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Renting in Panama City
The rental market in Panama City is well-developed with English-speaking real estate agents familiar with expat needs. Most leases are 1-year minimum; furnished apartments are widely available in expat neighborhoods.
- Furnished 1-BR in expat neighborhoods (San Francisco, Costa del Este): $900–$1,500/month
- Luxury towers (Punta Pacifica, Marbella): $1,500–$3,000+ for ocean-view apartments
- Budget options in El Cangrejo: $600–$900 for a basic 1-BR, less serviced
- Most landlords prefer 12-month leases; some accept 3- or 6-month for a premium
- Furnished vs. unfurnished: furnished commands 20–40% premium but saves setup costs
- Utilities (AC-heavy electricity) are typically NOT included in rent — factor $120–$200/month
- AirBnB and Facebook groups ('Panama City Expat Housing') are common search methods
- Real estate agents: Re/Max Panama, Century 21 Panama, Morgan & Morgan Real Estate — all English-speaking