Finding housing in your native country can be challenging, let alone finding housing in a whole other country. However, here is your ultimate guide to discovering the best central neighborhoods to live in Panama City. As well as things to be aware of when looking for in your new home in Panama City, Panama.
Disclaimer: I won’t include information about good schools because I don’t know much about schooling in Panama. While I did work at a private religious school in Panama, I heard that many people like the schools in Panama, and their children have adjusted and enjoyed their school experience.
It’s worth noting that all the neighborhoods listed are considered safe, so safety shouldn’t be a concern when considering this list. Additionally, the central part of Panama City is very walkable, though it’s worth noting to be cautious of cracks and dips in the sidewalks. You can even walk from one side of Panama City to the other if you choose!
However, one area Panama City can improve is investing in bike lanes and becoming a more bike-friendly city.
Things to ask when looking for apartments
- What is included in the rent (Gas, Water, Electric and Internet)?
- Is this a furnished, unfurnished, or linea blanca?
- Linea Blanca means only comes with appliances such as A/C, fridge, and maybe a washer and dryer.
- How will the communication of these bills be received?
- Have you paid the last month’s bill to a zero balance?
- When was the last gas inspection?
- This is important because you can be without gas (heat) for 30+ days, which isn’t fun.
- Is there a backup generator? I was lucky and my building had one so I never had a problem.
- How often does pest control come?
- Well, you know, roaches! Ugh!
- Is there any social area and what is the maintenance upkeep on the social area?
Things you will need to have to rent an apartment or house
- A reference. If you have rented an Airbnb, ask your host if they are willing to write one for you.
- A letter from your bank stating that you have sufficient funds in your account. They don’t need to know the exact amount, just that you have enough funds.
- An income reference from your job stating that you are making a certain amount per month to pay for your rent.
- Deposit money and 1st month’s rent
Bam! You now have access to apartments in Panama.
Challenges and suggestions for paying your rent
Paying your rent as a foreigner without a Panama bank account can be a challenge.
Suggestions
- Write a check to your landlord, but this check needs to be submitted to them 15 days before your rent is due
- Have a friend or family member Western Union money to you, so you can deposit the cash into your landlord’s bank account
- Take out large amounts of cash over several days. However, the cash withdrawal fee will start to add up at $5.25 per withdrawal
El Cangrejo
Let’s start with the neighborhood I lived in, El Cangrejo, or The Crab in English. El Cangrejo is a great neighborhood for any newbie to Panama. This neighborhood is conveniently located near one of the major streets via Espana and via Argentina.
Here are the things you will find in this beautiful neighborhood:
Pros
- Grocery stores El Rey and Casa del Carne
- Mailbox, etc.
- Restaurants (Favorites Siete Granos & Bar and The Raj)
- Vegan options: Rock and Roll Sushi and Vegano o NO
- Beautiful view of the city
- Easy train and bus accessibility
- Hotels (Favorite Torre del Alba)
Cons
- Traffic during rush hour times
- Power outages
Cost and Housing Style
- Mostly apartments
- The average apartment cost is between $900-$1,500
Obarrio
Across from El Cangrejo is Obarrio, where many businesses and banks are located.
Here are the things you will find in this beautiful neighborhood:
Pros
- Grocery stores El Rey and other small corner stores
- Mailbox, etc.
- Restaurants (Favorites Luna Rooftop & Bar and Michael’s)
- Beautiful view of the city
- Easy train and bus accessibility
- Many hotels (favorites Sortis and the W)
- Mall and movie theater
Cons
- Heavy traffic
- Noise from cars on the road (depending on floor and windows)
Cost and Housing Style
- Mostly apartments
- The average apartment cost is between $1,000-$1,800
Bella Vista and Marbella
Bella Vista and Marbella span the inner area off of Avenida Balboa. This area is pretty touristy; however, it is still a great place to live.
Here are the things you will find in these beautiful neighborhoods:
- A park called Bella Vista Park
- 2 grocery stores, El Rey and Riba Smith
- Mailbox, etc.
- Restaurants (Vegan Natural Spice)
- Very close to Cinta Costera
- Beautiful view of the city or the ocean
- Easy train and bus accessibility
- Many hotels
- Very close to a hospital
Cons
- Many tourists
- Higher housing cost
- Noise from cars on the road (depending on floor and windows)
Cost and Housing Style
- Mostly apartments
- The average apartment cost is between $1,000-$2,000
Punta Paitilla and Punta Pacifica
These neighborhoods are known for their high population of Jewish residents. As a result, there are many stores that are Kosher-friendly and have a strong Jewish community presence. Due to the affluent nature of the Jewish population, prices at restaurants and other establishments in the area can be a bit higher.
Things in these beautiful neighborhoods are the following:
Pros
- Grocery stores: Super Kosher, Super99, and Foodie
- Mailboxes, etc.
- Restaurants
- Close proximity to Cinta Costera
- Beautiful views of the city and ocean
- Many hotels, such as the JW Marriott
- Pacific Center and movie theater
- Very close to a hospital
Cons
- Heavy tourist traffic
- Higher housing costs
- No easy access to trains and buses
- Noise from traffic can be an issue depending on the location of the apartment and the quality of its windows.
Cost and Housing Style
- Mostly apartments
- The average apartment cost ranges between 1200-2000.
San Francisco
I personally enjoy the San Francisco area. One of the biggest parks in Panama, Parque Omar, is located here. Additionally, there are many great restaurants, shopping options, and fitness centers in the area.
Things in this beautiful neighborhood are the following:
Pros
- Grocery stores: Super99, Super Xtra, and farmers market
- Mailboxes, etc.
- Restaurants, including my personal favorites Terrat Rooftop and Central Taproom
- Beautiful view of the city
- Multiplaza mall
- Dog-friendly community
- Small boutiques
Cons
- No easy access to trains and buses
Cost and Housing Style
- Mostly apartments
- The average apartment cost ranges between 1000-1800.
Casco Viejo and Amador
Casco Viejo and Amador are two popular tourist areas in Panama that can also be great places to live.
Things in these beautiful neighborhoods are the following:
Pros
- Small grocery stores like El Rey and El Machetazo (in Casco Viejo)
- Restaurants such as Tanatalo and Selina
- Beautiful ocean views and natural surroundings
- Clubs
- Amador has Praia and Plaza Causeway for entertainment options
Cons
- No easy access to trains and buses
- Difficulty in getting Uber, taxis, and other ride-sharing services in the Amador area
- Noisy clubs and parties in Casco Viejo
- Higher cost of living
- No nearby grocery stores in Amador
Cost and Housing Style:
- Limited apartments and houses in Amador
- Mostly apartments in the Casco Viejo area
- The average cost is between $1500-2500.
Conclusion
In conclusion, finding the right neighborhood for you and your family can take time and effort. Everyone has different incomes and lifestyles that are important to consider. This list is just a starting point to help you navigate the different neighborhoods in Panama.
In my upcoming blogs, I’ll cover more about housing and neighborhoods that many expats live in, as well as websites to search for short-term rentals. Feel free to like and comment below on the neighborhoods you have enjoyed living in or the ones you didn’t.
As Always Thank You for Reading My World, My Vision, My Adventure!
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AllThingsBiola 