When people talk about Panama online – especially in expat forums, Facebook groups, and long-running comment threads – the same themes come up again and again. This article is based on repeated patterns across hundreds of public comments and expat surveys, not marketing claims. The result is a clear picture of why Panama continues to attract expats at every stage of life.
Below are the top 10 factors most frequently mentioned, ranked by how consistently they appear.
1) Affordability and overall value for money
Expats consistently highlight how far their money goes in Panama. Housing, services, healthcare, dining, and day-to-day expenses tend to cost less than in the US, Canada, and much of Europe. What stands out is not just lower prices, but the ability to maintain a comfortable lifestyle without constant financial pressure.
2) Friendly people and a welcoming social atmosphere
One of the strongest recurring themes is the warmth of the people. Expats often describe Panama as socially easy – people are approachable, helpful, and community-oriented. This significantly lowers the friction of relocating and settling into a new country.
3) Nature that is close and accessible
Rainforests, rivers, islands, mountains, wildlife, and green landscapes are not occasional attractions – they are part of daily life. Many expats emphasize how easy it is to live near nature without giving up basic services.
4) Beaches and water-based lifestyle
Access to the ocean is a major draw. Beaches, coastal walks, swimming, fishing, surfing, and island hopping are frequently mentioned. For many, the water is not just scenery – it shapes daily routines and long-term lifestyle choices.
5) Climate options – not just heat
Panama offers real climate flexibility. Coastal areas are warm year-round, while higher-elevation regions provide cooler temperatures and fresh evenings. This ability to choose your climate based on location is a practical advantage many expats appreciate after arrival.
6) Food culture and fresh ingredients
Food was the most repeated topic in Facebook comments. From traditional Panamanian dishes to tropical fruits, fresh fish, and international dining options, food consistently comes up as a daily pleasure rather than an occasional treat.
7) Residency pathways and retiree incentives
Panama’s residency programs, especially the Pensionado, continue to attract retirees. These programs are often cited as a reason people choose Panama over other countries with more complex or restrictive immigration systems.
8) Feeling safe in everyday life
While safety is not always the first thing mentioned, when it does come up it is emphasized strongly. Many expats note feeling comfortable walking, driving, and traveling solo in their daily routines, especially compared to expectations before moving.
9) Practical convenience and use of the US dollar
Panama’s dollarized economy removes currency risk and simplifies financial planning for many expats. This familiarity makes budgeting, banking, and long-term planning more straightforward.
10) Infrastructure, services, and connectivity
Reliable internet, modern services in major hubs, regional airports, and overall connectivity contribute to what many expats describe as the “it works” factor. Daily logistics tend to be easier than people expect.
How these factors influence real estate decisions
These preferences directly shape where people choose to buy or rent.
Expats who prioritize cooler weather, walkability, and a strong community feel often begin their search in areas like Boquete, where elevation and social infrastructure align with those priorities.
Those drawn to beach living, outdoor routines, and a slower coastal rhythm frequently focus on regions like the Azuero Peninsula, where access to the ocean and lower density living define the lifestyle.
Across all regions, practical details matter more than many expect – reliable internet, water access, backup power options, and proximity to services often outweigh purely aesthetic features.
Need help choosing the right area in Panama?
Casa Solution Real Estate helps expats compare regions objectively, understand real on-the-ground conditions, and identify properties that match how they actually want to live – not just what looks good online.
If you share your top three priorities from the list above, we can point you toward the areas that make the most sense for your lifestyle and long-term plans.
Date written: January 25, 2026
