's respectful to familiarize yourself with local traditions and etiquette. The climate in David is tropical, with high temperatures and humidity year-round. It's important to consider how well you can adapt to this type of weather. Finally, it's crucial to understand the legal requirements for retiring in Panama. This includes visa requirements, potential taxes, and any restrictions on buying property. It's recommended to consult with a legal expert or relocation specialist to ensure you're fully prepared. In conclusion, retiring in David, Panama, can be a wonderful experience, but it requires careful planning and preparation. It's important to thoroughly research and consider all aspects before making the decision to move," said a person in David.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before moving to David?
- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in David?
- What is the average cost of housing in David?
- How do I meet people in David?
- What do I need to know before retiring in David?
- What should I pack when moving to David?
- Where should I setup a bank account in David?
- Will I be able to find a job in David?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do people like (and dislike) about David?
- What type of social life can someone expect in David?
- What is the social scene like in David?
- What advice to expats in David have about housing?
- What are medical services in David like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in David?
- Is the cost of living in David high?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in David?
- Why do people move to David?