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Pros and Cons of Living in Panama City, Panama | Expat Exchange
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Panama Cathedral in Panama City

Pros and Cons of Living in Panama City

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Sep 25, 2023

Summary: The pros of living in Panama City, Panama include its tropical climate, its vibrant culture, its low cost of living, and its proximity to the Caribbean Sea. On the other hand, the cons of living in Panama City include its high levels of air pollution, its high crime rate, and its lack of public transportation infrastructure.

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

What are the pros and cons of living in Panama City?

Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Panama City responded:

"Nothing works right in Panama. It's very difficult to get quality workmanship. Also, it's too humid here for most people. The Covid lockdowns have been terrible and Panama is going through a near-depression right now. We plan on leaving this year for Portugal," remarked one expat in Panama City.

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What do expats in Panama City appreciate most about the local culture?

"Very friendly people here at restaurants, stores, banks, public offices......they will always help you and are very welcoming," said one expat in Panama City.

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What do expats find most challenging?

"Expats in Panama City often find the language barrier to be one of the most challenging aspects of the local culture. Additionally, the city's hot and humid climate can be difficult to adjust to. Expats may also find it difficult to navigate the city's complex bureaucracy and to understand the local customs and traditions. Furthermore, the cost of living in Panama City can be high, making it difficult for expats to find affordable housing and other necessities," remarked one expat in Panama City.

"For me it has been difficult to learn the language at my age. I try, I make my mistakes, but I am determined and so amazed at what is possible when you want something bad enough. To not learn the language is to miss out on so much," explained one expat living in Panama City.

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.

Panama Cathedral in Panama City
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