Panama is consistently ranked as one of the best places in the world to retire—and it’s easy to see why. This tropical paradise checks all the boxes for retirees. The Pensionado Visa is simple to obtain. The economy runs on the US dollar, making finances straightforward. Add in year-round warm weather, a low cost of living, and affordable, world-class healthcare, and you have a retiree’s dream destination. It’s no wonder Panama tops the list year after year!
But what about the Panama’s livability secrets that no one talks about? Like the country’s fiber optic network that gives you blazing-fast Internet. Or its hurricane-free location. Or the vibrant restaurant scene that will thrill even the most passionate foodies. Sure, the Pensionado Visa might bring you here, but these 11 surprising reasons will make you WANT to stay—and keep you loving every moment of your retirement in Panama.
#11: Amazing Tax Benefits
Panama’s tax system is incredibly retiree-friendly. Thanks to its territorial tax system, you won’t pay taxes on income earned outside the country. Plus, there are property tax exemptions still available when you buy real estate. It’s a great place to keep MORE of what’s yours.
To learn more about Panama’s tax system, be sure to check out this video, 7 Things You Must Know About Panama's Tax System.
#10: Excellent Internet and Connectivity
Unlike many tropical countries, Panama offers fast and reliable internet, even in remote areas. If you’re looking to stay connected with family, continue remote work, or stream your favorite shows, Panama’s modern infrastructure ensures you’re never offline. In and around Panama City, you can get fiber optic Internet that will give you 1 gigabyte download speed, and the same speed to upload. This is especially important when you’re uploading photos and videos of your new life in Panama… to share with your family and friends.
#9: A Foodie’s Dream Come True
I’m a foodie, and Panama’s restaurant scene was one of the deciding factors for me when I moved here. Not surprising, Panama’s culinary scene is as diverse as its people. From fresh ceviche and tropical fruit to a growing number of international cuisines, there’s always something new to try. Plus, if you love to cook, the local markets offer fresh ingredients for pennies on the dollar.
For more about the Panama City food scene, be sure to watch Episode 19 about the best types of cuisine you can find.
#8: Fresh, Clean Drinking Water
While many countries are struggling to provide clean water, Panama has an abundance of fresh water. The country is crisscrossed by rivers, lakes, and streams, and clean drinking water is readily available. This is a huge plus because you don’t have to worry about buying or boiling your water… and you don’t have to worry about Montezuma’s revenge!
#7: A Gateway to the World
Thanks to Tocumen International Airport, Panama is a gateway to the world. Located in Panama City, this key international airport is known as the "Hub of the Americas.” Thanks to the recent airport expansion that doubled the number of boarding gates and tripled the number of passengers that could be processed each year, and connects you to over 80 destinations worldwide. This makes Panama an easy hub for all the travel and exploration you have planned. Plus, once you get your pensionado visa, you can get a 25% discount on travel that originates in Panama. This surplus of cash alone can fund your retirement in Panama.
#6: A Safe Haven from Natural Disasters
Panama is one of the safest countries in the region when it comes to natural disasters. It’s outside the hurricane belt, it has no active volcanoes, and it experiences minimal seismic activity. You can enjoy peace of mind while living here. Plus, as a big side perk, this lack of natural disasters keeps your homeowner’s insurance dirt cheap.
Watch this video to learn why Panama doesn't get hurricanes.
#5: Panama’s Growing Eco-Tourism Scene
Eco-tourism is booming in Panama, with opportunities to explore unspoiled rainforests, indigenous communities, and sustainable resorts. As a retiree, you can enjoy activities like birdwatching, hiking, and eco-friendly adventures, knowing you’re supporting conservation efforts.
#4: Top-Notch Banking System
Panama has one of the most robust and secure banking systems in Latin America. With options for multi-currency accounts and a strong tradition of privacy, Panama makes managing your finances simple and secure.
#3: An Emphasis on Wellness and Outdoors
Panama’s lifestyle naturally promotes health and wellness. With fresh food, clean air, and outdoor activities like hiking, snorkeling, and yoga retreats, it’s easier to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle here than in many other places. In fact, many people look and feel younger once they’ve moved to Panama, and many others lose weight, thanks to the healthy lifestyle.
#2: Thriving Art and Music Scene
Panama’s art and music culture is thriving, from jazz festivals in Boquete to street art in Casco Viejo. Retirees can immerse themselves in local creativity or even participate in the vibrant expat-led workshops and classes. Since moving to Panama, I’ve met artists, musicians, dancers and even opera singers.
#1: Community-Focused Living
The sense of community in Panama is unparalleled. Whether you’re in a bustling city or a tranquil mountain town, there’s a culture of togetherness. Locals and expats alike value connection, making it easy to form lifelong friendships and truly feel at home.
For a deeper dive on this important topic, watch this video next to understand why it's so important to be part of a community. (I'll give you a hint... it's just as important as food or shelter!)
Closing
There you have it—11 incredible and little-known reasons why Panama is the best place to retire in 2025! From clean drinking water and a well-connected international to a safe haven from natural disasters, Panama has everything you need to enjoy the retirement you’ve always dreamed of.
Thank you for tuning in.
See you in Panama!
But what about the Panama’s livability secrets that no one talks about? Like the country’s fiber optic network that gives you blazing-fast Internet. Or its hurricane-free location. Or the vibrant restaurant scene that will thrill even the most passionate foodies. Sure, the Pensionado Visa might bring you here, but these 11 surprising reasons will make you WANT to stay—and keep you loving every moment of your retirement in Panama.
#11: Amazing Tax Benefits
Panama’s tax system is incredibly retiree-friendly. Thanks to its territorial tax system, you won’t pay taxes on income earned outside the country. Plus, there are property tax exemptions still available when you buy real estate. It’s a great place to keep MORE of what’s yours.
To learn more about Panama’s tax system, be sure to check out this video, 7 Things You Must Know About Panama's Tax System.
#10: Excellent Internet and Connectivity
Unlike many tropical countries, Panama offers fast and reliable internet, even in remote areas. If you’re looking to stay connected with family, continue remote work, or stream your favorite shows, Panama’s modern infrastructure ensures you’re never offline. In and around Panama City, you can get fiber optic Internet that will give you 1 gigabyte download speed, and the same speed to upload. This is especially important when you’re uploading photos and videos of your new life in Panama… to share with your family and friends.
#9: A Foodie’s Dream Come True
I’m a foodie, and Panama’s restaurant scene was one of the deciding factors for me when I moved here. Not surprising, Panama’s culinary scene is as diverse as its people. From fresh ceviche and tropical fruit to a growing number of international cuisines, there’s always something new to try. Plus, if you love to cook, the local markets offer fresh ingredients for pennies on the dollar.
For more about the Panama City food scene, be sure to watch Episode 19 about the best types of cuisine you can find.
#8: Fresh, Clean Drinking Water
While many countries are struggling to provide clean water, Panama has an abundance of fresh water. The country is crisscrossed by rivers, lakes, and streams, and clean drinking water is readily available. This is a huge plus because you don’t have to worry about buying or boiling your water… and you don’t have to worry about Montezuma’s revenge!
#7: A Gateway to the World
Thanks to Tocumen International Airport, Panama is a gateway to the world. Located in Panama City, this key international airport is known as the "Hub of the Americas.” Thanks to the recent airport expansion that doubled the number of boarding gates and tripled the number of passengers that could be processed each year, and connects you to over 80 destinations worldwide. This makes Panama an easy hub for all the travel and exploration you have planned. Plus, once you get your pensionado visa, you can get a 25% discount on travel that originates in Panama. This surplus of cash alone can fund your retirement in Panama.
#6: A Safe Haven from Natural Disasters
Panama is one of the safest countries in the region when it comes to natural disasters. It’s outside the hurricane belt, it has no active volcanoes, and it experiences minimal seismic activity. You can enjoy peace of mind while living here. Plus, as a big side perk, this lack of natural disasters keeps your homeowner’s insurance dirt cheap.
Watch this video to learn why Panama doesn't get hurricanes.
#5: Panama’s Growing Eco-Tourism Scene
Eco-tourism is booming in Panama, with opportunities to explore unspoiled rainforests, indigenous communities, and sustainable resorts. As a retiree, you can enjoy activities like birdwatching, hiking, and eco-friendly adventures, knowing you’re supporting conservation efforts.
#4: Top-Notch Banking System
Panama has one of the most robust and secure banking systems in Latin America. With options for multi-currency accounts and a strong tradition of privacy, Panama makes managing your finances simple and secure.
#3: An Emphasis on Wellness and Outdoors
Panama’s lifestyle naturally promotes health and wellness. With fresh food, clean air, and outdoor activities like hiking, snorkeling, and yoga retreats, it’s easier to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle here than in many other places. In fact, many people look and feel younger once they’ve moved to Panama, and many others lose weight, thanks to the healthy lifestyle.
#2: Thriving Art and Music Scene
Panama’s art and music culture is thriving, from jazz festivals in Boquete to street art in Casco Viejo. Retirees can immerse themselves in local creativity or even participate in the vibrant expat-led workshops and classes. Since moving to Panama, I’ve met artists, musicians, dancers and even opera singers.
#1: Community-Focused Living
The sense of community in Panama is unparalleled. Whether you’re in a bustling city or a tranquil mountain town, there’s a culture of togetherness. Locals and expats alike value connection, making it easy to form lifelong friendships and truly feel at home.
For a deeper dive on this important topic, watch this video next to understand why it's so important to be part of a community. (I'll give you a hint... it's just as important as food or shelter!)
Closing
There you have it—11 incredible and little-known reasons why Panama is the best place to retire in 2025! From clean drinking water and a well-connected international to a safe haven from natural disasters, Panama has everything you need to enjoy the retirement you’ve always dreamed of.
Thank you for tuning in.
See you in Panama!
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