Boquete vs Atenas
Cost of living comparison for expats considering Boquete or Atenas, Mexico.
Based on a typical expat lifestyle
Atenas is 9% cheaper than Boquete
Monthly savings
$149
Panama
Boquete
$1,702
$29,785
Costa Rica
Atenas
$1,553
$27,178
Cheaper option
Category Breakdown
Housing (Rent)
Utilities
Groceries
Dining Out
Transportation
Lifestyle & Entertainment
Healthcare
Phone & Subscriptions
Based on a typical expat lifestyle: 1BR furnished apartment in mid-range neighborhood, mix of cooking/eating out, rideshare transportation, moderate entertainment, basic health insurance.
City Insights
Boquete
The major cost advantage is no AC. Electricity runs $30-80/month versus $150-300 in Panama City. Trade-off is the 40-minute drive to David for serious medical care or major shopping. Weekly power outages are common but brief. The 8-month rainy season brings heavy precipitation but predictable patterns. Car ownership helpful but not essential for town living.
Atenas
Small-town living with easy access to San José for shopping and healthcare. Farmers markets offer excellent local produce prices. Limited dining options but lower cost of living overall.
Customize This Comparison
These estimates use a typical expat profile. Adjust housing, dining, and lifestyle preferences to match your actual situation.
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