Panama offers a slightly lower cost of living than Costa Rica, especially outside of Panama City. The country also offers a unique program, the pensioner visa, which offers retirees substantial discounts on several services, further reducing living costs. In addition, Costa Rica has a large number of private healthcare providers, allowing retirees to choose from a variety of options. It's important to consider your preferred weather conditions when deciding between Panama and Costa Rica.
We calculated the prices of Costa Rica and Panama as a weighted average per population of 9 and 10 cities, respectively. However, if you're attracted to a more nature-centered lifestyle and vibrant biodiversity, Costa Rica is sure to captivate you. Costa Rica has a variety of microclimates due to its diverse geography, including coastal plains, mountain ranges and valleys. The average salary after taxes is enough to cover living expenses for 0.8 months in Costa Rica, compared to 0.7 months in Panama.
Ultimately, the choice between Panama and Costa Rica for retirement depends on individual preferences. When considering moving abroad, Central America has become a favorite destination for expatriates, with Costa Rica and Panama topping the list. When considering retiring in Panama or Costa Rica, an important factor to consider is the cost of living. Whether you choose Panama or Costa Rica, both countries offer accessible and affordable health care options for retirees.
Costa Rica has a sunny, spring-like climate all year round, while Panama can be hot and humid, especially during the rainy season. Costa Rica's year-round sunny climate provides the perfect backdrop for exploring its national parks and water sports. When considering retirement in Panama or Costa Rica, two important factors to consider are security and climate. Panama has a more developed infrastructure compared to Costa Rica, with better road networks and Internet connectivity. Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama, and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic.
The country's public health system, known as the Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS), offers quality health care at a fraction of the cost compared to countries such as the U.S. UU.
