Ever thought about moving abroad for retirement? Low cost of living, plus huge quality life is a reason many leave the U.S. for greener grass. So what about moving to Panama?
Panama has secured the top spot as the world’s best country for expats for the second consecutive year, with an remarkable 94% of foreign residents expressing satisfaction with their life abroad, according to the comprehensive 2025 InterNations Expat Insider survey.
The Central American nation outperformed 45 other global destinations in the annual survey, which gathered insights from over 10,000 expats representing 172 nationalities living worldwide. The results paint a compelling picture of a country that has mastered the art of making foreign residents feel welcome, financially secure, and genuinely happy with their decision to relocate.
Overwhelming Expat Satisfaction
The survey’s most striking finding is the sheer level of contentment among Panama’s expat community. With 94% of respondents reporting happiness with their life abroad, significantly higher than the global average of 68%, Panama has established itself as a destination where the expat dream becomes reality.
“Panama has a perfect mix of decent infrastructure at affordable prices in combination with a pleasant climate and, most importantly, a culture that’s open, friendly and easy to integrate with,” explains Kathrin Chudoba, Chief Marketing Officer at InterNations.
The country’s appeal extends beyond temporary stays, with 35% of expats indicating they plan to remain in Panama forever, a testament to the country’s ability to create lasting bonds with its international residents.
Financial Paradise for Expats
One of Panama’s standout achievements lies in its financial attractiveness to expats. An impressive 78% of survey respondents expressed satisfaction with their financial situation, compared to just 54% globally. This places Panama third worldwide for financial satisfaction, trailing only Colombia and Vietnam.
The financial benefits are multifaceted:
Cost of Living Advantages:
- Monthly living costs range from $800-$1,500 in smaller towns and rural areas
- Panama City living requires $2,000-$2,500 monthly, still significantly lower than major U.S. or European cities
- 71% of expats report positive experiences finding affordable housing (compared to just 34% globally)
- Use of the U.S. dollar eliminates currency exchange complications for American expats
Strong Purchasing Power:
- 74% of expats report their disposable income allows for a comfortable lifestyle
- Lower costs enable higher quality of life on moderate incomes
- Affordable services and amenities stretch expat budgets considerably
Retiree Haven
Panama has emerged as a premier destination for retirees, with 35% of expat survey respondents already retired, more than three times the global average of 11%. An additional 18% cited retirement as their primary motivation for relocating to the country.
The country’s appeal to retirees stems from several key factors:
Panama’s Pensionado Visa Program makes retirement relocation remarkably straightforward, featuring a simple application process with minimal paperwork and requiring only a $1,000 monthly income guarantee. The program provides a clear pathway to permanent residency while offering various discounts on services and activities throughout the country, making it an attractive option for retirees seeking both legal security and financial benefits.
The retirement-friendly environment extends well beyond visa convenience, offering high-quality healthcare at affordable prices and a year-round pleasant climate that eliminates concerns about harsh winters or extreme weather. Strong expat communities provide essential social support networks, while English is widely spoken in expat-concentrated areas, easing the transition for English-speaking retirees who may be concerned about language barriers.
Exceptional Quality of Life
Panama ranked third globally in the quality of life index, reflecting the country’s success in providing expats with a superior living environment. Key quality of life factors include:
Climate and Environment:
- Year-round tropical climate with minimal seasonal variation
- Diverse landscapes from beaches to mountains
- Rich biodiversity and natural beauty
- Excellent opportunities for outdoor activities
Infrastructure and Amenities:
- Modern infrastructure in major cities
- Reliable internet and telecommunications
- Good transportation networks
- Growing retail and dining options
Safety and Security:
- Generally safe environment for expats
- Low crime rates in expat-focused areas
- Stable political climate
- Respect for property rights
Work-Life Balance Achievement
Panama excels in providing expats with an enviable work-life balance, ranking third globally in this category. The average 41-hour work week is shorter than in the United States or much of Asia, creating ample time for expats to enjoy the country’s natural beauty and cultural offerings.
Panama’s growing economy offers substantial professional opportunities for expats, with international business opportunities flourishing alongside remote work-friendly infrastructure that supports the modern digital workforce. The expanding service sector actively welcomes foreign expertise, while entrepreneurship opportunities abound for business-minded expats looking to establish their own ventures in this dynamic market.
The leisure and recreation options are equally impressive, providing abundant travel opportunities throughout Central America for weekend getaways and extended exploration. Expats enjoy a rich cultural scene filled with festivals and events throughout the year, while excellent restaurants serve both international and local cuisine to satisfy diverse palates. Water sports, hiking, and outdoor recreation activities are readily available year-round, taking advantage of Panama’s diverse geography from coastal areas to mountain regions.
Regional Connectivity
Panama’s strategic location provides expats with exceptional travel opportunities throughout Central and South America. The country serves as a natural hub for exploring the region while maintaining modern amenities and infrastructure.
Geographic Advantages:
- Easy access to both Pacific and Caribbean coasts
- Short flights to major North and South American cities
- Land borders with Costa Rica and Colombia
- Panama Canal as both tourist attraction and economic driver
Global Context
Panama’s success stands in stark contrast to challenging expat destinations. The survey identified Kuwait as the worst country for expats for the seventh time, while Turkey and Finland also ranked poorly. The results highlight how factors like cultural openness, financial accessibility, and administrative efficiency can dramatically impact expat experiences.
Looking Forward
Panama’s consecutive years at the top of the expat satisfaction rankings suggest the country has developed a sustainable model for international resident attraction and retention. The combination of affordability, quality of life, cultural warmth, and administrative efficiency creates a compelling package for those considering life abroad.
For potential expats evaluating relocation options, Panama’s survey results provide strong evidence of a destination where international residents don’t just survive, they thrive. The country’s ability to maintain such high satisfaction levels across diverse expat demographics suggests a robust foundation for continued success in the global competition for international talent and residents.
The survey results reinforce Panama’s position as more than just a tropical paradise, it’s a genuine alternative for those seeking a better quality of life, financial stability, and a warm welcome in their adopted home.