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Moving to Boquete, Panama | Expat Exchange
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Boquete, Panama

Moving to Boquete, Panama

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Jul 23, 2024

Summary: Expats move to Boquete, Panama for its stunning natural beauty, temperate climate, and low cost of living. The area is known for its lush green mountains, coffee plantations, and stunning waterfalls. Boquete also offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, rafting, and bird watching. Additionally, the town is home to a vibrant expat community, making it easy to make friends and find support. With its low cost of living, Boquete is an attractive option for retirees and digital nomads looking to stretch their budget.

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Business Panama Group
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Business Panama Group

What do I need to know before moving to Boquete?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Boquete, they said:

"HIRE a local attorney before getting or signing anything. We did so and VERY happy that we did . Do not believe or trust anyone. There are many "reject" Gringos there trying to make a buck and Panamanian law works SLOWLY," said one expat in Boquete.

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How do I find a place to live in Boquete?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Boquete is to search online for rental listings. There are many websites that offer listings for apartments, houses, and other types of rental properties in Boquete. Additionally, you can also search for local real estate agents who specialize in Boquete rentals. They can provide you with more information about the area and help you find the perfect place to live. Additionally, you can also ask around in the local community for recommendations on rental properties," remarked one expat in Boquete, Panama.

"We lived in Panama City for a short time while we were waiting for our goods to arrive. The heat is almost unbearable. We had visited Boquete on previous visits and decided that its mild weather is a good choice. Never too hot or too cold. We purchase a dehumidifier for the rainy season, but you don't need an air conditioner or space heater. A lighted ceiling fan is all you need," said one expat in Alto Boquete.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Boquete?

"Typical construction of homes in Boquete, or all of Panama, is lack of insulation. During rainy season the rain drops, size of marbles on a tin roof is deafening. You may want to keep ear plugs nearby," explained one expat living in Boquete, Panama.

"3 bedroom 2 bath homes. In Boquete it is typical to have a home but there are some apartments available. When you make any change to your house you will be overcharged and you will receive poor quality work. Your electricity will be high, and undependable, and you will never have the bill delivered to your house. It is your responsible to know when the bill is due and your responsibility to go to them and pay it. (the Post Office does not deliver mail. you may not even have a street name and house number.)," said one expat in Boquete.

"We have a 2 bedroom rental house up the hill from Boquete town. It is our preferred area. We were lucky and planned well in advance of moving here," said one expat who made the move to Boquete.

"Homes in Boquete range from quite rustic Panamanian style homes to large luxury homes. It all depends on your desires and budget! Most homes in Panama are concrete block construction. I will disagree with the previous poster, most homes in Boquete do not have either AC or heat, as it is not needed due to the stable and comfortable air temperature. As you drive from Boquete to David it get significantly hotter and AC would be highly desirable in those areas. See homes at https://casasolution.com," explained one expat living in Boquete, Panama.

"Expat homes and apartments in Boquete are typically modern and comfortable, with many featuring open-plan living areas, large windows, and balconies with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Many homes and apartments come with amenities such as air conditioning, cable TV, and high-speed internet. Expats can also find a variety of housing options, from luxury villas to more affordable apartments. Boquete is a great place for expats to live, with its temperate climate, friendly locals, and abundance of outdoor activities," said one in Boquete.

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What is the average cost of housing in Boquete?

If you are thinking about moving to Boquete, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The cost of housing in Boquete varies depending on the size and location of the property. Generally, the average cost of a one-bedroom apartment in Boquete is around $500 per month, while a three-bedroom house can cost up to $1,500 per month. Prices can also vary depending on the amenities offered, such as a pool or a view," replied a member in Boquete.

"Monthly rental is $905.00 per month cheaper. Housing here is between $600 $700 for two bedrooms. There are real estate people here who will find a house or apartment for you. Be prepared, every local has his hand out. Everyone from the cab drivers to our exterminator will offer to find a house for you. They have contacts and get commissions. But make no mistake, the Panamanians are all good-hearted and mean well. Sometimes strike gold," commented one expat who made the move to Alto Boquete.

"Our rent (including electric, gas and high-speed internet) is less than half of just our mortgage in S. Florida. Tip: if internet is important to you, don't ask, "do you have internet" since everyone can get it. Ask, "what speed internet can I get and how much does it cost?" We pay about $50 for 5G megs mo. Five minutes away it is $150 for 1meg," remarked one expat in Boquete, Panama.

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Should I buy or rent a home in Boquete?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Boquete, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"Buying a home in Boquete can be a great investment, as the area is known for its beautiful scenery and pleasant climate. Renting a home in Boquete can also be a great option, as it allows you to experience the area without the long-term commitment of buying a home. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Boquete should be based on your individual needs and preferences," explained one expat living in Boquete, Panama.

"Rent. Not difficult, but a bit seasonal. Purchasing is easy, but selling a home takes a very, very long time, so it's advisable to rent first, always," said one expat in Boquete.

What should I pack when moving to Boquete?

We asked people living in Boquete to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:

"Full size vacuum cleaner. I brought all of my slacks. In Panama we are going through a phase of slacks and jeans with 3" zippers. If your are not wearing a thong, you better have a very long shirt. I don't have any idea when this style will change. There are no Talbot's type shops here. Shoes are reasonably priced. We wish we had brought power tools. They are more expensive here than at Home Depot. If you have a computer, bring a modem. Bring your car. Roads vary from super highways to dirt roads. New cars are expensive in Panama," commented one expat who made the move to Alto Boquete.

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Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.

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Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Boquete?

We asked people in Boquete if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:

"It is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions when visiting Boquete. It is considered rude to point with your finger, so it is best to use an open hand when gesturing. It is also important to dress modestly, as shorts and tank tops are generally not considered appropriate attire. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local language and to avoid speaking loudly or using offensive language. Finally, it is important to be respectful of the local environment and to avoid littering or damaging the natural environment," remarked one expat in Boquete, Panama.

Why do people move to Boquete?

When we asked people why foreigners move to Boquete, they responded:

"Boquete is a popular destination for expats due to its stunning natural beauty, temperate climate, and low cost of living. The area is known for its lush green mountains, stunning waterfalls, and picturesque coffee plantations. Boquete also offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, rafting, and bird watching. Additionally, the town is home to a vibrant expat community, with many expats choosing to retire in Boquete due to its low cost of living and relaxed lifestyle. With its stunning scenery, temperate climate, and low cost of living, Boquete is an attractive destination for expats looking for a new home," commented one expat living in Boquete.

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How are healthcare services Boquete?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Boquete, they replied:

"Boquete offers a variety of healthcare services to its residents and visitors. The town has a modern hospital, Hospital Chiriquí, which provides a wide range of medical services, including emergency care, general surgery, obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, and internal medicine. Additionally, there are several private clinics in Boquete that offer specialized medical services, such as cardiology, orthopedics, and dermatology. Boquete also has a number of pharmacies that provide prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs. For those seeking alternative treatments, there are several spas and wellness centers in the area that offer massage, acupuncture, and other holistic therapies," wrote one expat living in Boquete.

What are medical services in Boquete like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Boquete, they replied:

"Boquete offers a wide range of medical services. The town has several private clinics and hospitals that provide quality medical care. Many of these facilities are staffed by experienced and qualified doctors and nurses. Additionally, Boquete has a number of pharmacies that offer a variety of medications and medical supplies. The town also has a number of medical specialists, such as dentists, optometrists, and physical therapists, who are available to provide specialized care. Boquete also has a number of medical laboratories that offer diagnostic testing and other services. In addition, the town has a number of medical centers that provide emergency care and other medical services," commented one expat living in Boquete.

"Many doctors live in our town and the facilities are quite adequate for expat healthcare," commented one expat who moved to Boquete, Panama.

About the Author

Joshua Wood 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.

Boquete, Panama
Panama Legal Business (PANLEB)
Panama Legal Business (PANLEB)

Discover a full range of legal services in Panama, from residency and visas to bank accounts, company formation, and real estate advice. Trust Panama Legal Business.
Get Quotes

Panama Legal Business (PANLEB)Panama Legal Business (PANLEB)

Discover a full range of legal services in Panama, from residency and visas to bank accounts, company formation, and real estate advice. Trust Panama Legal Business.
Get Quotes

Business Panama Group
Business Panama Group

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