Fed Up with U.S. Politics? Panama Ranks #1 in the World to Escape — And THE Best Place to Retire in 2025
Feeling disillusioned with the political climate in the United States? You’re not alone. More and more Americans are seeking peace of mind, financial freedom, and a better quality of life beyond their borders. And according to International Living’s Global Retirement Index, Panama is the number one destination in the world to retire in 2025.
What Is the Global Retirement Index?
The Global Retirement Index is the most comprehensive and practical guide of its kind. Based on the firsthand experience of long-term expats, it goes far beyond cold data or tourist snapshots. Its contributors live in the places they describe, offering real, reliable insight that you won’t find in generic internet lists.
So, what makes Panama so special?
Jess Ramesch writes in the International Living article:
“Surprise!”
That’s what I tell my friends when they visit me. As we drive out of the airport and the skyline of Panama City shimmers in the distance, I see it on their faces—they expected a sleepy Central American capital… and landed somewhere that looks like Manhattan on the Pacific.Panama defies expectations—and that’s exactly why more and more people are starting a new life here.
Political Stability, Low Cost of Living, and High Quality of Life
Located in the same hemisphere as the U.S. and Canada, outside the hurricane belt, and with strong environmental protections, Panama is safe, modern, and welcoming.
You can live comfortably here on $2,400 a month—and luxuriously on $2,900 (in Panama City! If you choose provinces like Chiriquí, you can live comfortably even on $1,000 to $1,500). That includes high-speed internet, potable water (available throughout the country), excellent roads, and world-class, affordable healthcare.
A real-life example: Jess Ramesch shares that he recently had a dental crown replaced for $580—a fraction of the $1,000–$3,500 price in the U.S. His dentist speaks English, takes his time, and only recommends necessary treatment.
Major Financial Benefits
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No tax on foreign-earned income
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Low property taxes (starting at 0.5%)
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Car insurance for around $57/month
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Affordable repairs and maintenance
Plus, Panama makes it easy to gain legal residency:
Pensionado Visa: Qualify with just $1,000/month in retirement income. Processing can take as little as six months and includes discounts on electricity, restaurants, movies, transportation, healthcare, and more.
Friendly Nations Visa: Qualify with a $200,000 real estate investment or a fixed-term deposit.
Telework Visa: Work remotely from Panama for up to 18 months with just proof of foreign income and medical insurance.
Comfort, Convenience, and Community
Panama uses the U.S. dollar, has an efficient metro system, affordable Ubers, and Tocumen International Airport—known as the “Hub of the Americas”—with direct flights across the continent and even to Europe.
You can rent a furnished apartment in Panama City for just over $1,000 a month, or for this price you can find beautiful homes with spacious gardens and terraces overlooking the Barú Volcano in the Chiriquí Highlands. In Panama, you can enjoy world-class cuisine, nightlife, and ocean views—or move to one of the country’s many beach or mountain towns.
For example, I live in Coronado, a beachfront community where I bought a 1,130 sq ft apartment in 2022 for $155,000. I pay just $262/month in HOA fees and enjoy access to a pool, gym, sauna, rooftop terraces, and more. My lifestyle? Like California with beach breeze—without hurricanes, and without the price tag.
Panama Is for Everyone
Whether you’re:
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A retiree looking for financial peace of mind
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A digital nomad working remotely
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A family seeking better schools and healthcare
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Or simply someone ready for a change…
Panama offers modern infrastructure, bilingual schools with dual certification (U.S./U.K. + Panamanian), and hospitals that accept Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, Blue Cross Blue Shield—even veteran coverage.
Prefer the mountains? Visit Boquete.
Beach life? Check out La Barqueta, Las Lajas, Boca Chica, Coronado, or Pedasí.
Urban vibe? Panama City will surprise you.
Ready to Discover Your New Life?
With over 18 years of experience, I can help you find your dream property anywhere in Panama—whether that’s a mountain-view villa, a modern condo in the city, or a beachfront retreat.
Let’s turn your Plan B into the best Plan A. Message me today and let’s find your perfect escape.
Text me on WhatsApp +507 6981-5000
