Best Neighborhoods for Families in Panama City

Panama City, is a vibrant metropolis that has become a hub for expats and digital nomads from around the world. With its cosmopolitan atmosphere, bustling economy, and tropical climate, it's no wonder that families are looking to set down roots in this Central American city. When it comes to finding the perfect neighborhood, there are several areas that stand out for their family-friendly amenities, safety, and community vibe. Here are some of the best neighborhoods in Panama City for families to consider.

Costa del Este

Costa del Este is a planned community that offers a suburban feel within the city. It's popular among expat families due to its modern infrastructure, green spaces, and high-quality amenities. Families can enjoy the Town Center Mall, which includes a cinema and various entertainment options. The neighborhood also boasts several parks, such as Parque Felipe Motta, which is a favorite for weekend picnics and outdoor activities.

Location: East side of Panama City, near the Corredor Sur highway

Real Estate: Average rental price for a 3-bedroom apartment is around $2,000-$3,000 per month, while purchase prices can range from $300,000 to over $1 million depending on the property.

International Schools: Costa del Este is home to several international schools, including the AIP Academy of International Education and the International School of Panama, which offer education from early childhood to high school with American and International Baccalaureate curriculums.

Where to Eat: The area has a variety of dining options, from casual eateries like Athanasiou for Greek pastries to upscale restaurants such as La Vespa.

Interesting History: Costa del Este was developed on reclaimed land from the sea, transforming it into one of the most upscale areas in Panama City.

Parks: Parque Costa del Este is the most popular park in the area, offering walking trails, playgrounds, and sports fields.

Punta Pacifica

Punta Pacifica is known for its luxury living and is a great choice for families looking for an upscale environment. The neighborhood is home to the Multiplaza Pacific Mall, providing access to a wide range of shops and entertainment. The area is also known for its safety and private schools, making it a top choice for expat families.

Location: In the heart of Panama City, adjacent to the Pacific Ocean

Real Estate: Rental prices for a 3-bedroom apartment average between $2,500 and $4,000, while buying a property can cost anywhere from $400,000 to several million dollars.

International Schools: Nearby international schools include the Oxford International School and the Balboa Academy, offering bilingual education and various international curriculums.

Where to Eat: Punta Pacifica has a range of dining options, including Maito, which features Panamanian fusion cuisine, and Segundo Muelle for Peruvian dishes.

Interesting History: The area was once less developed but has seen rapid growth and transformation into a high-end residential district.

Parks: Although Punta Pacifica is more urban, it is close to the Cinta Costera, a waterfront promenade that offers green spaces and recreational areas.

Clayton

Clayton is a family-friendly neighborhood that was once a U.S. military base. It is now a peaceful area with a strong sense of community, making it ideal for families. The City of Knowledge, located in Clayton, is a hub for education and culture, offering various events and activities for families. The area also has numerous parks, such as Kiwanis Park, which is perfect for children to play and explore.

Location: Northwest of the city center, near the Panama Canal

Real Estate: The average rental price for a 3-bedroom house ranges from $1,500 to $2,500, with purchase prices typically between $250,000 and $600,000.

International Schools: Clayton is home to the Kings College, The British School of Panama, and the International School of Panama, offering British and American educational programs.

Where to Eat: Families can enjoy a variety of restaurants such as La Rana Dorada for craft beer and pizza, or the Elephant Grill for international cuisine.

Interesting History: Clayton played a significant role during the U.S. presence in Panama, and remnants of its past can still be seen in the old military structures.

Parks: Kiwanis Park is a favorite among locals for its playgrounds and sports facilities.

Albrook

Albrook is another area that was part of the former Canal Zone and is now a tranquil residential neighborhood. It is known for its lush surroundings and the Albrook Mall, one of the largest shopping centers in Latin America. Families can enjoy the nearby Metropolitan Natural Park for hiking and wildlife spotting, making it a great place for nature lovers.

Location: Adjacent to the Marcos A. Gelabert International Airport, west of the city center

Real Estate: Rental prices for a 3-bedroom home are typically between $1,200 and $2,000, with purchase prices ranging from $200,000 to $500,000.

International Schools: Albrook is close to several bilingual schools, including the Metropolitan School of Panama and the Isaac Rabin School.

Where to Eat: Dining options include the Albrook Mall food court for quick bites and Lenos & Carbon for authentic Panamanian barbecue.

Interesting History: Albrook Air Force Station was a key U.S. military airbase, and the area still retains some of its historical character.

Parks: The Metropolitan Natural Park is a major attraction, offering a natural retreat within the city limits.

San Francisco

San Francisco is a diverse and vibrant neighborhood that is popular with both locals and expats. It offers a mix of residential and commercial areas, with plenty of amenities for families. The Parque Omar is the neighborhood's green lung, providing a large space for jogging, sports, and cultural events. The area also has a variety of schools and is known for its food scene, with numerous restaurants and cafes.

Location: Central Panama City, close to the banking district

Real Estate: The average rental price for a 3-bedroom apartment is around $1,500 to $2,500, with purchase prices ranging from $250,000 to $600,000.

International Schools: San Francisco has several bilingual schools, including the Panamerican School and the Oxford School, which offer a mix of local and international curriculums.

Where to Eat: The neighborhood is known for its culinary diversity, with options like Mercado de Mariscos for fresh seafood and Esa Flaca Rica for gourmet burgers.

Interesting History: San Francisco has grown from a residential area to a bustling neighborhood with a mix of old homes and new developments.

Parks: Parque Omar is the main park in the area, often hosting community events and offering various recreational facilities.

El Cangrejo

El Cangrejo is a lively and central neighborhood with a bohemian flair, making it attractive for families who enjoy a more urban lifestyle. It has a strong community feel, with a mix of local and international residents. The area is known for its walkability, with plenty of shops, restaurants, and cafes. Andres Bello Park in El Cangrejo is a popular spot for families to relax and play.

Location: In the heart of Panama City, near the Via Argentina metro station

Real Estate: Rental prices for a 3-bedroom apartment average between $1,200 and $2,000, with purchase prices typically between $200,000 and $400,000.

International Schools: While there are no international schools directly in El Cangrejo, there are several options nearby, such as the Oxford School and the International School of Panama.

Where to Eat: El Cangrejo boasts a variety of dining options, from local favorites like El Trapiche for traditional Panamanian dishes to international cuisine at Del Prado.

Interesting History: The neighborhood's name, which means "The Crab," is derived from its crab-like street layout, designed by French urban planners.

Parks: Andres Bello Park is a central feature of the neighborhood, offering a playground, sports courts, and green spaces.

Bella Vista

Bella Vista is a historic district that combines old-world charm with modern amenities, making it a unique place for families to live. It is home to the beautiful coastal strip, Cinta Costera, which is perfect for family walks, bike rides, and outdoor activities. The neighborhood also has a range of educational institutions and is known for its cultural offerings, including theaters and art galleries.

Location: Along the bay of Panama City, adjacent to the historic district of Casco Viejo

Real Estate: Rental prices for a 3-bedroom apartment can range from $1,000 to $2,500, with purchase prices between $150,000 and $500,000.

International Schools: Bella Vista is close to several bilingual schools, such as the Episcopal School of Panama and the Oxford School.

Where to Eat: The area is known for its diverse food scene, with options like Caliope for upscale dining and El Caribe for Caribbean-inspired dishes.

Interesting History: Bella Vista features a mix of art deco and colonial architecture, reflecting its historical development.

Parks: The Cinta Costera is the main recreational area, offering extensive green spaces and playgrounds along the waterfront.

Altos del Golf

Altos del Golf is an exclusive residential area known for its spacious homes and quiet streets. It's adjacent to the Parque Omar, providing families with easy access to one of the city's largest parks. The neighborhood is also known for its privacy and security, making it a preferred choice for affluent families and expats seeking a peaceful environment.

Location: Next to the San Francisco neighborhood, south of the city center

Real Estate: Rental prices for a 3-bedroom home can be upwards of $2,500, with purchase prices often exceeding $500,000.

International Schools: While there are no international schools within Altos del Golf, the nearby San Francisco area offers several options.

Where to Eat: Altos del Golf is primarily residential, but nearby San Francisco has numerous dining options, including the renowned Riesen for a fine dining experience.

Interesting History: Altos del Golf has developed into one of the most prestigious neighborhoods in Panama City, with a history of housing some of the city's most influential residents.

Parks: The neighborhood's proximity to Parque Omar means residents have easy access to its extensive facilities, including sports courts and cultural events.