Real Estate in Panama City, Panama
Last updated on Mar 03, 2023
Summary:
How do I find a place to live in Panama City?
We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"We live in Costa del Este because we wanted to be very close to services without being in a noisy city and we also like to walk and Costa del Este is a beautiful place with wide sidewalks and beautiful landscaping," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Panama City.
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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Panama City?
"In a highrise, and that was after living in a home, on the ground, in California. Never dreamed I'd be going vertical again. But it has safety advantages, especially in a building that has a good, stable reputation," explained one person living in Panama City, Panama.
What is the average cost of housing in Panama City?
If you are thinking about moving to Panama City, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"Electricity more, especially when fuel prices soar. Cable is same. No ppty taxes, but now have $400 a month maintenance in the bldg, which includes water, garbage, common area items. When I look at check registers from California, I'm reminded that we paid a monthly (smaller) fee, but paid for garbage removal, gardener for back yard, all utilities, cable, phone. Here I can live with a cell phone only," remarked one member in Panama City.
"Panama prices are still low but not like advertised by different websites. The retirement (jubilado) discount is interesting but not fully discounted as advertised, it's not 25% on the total electric bill, it's 25% of the of a portion of the electricity used so far away from 25% of total bill. Hotels are discounted by 25% but from their highest price so if a hotel is showing a special price of $100/night, you won't get 25% off $100, you will get 25% of their regular price that maybe around $150 so you better use their special rare and not applying your jubilado discount. For restaurants, the 25% discount worth it but it's not 25% off the total bill, it's 15 to 25% on portion of the bill but still worth it. Condo/house purchase or rental are cheaper. Food is not cheaper then the USA and even higher so if you buy locally food, you will save but limited on your choice. If you buy some food products from the USA, you will pay full price....higher then the USA. Panama is hot and Humid besides if you live in the mountains but there are negative aspects to it. My wife and I live in Panama and we like it so this message is not to sugar coat Panama but to be realistic. We like Panama, people are very friendly with no crazy politic discussions. You don't hear about shooting here and there on daily basis, it is safe and quiet place. They use the US currency, it's not to far away from the USA so it's interesting," explained one expat living in Panama City, Panama.
Should I buy or rent a home in Panama City?
If you have not spent a lot of time in Panama City, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:
"Buying a home in Panama City can be a great investment. The city is growing rapidly and real estate prices are on the rise. Renting a home in Panama City can also be a great option, as it allows you to experience the city without the commitment of buying. It is important to consider your budget and lifestyle when deciding whether to buy or rent a home in Panama City," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Panama City.
"Yes. a condo. Process is kind of sloppy. A bit tricky. Need a good attorney. a lot of patience," explained one person living in Panama City, Panama.
What do I need to know when buying property in Panama City?
When we asked expats what advice they would give a foreigner before buying a property in Panama City, they said:
"1. It is important to research the area you are interested in buying property in, as different neighborhoods have different characteristics and amenities. 2. It is also important to understand the local laws and regulations regarding property ownership, as well as any taxes or fees associated with purchasing property. 3. It is recommended to hire a local lawyer to help you navigate the legal process of buying property in Panama City. 4. It is also important to consider the cost of living in Panama City, as well as the availability of public transportation, healthcare, and other services. 5. Lastly, it is important to understand the local currency and how it affects the cost of living and purchasing property in Panama City," explained one foreigner living in Panama City, Panama.
Are foreigners allowed to own property in Panama City?
When we asked expats what advice they would give a foreigner before buying a property in Panama City, they said...
"Yes, foreigners are allowed to own property in Panama City. The Panamanian government has established a legal framework that allows foreign individuals and companies to purchase and own real estate in Panama. Foreigners can purchase property in their own name or through a Panamanian corporation. The process of purchasing property in Panama is relatively straightforward and can be completed in a few weeks," explained one foreigner living in Panama City, Panama.
What appliances are typically included in a rental?
We asked foreigners in Panama City what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:
"In Panama City, rental properties typically include a refrigerator, stove, oven, and washing machine. Additionally, some properties may include air conditioning units, dishwashers, and microwaves," wrote one expat who made the move to Panama City.
Additional Information about Searching for a Home in Panama City:
We asked foreigners in Panama City what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included...
"Expats can search for homes in Panama City by looking online for real estate listings, contacting local real estate agents, and searching for rental listings on websites such as Airbnb and VRBO. Additionally, expats can look for housing options in local newspapers and magazines, or ask friends and family who have lived in Panama City for recommendations," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Panama City.
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.
Additional Information:
- Expat Guide to Panama City
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Panama City
- Best Neighborhoods for Single Digital Nomads Living in Panama City
- Pros & Cons of Living in Panama City
- Fun Classes for Expats Living in Panama City
- Best Neighborhoods for Retirees in Panama City
- Best Neighborhoods for Families in Panama City
- Best Neighborhoods for Single People in Panama City
- Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Panama City
- 7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Panama City
- Fun Classes for Expats Living in Panama City
- Best Bookstores and Libraries in Panama City
- Public Transportation in Panama City
- Best Markets in Panama City
- Retire in Panama City Guide
- 7 Tips for Living in Panama City
- Pros & Cons of Living in Panama City
- Driving in Panama City
- Cost of Living in Panama City
- Health Care in Panama City
- Discover the Best of Panama City
- Panama City, Panama
- International Schools in Panama City
- Best Places to Live in Panama City, Panama
- Cost of Living in Panama City, Panama
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Panama
- Best Places to Live in Panama
- Guide to Residency in Panama
- What It's Like Living in Panama City
- Pros and Cons of Living in Panama 2026
- 2026 Guide to Moving to Panama
- More Advice about Retiring in Panama
- Members Talk about the Cost of Living in Panama



