Panama
Cost of Living in Pedasí
The major trade-offs for low costs: 5-hour drive from Panama City, weekly shopping trips to Chitré required, very basic medical facilities, and Spanish essential for daily life. No Uber service—car ownership necessary. Internet improving but not reliable for heavy remote work. The slower pace and authentic small-town atmosphere appeal to those seeking simplicity over convenience.
Monthly Total
$1,271
$22,243
Housing (1BR Mid-range)
$575
Daily Spend (ex. rent)
$23
Based on a typical expat lifestyle: 1BR furnished apartment, mix of cooking/eating out, rideshare transportation, moderate entertainment. Last updated: 1/14/2026.
Monthly Cost Breakdown
Housing (Rent)
1BR furnished apartment in mid-range neighborhood
$575
$10,063
Utilities
Electric, water, gas, and internet
$157
$2,748
Groceries
Groceries from supermarkets
$175
$3,063
Dining Out
Mix of casual restaurants, ~12 meals/month
$60
$1,050
Transportation
Rideshare (Uber/Didi), ~30 rides/month
$0
$0
Lifestyle & Entertainment
Entertainment, occasional cleaning service
$172
$3,010
Healthcare
Basic private health insurance
$95
$1,663
Phone & Subscriptions
Phone plan and streaming subscriptions
$37
$648
Monthly Total
$1,271
$22,243
Don't skip health insurance
Cost estimates are great for budgeting, but real coverage protects you when something goes wrong.
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Living in Pedasí
Pedasí offers Panama's absolute lowest cost of living. Budget-conscious retirees report comfortable living at $900-1,600/month. The dry, breezy Azuero Peninsula climate requires less AC than other coastal areas. Unspoiled Pacific beaches are 5 minutes from the town square. The tight-knit expat community integrates well with friendly locals.
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