×
Interested in our Partner Program for businesses or our Local Guide Program for experienced expats and digital nomads? Click here to learn more.
Retire in Altos del Maria, Panama | Expat Exchange
Expat Exchange
Free MembershipSign In

Retire in Altos del Maria, Panama

Panama Legal Business (PANLEB)
Panama Legal Business (PANLEB)
Panama Legal Business (PANLEB)
Panama Legal Business (PANLEB)

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Apr 14, 2025

Summary: Altos del Maria, Panama is a popular destination for retirees due to its stunning natural beauty, low cost of living, and friendly locals. Retirees can find a variety of retirement communities in Altos del Maria, ranging from small, intimate communities to larger, more established ones. The cost of a nice two bedroom home in Altos del Maria is typically around $50,000 USD, while a nice three bedroom home can cost around $70,000 USD. The weather in Altos del Maria is generally warm and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit.

What is it like to retire in Altos del Maria?

"Life for a retiree in Altos del Maria and its surroundings is quite pleasant. The area is known for its lush, tropical landscape and its friendly, welcoming people. There is an active expat community in the area, with many retirees from the United States, Canada, and Europe. There are plenty of cultural attractions to explore, such as the nearby El Valle de Anton, a picturesque mountain town with a vibrant art scene. There are also plenty of recreational activities to enjoy, such as hiking, biking, and bird watching. For those looking for a bit of nightlife, there are several bars and restaurants in the area, as well as a few casinos. Altos del Maria is a great place to retire and enjoy the beauty of Panama," said one retiree in Altos del Maria.

Kovalenko & Vera Attorneys at Law in PanamaKovalenko & Vera Attorneys at Law in Panama
Connect

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.

Kovalenko & Vera Attorneys at Law in PanamaKovalenko & Vera Attorneys at Law in Panama

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.
Connect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

What advice do overseas retirees have for others considering retiring abroad?

"Retirees in Altos del Maria advise others considering retiring abroad to research the local culture and customs, as well as the cost of living and healthcare options. They also suggest visiting the area to get a better feel for the lifestyle and to make sure it is the right fit for them. Additionally, they recommend learning the language, if possible, to make the transition smoother and to be able to better connect with the local community. Finally, they suggest taking advantage of the many outdoor activities and natural beauty that the area has to offer," commented one retiree living in Altos del Maria, Panama.

What are the most challenging aspects of retiring in Altos del Maria?

"One of the most challenging aspects of retiring in Altos del Maria is the language barrier. Although many people in the area speak English, Spanish is the primary language, so it is important to have a basic understanding of the language in order to communicate effectively. Additionally, the cost of living in Altos del Maria is higher than in other parts of Panama, so it is important to have a reliable source of income to cover expenses. Finally, the area is quite remote, so access to medical care and other services may be limited," explained a retiree in Altos del Maria.

Kovalenko & Vera Attorneys at Law in Panama

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.

Learn MoreConnect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

Kovalenko & Vera Attorneys at Law in Panama

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.

Learn MoreConnect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

What are the most rewarding aspects of retiring in Altos del Maria?

"Retiring in Altos del Maria offers a variety of rewarding experiences. The area is known for its lush, tropical landscape, providing a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere for relaxation. The cost of living is much lower than in many other countries, allowing retirees to stretch their retirement savings further. The local community is friendly and welcoming, making it easy to make new friends and enjoy the company of others. The climate is mild and pleasant year-round, allowing retirees to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and swimming. Finally, the area is close to Panama City, providing easy access to a variety of cultural attractions and entertainment," said a person in Altos del Maria.

What are healthcare services like in Altos del Maria?

We asked retirees if they have access to good medical care in Altos del Maria. They wrote:

"Altos del Maria offers a variety of healthcare services to its residents. The local hospital, Hospital de Altos del Maria, provides general medical care, emergency services, and specialized care in areas such as cardiology, gynecology, and pediatrics. Additionally, there are several private clinics in the area that offer a range of medical services, including general practice, dentistry, and optometry. Altos del Maria also has a number of pharmacies that provide prescription medications and over-the-counter remedies," remarked one retiree in Altos del Maria.

How do I meet people in Altos del Maria?

When we asked people living in Altos del Maria about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Expats living in Altos del Maria often join clubs and activities such as hiking, bird watching, and yoga. Expats also meet people through local events such as farmers markets, art shows, and music festivals. Additionally, expats often meet people through word of mouth, by attending local churches, or by joining social media groups," said a retiree who moved to Altos del Maria, Panama.

What is life like in Altos del Maria?

When we asked people living in Altos del Maria what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Altos del Maria is generally peaceful and relaxed. The area is known for its lush, green mountains and stunning views, making it a great place to relax and enjoy nature. Expats and digital nomads can find a variety of activities to enjoy, from hiking and bird watching to exploring the nearby beaches and islands. The cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive option for those looking to live and work remotely. The local community is friendly and welcoming, making it easy to make friends and feel at home. Altos del Maria is a great place for expats and digital nomads to live and work, with plenty of opportunities to explore and enjoy the local culture," explained one retiree living in Altos del Maria.

Kovalenko & Vera Attorneys at Law in Panama

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.

Learn MoreConnect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

Kovalenko & Vera Attorneys at Law in Panama

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.

Learn MoreConnect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

What do I need to know before retiring in Altos del Maria?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Altos del Maria, they said:

"Expats should be aware that Altos del Maria is a mountainous region, so the climate can be quite cool and wet. It is important to research the cost of living in the area, as it can be higher than other parts of Panama. Additionally, expats should be aware that the area is quite remote, so access to amenities and services may be limited. It is also important to research the local laws and regulations, as well as the availability of healthcare and other services. Finally, expats should be aware that the local language is Spanish, so it is important to learn the language before retiring in Altos del Maria," said a person in Altos del Maria.

What type of recreational activities are there in Altos del Maria?

"Altos del Maria offers a variety of recreational facilities for its residents and visitors. The area is home to a number of hiking trails, which offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. There are also several swimming pools, tennis courts, and a golf course. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, there are several parks and gardens, as well as a number of restaurants and bars. Additionally, the area is home to a number of spas and wellness centers, offering a variety of treatments and services. Altos del Maria is also home to a number of cultural attractions, such as museums, galleries, and theaters," said one member in Altos del Maria.

Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Altos del Maria?

"Altos del Maria is a popular destination for expats, and there are plenty of places to buy groceries and do other shopping. The Super 99 Supermarket is a great place to buy groceries, and it is located in the center of Altos del Maria. For other shopping, the Altos del Maria Shopping Center is a great option, with a variety of stores selling clothing, electronics, and more. Additionally, the local farmers market is a great place to buy fresh produce and other goods," remarked one retiree in Altos del Maria.

About the Author

Joshua Wood 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.

Kovalenko & Vera Attorneys at Law in Panama
Kovalenko & Vera Attorneys at Law in Panama

We've partnered with Kovalenko & Vera to help with your move.
Learn More

Kovalenko & Vera Attorneys at Law in PanamaKovalenko & Vera Attorneys at Law in Panama

We've partnered with Kovalenko & Vera to help with your move.
Learn More

Panama Legal Business (PANLEB)
Panama Legal Business (PANLEB)

Copyright 1997-2025 Burlingame Interactive, Inc.

Privacy Policy Legal Partners & Local Guides