Overview of Panama City
Panama City is a Central America city in Panama. It scores 7.5/10 for its dating scene, 7/10 for safety and 6.5/10 for English proficiency. A single man living comfortably can expect to spend around $1,000 a month. The language barrier is moderate, the expat community is medium, visa access for most Western passports is rated moderate.
Mix of traditional and modern. Business-minded women common. Be well-dressed and ambitious. Upscale restaurant or rooftop bar. Business casual dress. Always pay. Status conscious.
Cost of living in Panama City
Typical monthly ranges in USD for one person. Rent assumes a modern one-bedroom in a central, expat-friendly area.
| Category | Per month |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | $450-800 |
| Food | $200-400 |
| Transportation | $100-200 |
| Entertainment | $150-300 |
| Miscellaneous | $150-250 |
| Estimated total | $1,000 |
- Average date
- $25
- Local beer
- $2.5
- Gym / month
- $35
Want a personalized number? Try the cost of living calculator.
Dating scene in Panama City
Apps that work here
- How to approach
- Mix of traditional and modern. Business-minded women common. Be well-dressed and ambitious.
- First dates
- Upscale restaurant or rooftop bar. Business casual dress. Always pay. Status conscious.
- Who pays
- Business-minded. Appreciate success. Higher expectations than neighbors. Status conscious.
- Communication
- Mix of formal and casual. Business influence. More direct than neighbors. Status mentioned.
- Family involvement
- Moderate
Relationships and marriage culture
US influence visible. Business-oriented culture. Mixed traditional and modern values. International atmosphere.
Where to live in Panama City
Neighborhoods that expats and foreigners tend to choose for safety, walkability and social life.
- El Cangrejo
- Obarrio
- San Francisco
- Punta Pacifica
- Casco Viejo
Most newcomers report feeling settled after about 3 months.
Culture, customs and climate
Do
- +Learn Spanish
- +Understand US influence
- +Be respectful
- +Appreciate diversity
- +Be well-dressed
- +Be social
Don't
- −Don't assume everyone speaks English
- −Avoid discussing canal politics
- −Don't be impatient
- −Never be disrespectful
- −Don't dress sloppily
- −Avoid dangerous areas
Climate and lifestyle
Tropical consistency · Two seasons only · Ocean breeze · No hurricanes
Safety in Panama City
Panama City scores 7/10 for safety and 7/10 for healthcare quality. The issues below are the ones foreigners most often report. Standard big-city precautions apply everywhere.
- Express kidnappingLow
- Neighborhood gang activityModerate
See country-level advisories on the safety ratings page.