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David, Panama
Capital City

Follows Panama Residency Rules. Check Digital Nomad & Retiree Pathways →
Est. Monthly Cost (1 Person)
$1,200
Retiree Score
75.0
Safety Index
64.2
Healthcare
10 facilities

It's a relatively affluent city with a firmly established middle class, but the hot and oppressive climate is a persistent headache. With a population of 82,907 as of 2013, David is the third-largest city in Panama and a regional economic powerhouse, producing over half the GDP of the Chiriqui province. The city has seen rapid development in recent years, with a booming banking sector and major public works projects. However, the grid-like layout and low building heights give it a sleepy, small-town feel. David is best suited for middle-class Panamanians and expatriates looking for a slower pace of life outside the Panama City metro area.

Can I afford David?

$

David

You could save

1,800/mo

Savings Rate60%

Monthly Costs

Rent $550
Living (Country Average Adjusted)$650

Attractiveness Scores

FIRE Score
(i)
60/100
Retiree Score
(i)
75/100
Lifestyle Score
(i)
50/100
💻Nomad Score
(i)
50/100
Meets Panama Digital Nomad Visa Income Rule.
64
Safety
10
Healthcare
100
Walkability
20
Nomad

Grocery Basket

Milk (1L) $2
Bread (loaf) *$2
Eggs (12) $2
Rice (1kg) *$1
Chicken (1kg) *$3

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Eating Out

Meal (Inexpensive) *$6
Meal (Mid-range) $10
Cappuccino $3
Water (0.33L) *$2

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Utilities & Lifestyle

Utilities (mo) $175
Mobile Plan (mo) $28
Gym (mo) *$31
Cinema Ticket *$7

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Housing

1BR Center (mo) $330
1BR Outside (mo) *$477
3BR Center (mo) $630
3BR Outside (mo) *$838

* Estimated based on regional averages.

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Common in Tourist Areas
Expat Community
Medium
Top Neighborhoods
El Terronal, San Carlos
Best For
retirees, budget-conscious expats

Expat Life Notes

The largest city in Chiriquí. Popular with retirees who want amenities while being near Boquete.

Pros

  • ✓ Excellent shopping/medical
  • ✓ Inexpensive living
  • ✓ Safe

Cons

  • ✗ Extremely hot
  • ✗ Lacks the charm of Boquete
  • ✗ High traffic

🌐 Infrastructure & Lifestyle

Avg Internet
—
Temperature
—
Annual Rainfall
3509 mm
Coworking Spaces
—
Best Months to Visit
May, Jun, Jul, Aug

Also Consider

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Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about David

Click any question to expand the answer.

David has a population of approximately 82,907 people.

A single person can expect to spend around $1,375 per month in David, including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $550/month.

The nearest airport to David is SJO, approximately 261km away.

David is considered relatively safe, with a safety index of 64.2. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.

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