New member introduction

Hello ,

I have lived in Panama since 2001.  As you likely know "costs of living" are highly variable based on how each of us define comfortable.   What I have found living here is that costs of many "things" are not that different from what you would pay in many areas of the US.  There is a 7% sales tax on everything except food.  (10% sin tax on alcohol. )  What is lower priced is typically labor and property taxes.   The biggie as with anywhere is where and what you want to live in.

Hi Dennis,

Thanks for the info. Yeah, I remember from my visit to Nicaragua that some things were actually more expensive there than here (i.e. electronics). So, I don't expect everything to be "bargain-basement" prices. I suppose if that is what I was looking for I would look elsewhere. But I live rather simply and am as much interested in enjoying the lifestyle as I am looking for a low cost-of-living. Quality of life v. quantity of possessions in other words. I look forward to chatting with more of you and learning as much as possible before I go so that I am as prepared as I can be. Cheers!

Rich

Well, now you can check out some prices online by Google.

Grocery Stores
Super99 Panama or Riba-Smith Panama

Electronics
Panafoto

and Central Americas' Costco

PriceSmart

great info. thanks, again!

Please keep updates on your new adventure

Will do.

Hello, my name is INDY and I was stationed at Howard AFB and Albrook from 1988 to 1994. next year I plan on moving to Panama in a  semi-retirement way. But as they always say; location, location.  location is everything, explore the country and find what fits you. determine why you want to make Panama your home. is it for weather, money, lifestyle, a wife, climate, culture, or escape.  it may be a combination of all the above. but answering these questions will help you find a place that suits you..

Good advice, thanks. Yeah, I was at Howard TDY in 1986. Had a ball!