Cost Of Living For a Single Person in Panama 2024

Single person cost of living chart - individual average monthly expenditure in Panama

Average Monthly Expenditure

Currency: PAB
200 1,400 9,300
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$200 $1,400 $9,300

Average monthly spending for a single person or individual in Panama

How much money does an individual need in a month to survive in Panama?

A single person in Panama spends around 1,400 PAB per month on average. Depending on the lifestyle, a single individual can survive with a monthly budget as low as 200 PAB or as high as 9,300 PAB. Location and income are very important factors and have a huge influence on expenditure and budget.


Prices and cost of goods and services in Panama


Chart showing the prices and cost of grocery, food, restaurant meals, market, and beverages in Panama

Dining, food, and beverages costs


Fast food combo meal

2.1 PAB 4.3 PAB 7.1 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$2.1 $4.3 $7.1

Restaurant meal for one

7.1 PAB 11 PAB 21 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$7.1 $11 $21

Fine dining meal for one

14 PAB 21 PAB 85 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$14 $21 $85

Cappuccino or latte

1.8 PAB 2.8 PAB 4.3 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$1.8 $2.8 $4.3

Grocery and market costs


Milk large bottle

1.4 PAB 1.7 PAB 2.1 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$1.4 $1.7 $2.1

12 eggs

1.1 PAB 1.4 PAB 2.1 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$1.1 $1.4 $2.1

Fresh whole chicken

2.4 PAB 3.1 PAB 4.4 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$2.4 $3.1 $4.4

Pack of beef

2.8 PAB 4.3 PAB 8.5 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$2.8 $4.3 $8.5

Medium bag of rice

1.1 PAB 1.6 PAB 2.2 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$1.1 $1.6 $2.2

Bag of tomatos

0.43 PAB 0.57 PAB 1.1 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$0.43 $0.57 $1.1

Bag of apples

0.76 PAB 0.99 PAB 1.6 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$0.76 $0.99 $1.6
Chart showing the prices and cost of commute, travel, and transportation in Panama


Commute, travel, and transportation costs


20 minutes taxi ride

1.8 PAB 2.1 PAB 4.3 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$1.8 $2.1 $4.3

Average car full tank

11 PAB 14 PAB 28 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$11 $14 $28

Average car 1-day rental

11 PAB 14 PAB 21 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$11 $14 $21

Average car price

5,300 PAB 11,000 PAB 14,000 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$5,300 $11,000 $14,000

Bus ticket one way

0.36 PAB 0.53 PAB 1.1 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$0.36 $0.53 $1.1

Car Service

14 PAB 21 PAB 43 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$14 $21 $43
Chart showing the prices and cost of utility, energy, water, and gas in Panama


Utility cost (monthly)


Utility Bill - Individual

12 PAB 84 PAB 560 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$12 $84 $560

Internet and cable

11 PAB 21 PAB 28 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$11 $21 $28

Mobile phone charges

8.5 PAB 14 PAB 43 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$8.5 $14 $43

Leisure and activities costs


Movie ticket

5.3 PAB 7.1 PAB 11 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$5.3 $7.1 $11

One month gym membership

17 PAB 21 PAB 43 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$17 $21 $43
Chart showing the prices and cost of clothing and accessories in Panama


Cloths and accessories costs


Pair of jeans or pants

13 PAB 18 PAB 27 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$13 $18 $27

Woman dress

12 PAB 16 PAB 53 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$12 $16 $53

Woman shoes

11 PAB 15 PAB 35 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$11 $15 $35

Men's shoes

9.7 PAB 12 PAB 24 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$9.7 $12 $24

Men suit

11 PAB 13 PAB 71 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$11 $13 $71

Regular t-shirt

5.3 PAB 7.1 PAB 21 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$5.3 $7.1 $21
Chart showing the prices and cost of housing, accommodation, and rent in Panama


Housing costs / monthly rent


Studio apartment

180 PAB 270 PAB 710 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$180 $270 $710

1-bedroom apartment

270 PAB 430 PAB 1,100 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$270 $430 $1,100

2-bedroom apartment

350 PAB 530 PAB 1,400 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$350 $530 $1,400

Housing costs / Buying


Studio apartment

35,000 PAB 53,000 PAB 110,000 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$35,000 $53,000 $110,000

1-bedroom apartment

43,000 PAB 71,000 PAB 270,000 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$43,000 $71,000 $270,000

2-bedroom apartment

71,000 PAB 210,000 PAB 430,000 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$71,000 $210,000 $430,000
Chart showing the prices and cost of furniture in Panama


Furniture Costs


King Size Bed

210 PAB 270 PAB 350 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$210 $270 $350

Double Bed

140 PAB 210 PAB 270 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$140 $210 $270

Single Bed

130 PAB 160 PAB 210 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$130 $160 $210

Living Room

240 PAB 300 PAB 1,100 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$240 $300 $1,100

Dining Table

110 PAB 140 PAB 270 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$110 $140 $270

Sofa or Couch

140 PAB 190 PAB 430 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$140 $190 $430
Chart showing the prices and cost of electronic devices and appliances in Panama


Electronics and House Appliance Costs


TV Set

140 PAB 210 PAB 430 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$140 $210 $430

Fridge or Freezer

130 PAB 190 PAB 270 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$130 $190 $270

Washing Machine

160 PAB 240 PAB 430 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$160 $240 $430

Stove or Cooker

150 PAB 190 PAB 270 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$150 $190 $270

Mobile Phone

180 PAB 210 PAB 300 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$180 $210 $300

Laptop or Computer

190 PAB 240 PAB 430 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$190 $240 $430
Single person or Individual cost of living and expenditure to income ratio in Panama

Single person expenditure to income ratio in Panama

Analysing the how affordable it is for an individual to live in Panama

One of the most definite ways to determine how affordable a place is measuring the ratio of expenses to salary. A high expense-to-income to ratio indicates a high cost-of-living index while a low expenditure-to-salary ratio means the place is affordable to live in. Individuals usually spend a larger chunk of their income than other population groups. A typical and healthy expenditure percentage for a single individual ranges between 70% to 80%.


Spending to Income Ratio

77%

69% to 85%

( expenditure / income ) x 100


Individuals in Panama spend around 77% of their monthly income. Some individuals spend as low as 69% of their income while some as high as 85%.

Distribution of monthly cost of living expenses of a single person in Panama

How do individuals spend their money in Panama?

We asked thousands of individuals about their spending habits and expenditure break down.


The percentage figures in this section are percentages of total spending not income. If you would like to see the percentage of expenses as related to income or salary, see other sections.

Housing and accomodation expenditure for individuals

Accomodation Cost32%

32% of total expenses on average (20% to 44%)

LOW$71   71 PAB
AVERAGE$500   500 PAB
HIGH$3,300   3,300 PAB
Per Month

Individuals in Panama typically spend from 20% to 44% of their total monthly expenditure on housing with 32% being the average. The average monthly spend on housing is 500 PAB with expenditure ranging from 71 PAB to 3,300 PAB. This cost mainly goes for rent but it also includes other accommodation-related expenses.

Electricity, utilities, energy, water, internet, and mobile expenditure for individuals

Cost of utilities8%

8% of total expenses on average (4% to 13%)

LOW$12   12 PAB
AVERAGE$84   84 PAB
HIGH$560   560 PAB
Per Month

Utility expenditure like electricity, water, and gas in Panama ranges from 4% to 13% of total expenses with 8% being the average for most individuals. The average monthly cost of utilities is 84 PAB with 12 PAB and 560 PAB being the upper and lower limits for a single person.

Transport, fuel, and commute expenditure for individuals

Cost of transport and fuel6%

6% of total expenses on average (4% to 12%)

LOW$16   16 PAB
AVERAGE$110   110 PAB
HIGH$740   740 PAB
Per Month

Fuel consumption and cost of transport depend heavily on whether a single person resides near school and work, but roughly speaking a single person would expect to spend from 16 PAB to 740 PAB in a month on commuting with 110 PAB being the norm for most individuals. This means that money spent on transport constitutes about 6% of total spending on average but can go as low as 4% or as high as 12%.

Food, groceries, and basic shopping expenditure for individuals

Food and Groceries Cost18%

18% of total expenses on average (12% to 23%)

LOW$32   32 PAB
AVERAGE$220   220 PAB
HIGH$1,500   1,500 PAB
Per Month

The average outlay on groceries and basic houshold items for a typical person in a month in Panama is 220 PAB. The cost of groceries can range between 32 PAB to 1,500 PAB. Individuals spend on average about 18% on food and groceries with upper and lower bounds of 12% and 23% respectively.

Healthcare and medical services expenditure for individuals

Cost of healthcare11%

11% of total expenses on average (5% to 15%)

LOW$18   18 PAB
AVERAGE$130   130 PAB
HIGH$840   840 PAB
Per Month

Individuals in Panama allocate 5% to 15% of their total monthly expenditure to healthcare including health insurance and out-of-pocket medical expenses. The average spending on medical services and clinic visits is around 11%. The range of medical expenses range from 18 PAB to 840 PAB with 130 PAB being the norm for most individuals.

Leisure and shopping expenditure for individuals

Cost of leisure and shopping3%

3% of total expenses on average (3% to 6%)

LOW$9.9   9.9 PAB
AVERAGE$70   70 PAB
HIGH$460   460 PAB
Per Month

This category mostly contains discretionary or non-essential expenses but also some non-discretionary spending like furniture for example. The monthly expenses range from 9.9 PAB to 460 PAB with 70 PAB being the average. Speaking of percentages, that equates to 3% to 6% of total expenses with an average of 3% for most individuals.

Education and schooling expenditure for individuals

Cost of education and schooling2%

2% of total expenses on average (1% to 4%)

LOW$3.9   3.9 PAB
AVERAGE$28   28 PAB
HIGH$190   190 PAB
Per Month

Spending on education can vary drastically between different individuals. On average, education constitutes 2% of the monthly expenditure of individuals with 1% and 4% being the lower and upper bounds respectively. The average reported education cost is 28 PAB per month with 3.9 PAB being the minimum spent amount and 190 PAB being the maximum.

Other Expenses21%

21% of total expenses on average (13% to 25%)

LOW$35   35 PAB
AVERAGE$250   250 PAB
HIGH$1,700   1,700 PAB
Per Month
Percentage of individuals who manage to save money from their income every month in Panama

What percentage of individuals in Panama are able to save money and how much can they save?


Percentage of individuals that reported their ability to save money


Saving Money
68%
Not Saving
32%

Almost 68% of surveyed individuals in Panama said that they can save some money at the end of each month while 32% reported that they have to utilize their whole income to survive.


A single person savings to income ratio in Panama

Savings-to-Income Ratio

The savings-to-income ratio is measured as the percentage of income that people save over a specific period and it is simply calculated by dividing the saved money by total income and then multiplying the result by 100. (Savings / Income) x 100.


How much money do individuals manage to add to their savings?

The amount of money that people can afford to save depends hugely on their income. It is better to focus on the percentage when trying to understand saving patterns.

Saving to Income Ratio

12% 20% of income 31%
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM

Average Monthly Saved Amount

58 PAB
$58
520 PAB
$520
3,500 PAB
$3,500
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM

Savings to income distribution levels for individuals

Saving To Income Ratio% Individuals
0% - 10%32%
10% - 20%25%
20% - 30%16%
30% - 40%13%
40% - 50%10%
> 50%4%

Interpretation and Analysis

Individuals that are able to save money can put anywhere from 12% to 31% of their monthly income to their savings, with 20% being the average for most individuals. The average monthly amount of money that individuals can put aside is 520 PAB with 58 PAB and 3,500 PAB being the minimum and maximum respectively.

Reasons that make it difficult for individuals to save money in Panama

Saving Challenges in Panama

Reasons that make it difficult for individuals to save money

We wanted to understand what is stopping people from maximizing their savings in Panama. Listed below are the answers given by the survey participants.


Reason% People
Low Income6%
High Expenses9%
Debt and Loans16%
Lack of Budgeting Skills11%
Impulsive Spending10%
Financial Emergencies6%
Living the moment6%
Will do it later18%
Inflation11%
Social Pressure3%
Market Instability3%

Around 6% of the individuals said that their salary is too low to accommodate a portion for savings while 9% said that the high cost of living leaves little room for savings. 16% of the residents said that they are burdened with debt and find it challenging to save money. 11% reported that they just don't have the knowledge or discipline to create and stick to a budget, leading to overspending and an inability to save. 10% of individuals blamed impulsive spending as the reason for saving inability. Around 6% said that unexpected expenses like medical bills or car repairs are derailing their savings goals. 6% bluntly said that they don't see the purpose of it and prefer to live each day to the fullest. 18% reported that they understand the value of saving but are putting off saving for the future, thinking they have plenty of time to start later. 11% blamed inflation, saying that every time they save some money they end up using it immediately. A surprising 3% said that social pressure and keeping up with peers or social expectations makes them overspend. Lastly, 3% blamed market instability and price fluctuations.

Where do individuals choose to put their savings in Panama

Typical saving choices for individuals in Panama

Where do people choose to put their savings?


Saving Type% People
Emergency Funds11%
Gold11%
Savings Accounts17%
Retirement Accounts11%
Cash Savings18%
Real Estate10%
Investment6%
Stocks5%
Bonds6%
Mutual Funds3%
Certificates of Deposit3%
A typical and healthy budgeting structure. The 50-30-20 rule

A typical and healthy budgeting structure

The 50/30/20 rule

Spending among different people can vary significantly based on factors such as their income, lifestyle, location, and personal preferences. A commonly used guideline for budgeting is the 50/30/20 rule, which suggests allocating your income into three main categories in the following percentages.

  • 50% for needs and financial obligations

    This category includes essential expenses like housing, utilities, groceries, transportation, and healthcare.

  • 30% for wants and discretionary spending

    This category covers discretionary spending on non-essential items, such as dining out, entertainment, travel, and other lifestyle choices.

  • 20% for savings and emergency fund

    This is the percentage that must be allocated to savings, emergency funds, and retirement accounts.

About financial planning, money management, and household budgeting

The 50/30/20 rule is used as a general guideline but may not be the best choice for all people. There are in fact many budgeting plans out there like the 70/20/10 and the 60/20/20 rules, all claiming to be the best. More important than all of this is to establish financial discipline by creating a budget tailored to your specific financial goals and situation. It is very important that your financial outflow be less than your income to maintain a healthy cash flow.

Income and cost of living compatibility. Is it affordable or economical for individuals to live in Panama

Affordable living in Panama

Income and cost of living compatibility

We asked individuals one simple question and recorded their answers.

Is it affordable or economical to live in Panama?


Yes
67%
No
33%

Around 67% of surveyed individuals think that living in Panama is affordable with proper budgeting while 33% reported that it is just too expensive and not affordable even with frugality and thriftness.

How easily is cost-cutting for individuals. Are there plenty of low-cost options in Panama

Low-cost alternatives in Panama

People are always looking for ways to cut down expenses and reduce expenditures. The hallmark of any affordable place is the availability of discount stores, bargain deals, smart or secondhand shopping, refurbished items, and couponing. We asked individuals how easily cost-cutting is and the answers were distributed as follows:

Plenty of low-cost options57%

Few low-cost options43%


Based on the survey, 57% of the individuals living in Panama have no problem finding low-cost alternatives to support a frugal lifestyle while 43% think that thriftness is difficult due to scarcity in discount markets and secondhand outlets.

Emergency Funds For Individuals

An emergency fund is a financial safety net comprised of easily accessible savings set aside to cover unexpected expenses or financial emergencies, typically amounting to three to six months' worth of living expenses. We asked individuals of Panama whether they have an emergency fund and the answers were as follows.

Yes63%

No37%


Based on the survey, 37% of the individuals living in Panama said that they don't have an emergency fund while 63% said that they do.

Financial literacy and difficulty in budgeting and financial planning for individuals in Panama

Financial Literacy in Panama

Financial literacy is the knowledge of concepts and principles related to personal finance that allow individuals to make informed decisions regarding their money such as budgeting, saving, investing, borrowing, managing debt, financial risk management, and planning.

Financial Leteracy62%


We asked individuals in Panama whether they acquired any adequate personal financial training in their lives. Approximately 38% of the people who participated in the survey said that they are not well informed about the topics of budgeting, saving, etc., and just manage things based on their own experience, while 62% said that they know about the general principles of personal finance from sources other than their own experience.


Difficulty in Budgeting and Financial Planning

We wanted to understand whether single people of Panama have problems or difficulties in managing their expenditures and savings so we asked people one simple question: do you struggle with your personal finances? 41% of the participants reported that they indeed struggle in creating budgets and in organizing their finances while 59% said that they have everything under control.

Struggles with finance41%

Easily manages finances59%

Financial goals and targets of single people living in Panama

Financial goals of individuals in Panama

In an attempt to understand the economic situation in Panama, we asked participants about their financial targets. By knowing what the population in general is trying to achieve, we can shed light on the economic outlook, cost of living, and quality of life in general.


Financial Goal% People
Emergency Fund7%
Debt Reduction36%
Retirement Savings8%
Education Funding8%
Homeownership17%
Investing8%
Travel or Lifestyle9%
Healthcare Expenses11%
Financial Independence7%

Around 7% of individuals said that their main goal is to establish an emergency fund to cover unexpected expenses while 36% said their number one priority is to pay off high-interest debt or loans and improve credit. 8% of surveyed people confirmed that saving for retirement to ensure a comfortable lifestyle in the final years is their main target. Around 8% reported that their priority is saving for the tuition fees and education costs of their children while 17% choose to buy a home or pay off existing mortgage before other things. 8% of the population would like to build wealth through investments such as stocks, bonds, mutual funds, or real estate. For 9% of people, saving for vacations or upgrading their lifestyle is the number one concern. Approximately 11% of the residents said that saving for healthcare expenses including insurance premiums is their main goal.

Chart showing the percentage of individuals who are in debt in Panama

Debt, loans, and mortgages in Panama


Percentage of individuals who are in debt


In Debt
32%
Debt Free
68%

According to the survey, 32% of the individuals in Panama have some kind of debt, loan, mortgage, or credit card payments while 68% reported that they don't have financial obligations to banks.


Chart showing debt-to-income ratio in Panama

Debt-to-income ratio in Panama

Debt to income ratio

30%

21% to 39%

( monthly debt payment / monthly income ) x 100

Interpretation

The debt-to-income ratio measures the percentage of income being paid as debt settlement across the population. It is calculated by dividing the monthly debt settlement payment of an individual by their monthly income. Based on collected data, approximately 30% of a single person's monthly income in Panama goes to debt settlement.


Debt levels

Monthly debt settlement payment as percentage of monthly income

Debt-to-income ratio% People
> 60%3%
50% - 60%14%
40% - 50%12%
30% - 40%14%
20% - 30%13%
10% - 20%16%
0% - 10%27%

According to our data, 3% of the debtors in Panama pay 60%+ of their income as debt settlement while 14% of the people pay 50% to 60% of their income for the same, which is quite an alarming financial situation for those individuals. 12% of people in debt dedicate 40% to 50% of their income to loan and mortgage payments while 14% dedicated 30% to 40% of income for same. Things are looking brighter for 13% of individuals as they only pay 20% to 30% of their income for loan and credit card repayment.


Distribution by type of debt in Panama

Debt% People
Real Estate Mortgage11%
Auto Loan20%
Student Loan3%
Credit Card27%
Personal Loan39%

11% of debtors in Panama confirm that real estate mortgages constitutes the main part of their outstanding debt while 27% say that credit card payments are the reason they are in debt. Auto loans were the main type of debt for 20% of people and personal loans rose at 39%. Lastly, student loans are the main source of debt for 3% of debtors in Panama.


About credit score and debt management

Managing debt is a critical aspect of maintaining a favorable credit score. Debt reduction is the first thing you should do improve your financial situation. Getting rid of debt takes precedence over saving money because of interest rates.

Good debt vs. Bad debt

Not all debt is bad. Good debt typically refers to borrowing money for investments that can increase in value or generate income over time like purchasing a home or acquiring student loans. On the other hand, bad debt involves borrowing for things that fail to generate lasting value like high-interest credit card debt used for non-essential expenses like luxury items or vacations.


Loan Affordability Index in Panama

Besides measuring the loan-to-income ratio, we asked individuals of Panama how many times in a year they defaulted or were unable to pay their due credit card or loan payments on time. Understanding how often people default on their due payments is one of the indicators of the cost of living and economic situation.

Frequency and percentage of people who failed to pay their monthly credit card or loan payments on time last year.

Frequency% People
Never53%
Once a year23%
Twice a year12%
Three times a year8%
Four times a year4%
Housing and accommodation affordability, property price to income ratio, rent to income ratio, and housing affordability index chart in Panama

Housing costs, accommodation, and housing affordability in Panama

Rental costs and house/apartment prices can vary drastically between different areas and locations.


Rent Cost in Panama

Monthly Rent Prices

Studio apartment monthly rent cost

180 PAB 270 PAB 710 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$180 $270 $710

1-bedroom apartment monthly rent cost

270 PAB 430 PAB 1,100 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$270 $430 $1,100

2-bedroom apartment monthly rent cost

350 PAB 530 PAB 1,400 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$350 $530 $1,400

3-bedroom apartment monthly rent cost

430 PAB 710 PAB 1,900 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$430 $710 $1,900

Furnished apartment monthly rent cost

850 PAB 2,100 PAB 4,300 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$850 $2,100 $4,300

Townhouse monthly rent cost

710 PAB 1,100 PAB 3,000 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$710 $1,100 $3,000

House monthly rent cost

850 PAB 2,100 PAB 4,300 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$850 $2,100 $4,300

Villa monthly rent cost

1,100 PAB 2,700 PAB 4,300 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$1,100 $2,700 $4,300

The monthly rental cost of a studio apartment in Panama ranges between 180 PAB and 710 PAB, meanwhile the cost of monthly rental of a one-bedroom apartment can be anywhere from 270 PAB to 1,100 PAB. Two-bedroom rentals rate ranges between 350 PAB and 1,400 PAB per month. The monthly rental for a three-bedroom apartment ranges from 430 PAB to 1,900 PAB. The average rent of a townhouse in Panama is around 1,100 PAB while house rental costs can be as high as 2,100 PAB per month. Finally, if you want to rent a villa, expect to pay anywhere from 1,100 PAB to 4,300 PAB per month.



Apartment and house prices in Panama

Cost of buying a property

Studio apartment price

35,000 PAB 53,000 PAB 110,000 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$35,000 $53,000 $110,000

1-bedroom apartment price

43,000 PAB 71,000 PAB 270,000 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$43,000 $71,000 $270,000

2-bedroom apartment price

71,000 PAB 210,000 PAB 430,000 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$71,000 $210,000 $430,000

3-bedroom apartment price

240,000 PAB 350,000 PAB 1.1M PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$240,000 $350,000 $1.1M

Townhouse price

300,000 PAB 710,000 PAB 2.7M PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$300,000 $710,000 $2.7M

House price

350,000 PAB 2.1M PAB 3M PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$350,000 $2.1M $3M

Villa price

430,000 PAB 2.4M PAB 3.5M PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$430,000 $2.4M $3.5M

The average price of a studio apartment in Panama can range from 35,000 PAB to 110,000 PAB depending on location. One bedroom cost can be anywhere from 43,000 PAB to 270,000 PAB. A villa can cost you 2.4M PAB on average with prices ranging from 430,000 PAB to 3.5M PAB.


If you're leasing or purchasing, housing costs in Panama will probably constitute your biggest expenditure, yet it's an area where you wield considerable influence. This is due to the substantial variance in housing prices across communities. Keep in mind the location of your workplace and the accessibility of essential amenities to prevent negating the savings from lower rental rates with increased transportation expenses.

House / apartment prices to income ratio


Property price to income ratio

( average property price / average monthly income ) x 100


37 x107 monthly income 204
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM

Property prices in Panama can be x107 to x204 multiples of the monthly income depending on the property and the income of the person. On average, property prices are approximately x107 multiples of the average monthly salary in Panama.



Rent to income ratio


Rent to income ratio

( monthly rental / monthly income ) x 100


21% 31% of income 41%
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM

The average rent-to-income ratio in Panama is around 31%. This means that people pay 31% of their income for rent. Those figures can range from 21% to 41% depending on the salary, location, and type of property.


The housing-to-income ratio is a very important metric to evaluate and measure how affordable living is in a particular area, city, or country since housing comprises the biggest chunk of expenditure. A higher housing to income ratio means that the place is relatively expensive. The figure by itself does tell much. It only starts to make sense when comparing the housing to income ratio across different locations.

Housing affordability index

The housing affordability index measures how affordable accommodation is in a particular place. This can measured in multiple ways, the most common being housing expenditure to total expenditure ratio and the rent to income ratio. The housing expenditure ratio is a figure reported by individuals on the percentage they allocate for housing. Rent to income ratio is calculated by dividing the average monthly rent by the average income. Because these values are both percentages, we can find their average and get the best of the two worlds.

Housing Affordability Index
29%

Property Taxes

Real estate owners pay property taxes to local tax authorities, which are determined by the assessed value of their property. Typically, these taxes are paid once a year. Property tax funds contribute to community development, financing infrastructure improvements, public services, and local education initiatives.


FROM
2.1%
AVERAGE
3.1%
TO
4.1%

Home Maintenance Costs

Home maintenance costs encompass various expenses associated with the upkeep and repair of a residence. These expenditures include regular tasks such as lawn care, pest control, and HVAC system servicing, as well as occasional repairs and renovations like fixing leaks, painting, or replacing appliances.


3.1 PAB 40 PAB 400 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM

Urban vs. rural living costs

Urban living typically entails higher housing and transportation costs due to demand and limited space, while rural areas generally offer lower housing expenses but may have higher prices for goods and services. The differnce in rental rates between urban areas and rural areas can be as high as 300% in some cases.

Monthly costs and expenses of energy and basic utilities in Panama

Utilities expenditure can vary slightly between different areas and locations.


Energy, electricity, water, gas, internet, and mobile cost in Panama

Utility Bill Cost / Electricity + Water + Gas / A single person

12 PAB 84 PAB 560 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$12 $84 $560

Internet and cable cost

11 PAB 21 PAB 28 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$11 $21 $28

Mobile phone bill and charges

8.5 PAB 14 PAB 43 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$8.5 $14 $43

Because most utility bills club electricity, water, and gas costs in one bill, we can't provide a breakup for each type of utility and will display electricity, gas, and water as single cost.


The average monthly energy and water consumption of individuals is around 84 PAB. The cost of internet and WiFi ranges from 11 PAB to 28 PAB with 21 PAB being the average internet bill. Finally, the average monthly mobile charges is around 14 PAB but can range between 8.5 PAB and 43 PAB depending on consumption. Mobile charges include both calling minutes as well as data packages.


Energy / Utility expense to income ratio


( monthly utility expenses / monthly income ) x 100


3% 6% of income 10%
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM

The average utility-to-income ratio in Panama is around 6%. This means that people pay 6% of their income for energy, water, internet, and mobile charges. Those figures can range from 3% to 10% depending on salary and location.

Food Prices, Dining Expenses, and Grocery Costs in Panama

Grocery / Food expenditure and prices can vary drastically between different areas and locations.


Prices and cost of goods and services in Panama

Dining out, food, and beverages costs. Price variations for common food items.

Fast food combo meal price

2.1 PAB 4.3 PAB 7.1 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$2.1 $4.3 $7.1

The average price of a regular combo meal at a fast food outlet or chain like McDonald's, Pizzahut, or KFC in Panama is approximatly 4.3 PAB with meal cost ranging from 2.1 PAB to 7.1 PAB. The typical combo meal consists of a burger, french fries, and a drink.

Restaurant meal for one price

7.1 PAB 11 PAB 21 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$7.1 $11 $21

If you are planning to have a nice meal at a mid-range restaurant, expect to pay anywhere between 7.1 PAB and 21 PAB with 11 PAB being the average price of a plate for one person at a regular restaurant in Panama.

Fine dining meal for one price

14 PAB 21 PAB 85 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$14 $21 $85

The price range of a meal at fine-dining restaurant is 14 PAB to 85 PAB with the average cost being 21 PAB for one person. This is what you would expect to pay a top-tier diner in Panama.

Beverage prices, cappuccino, latte etc..

1.8 PAB 2.8 PAB 4.3 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$1.8 $2.8 $4.3

The average price of a regular beverage like cappuccino or latte at Starbucks, Costa, or similar coffee shops and cafes in Panama is around 2.8 PAB. Price ranges between 1.8 PAB and 4.3 PAB depending on the type of beverage, the size, and optional add-ons.



Grocery and market costs

Large bottle of milk price

1.4 PAB 1.7 PAB 2.1 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$1.4 $1.7 $2.1

The average price of a large bottle of milk in Panama is 1.7 PAB. The maximum what you would pay for milk is 2.1 PAB and the minimum being 1.4 PAB depending on the brand of milk and other properties.

12 eggs price

1.1 PAB 1.4 PAB 2.1 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$1.1 $1.4 $2.1

A dozen eggs costs around 1.4 PAB on average with 1.1 PAB and 2.1 PAB being the lower and upper limits respectively.

Fresh whole chicken price

2.4 PAB 3.1 PAB 4.4 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$2.4 $3.1 $4.4

The price range of a fresh whole chicken in Panama is between 2.4 PAB and 4.4 PAB depending on the size of the chicken and whether it is oraganic or not. The average price is approximatly 3.1 PAB.

Pack of beef price

2.8 PAB 4.3 PAB 8.5 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$2.8 $4.3 $8.5

The price of a regular pack of beef or meat is around 4.3 PAB. A pack of beef contains around 1Kg or 1lb depending on packing.

Medium bag of rice price

1.1 PAB 1.6 PAB 2.2 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$1.1 $1.6 $2.2

A bag of rice in Panama costs around 1.6 PAB on average with prices rangeing between 1.1 PAB and 2.2 PAB depending on the brand and quality.

Bag of tomatos price

0.43 PAB 0.57 PAB 1.1 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$0.43 $0.57 $1.1

A bag of tomatoes costs anywhere from 0.43 PAB to 1.1 PAB. A bag of tomatoes denotes 1Kg or 1lb depending on location.

Bag of apples price

0.76 PAB 0.99 PAB 1.6 PAB
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM
$0.76 $0.99 $1.6

A bag of apples costs 0.99 PAB on average. A bag of apples denotes 1Kg or 1lb depending on location.


Grocery and food expenditure to income ratio


( monthly grocery expenses / monthly income ) x 100


18% 26% of income 32%
MINIMUM AVERAGE MAXIMUM

The average grocery-to-income ratio in Panama is around 26%. This means that individuals spend 26% of their income on grocery and basic household items. The expenditure can range from 18% to 32% depending on salary and location.


Expenditure on food and grocery for individuals

Individuals' spending on grocery ranges from 32 PAB to 1,500 PAB with the location, income being the most determinite factors.

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