So the great weather, affordable cost of living and first world infrastructure have made it easy for you to choose Panama as your retirement destination. What's next? Deciding exactly where in this gem of a country you would like to settle down.
There are certainly plenty of options. Panama’s unique location on the Isthmus, the narrow bridge of land that connects North and South America, means it boasts both a Pacific and a Caribbean coast - which are separated by mountain ranges that extend almost the entire length of the country. From the city to the beach and the mountains, there is an ideal spot for everyone in Panama.
There’s already a thriving expat community here, and it’s no mystery why so many have chosen Panama to spend their golden years. For the 11th year in a row Panama has earned the top spot on the Retirement Index, which quantifies countries across 10 categories (from Housing, Visas, Climate and Healthcare to Cost of Living). As Conde Nast Traveler reports, “the goal is to find locations where retirees can spend less money, live happily and healthily, and experience a new country without straying too far from all that is familiar.”
So, where exactly in Panama is the perfect place for you to retire? Take a look at our recommendations below.
Panama City
If you’re looking for a taste of the tropics without sacrificing city life, then the country’s capital might be your best bet. The charming Casco Viejo is bustling with restaurants, rooftops and cultural events all year round, and it has undergone an extensive renovation in the past decade. A historical landmark that has been well preserved, Casco Viejo is a very appealing option if you like to be in the thick of it.
Other areas in Panama City that have been traditionally favored by expats and locals alike include Punta Pacífica, Costa del Este, Clayton and San Francisco. The first two have the modern feel of the business district, with skyscrapers, malls and international schools and hospitals. Clayton and San Francisco, on the other hand, are a good option if you want to be close to natural settings like Ancon Hill, the highest point in Panama.
Altos del María
Does your mental picture of retirement include breathing in the fresh mountain air in the mornings while looking out onto a forest landscape? Then Altos del María is your dream come true. This exclusive mountain community is only 90 minutes from Panama City, but because it's practically on virgin territory it feels like you're a world away. Plus, the weather here is colder than in the city: around 20 °C (68 °F) all year round.
Perfect for nature lovers (there's a lake, waterfalls, and a biodiversity trail) and for those who plan on having an active retirement, Altos del María offers a great mix of serenity and adventure. The residential area is fitted with all the basic amenities - like wifi, paved roads and even a heliport - as well as exclusive common areas, including pools, tennis courts, a gym, and a terrace with BBQ, fire pit and bar area.
Coronado
The retiree dream is often about falling into the laid back rhythm of a lovely beach town. For those who share that particular fantasy, Coronado is a great option. With an already thriving expat community based there, this resort town has one particular advantage: there are plenty of English speakers here, and most of the locals are also fluent in English.
Coronado has grown over the past few years, and now there are supermarkets, malls, movie theaters, a golf club and, of course, white sand beaches for miles.
The pensionado lifestyle
No matter where you finally choose to settle, you’ll likely be able to benefit from Panama’s Retirement Visa Program, also known as the Pensionado Program. Its generous benefits package, with discounts on everything from entertainment and transportation to hospitals and pharmacies, offers retirees the possibility of making the best of their golden years while spending much less than they would at home.
With such a welcoming, easy to process visa program and so many living options suited to all lifestyles and preferences, Panama really has something for everyone. From the cosmopolitan capital to the rich mountain landscapes and miles of coastline, the only hard thing about moving to Panama is deciding where exactly to settle down.
If you're interested in learning more about moving to Panama, take a look at this blog post: Living in Panama: Everything you need to know
Or if you're ready to take the first step, speak to one of our dedicated agents who can show the properties currently available in Altos del María.
