May 9, 2025
Limitless Team
The decision to move to another country is never easy, especially if you're looking for a place that combines quality of life, security, international connections and a welcoming community. For years now, Panama has become one of the most attractive destinations for Italian citizens seeking to settle in Latin America without sacrificing the comforts of the European lifestyle.
Whether for work reasons, personal endeavors, the search for new opportunities or for reasons of residence and retirement, living in Panama represents a solid option for those arriving from Italy. Its economic stability, strategic location and accessible immigration system create an ideal environment for professionals, families and retirees.
In addition, there are neighborhoods in Panama City that stand out not only for their modern infrastructure, but for being safe areas to live in Panama, with good connectivity, the presence of international schools, medical services, supermarkets and green spaces. These characteristics are key for those who value practicality, well-being and a high quality of life from the first day of arrival.
This article is designed to help you learn about best neighborhoods for Italians in Panama City this 2025. We will tell you which are the areas preferred by the European community and the Expats in Panama, where is the demand for rents of quality, and which neighborhoods have easy access to embassies and corporate offices with a global reach.
Throughout this guide, we'll analyze the unique characteristics of each neighborhood, from the tranquility of Clayton to the cosmopolitan life of Punta Pacifica. We will also talk about key aspects such as accessibility, infrastructure, educational opportunities for those who come with children, and a sense of community for those who seek to integrate little by little into Panamanian life.
So if you're thinking about Move to Panama and you don't know where to start, keep reading. This is a practical, up-to-date guide designed to help you choose the area that best suits your lifestyle and your personal or family needs.
Why are Italians choosing Panama to live in?
There are several reasons why every year more Italian citizens make Panama your new home. From its year-round warm climate to its regular use of the U.S. dollar, the country offers an interesting combination of benefits that attract both young and retired professionals seeking comfort and stability in Central America.
Access to the Panamanian residence
Panama has one of the more accessible migration programs for European citizens, especially those who come from friendly countries such as Italy. Through the Friendly Countries visa, it is possible obtain residency in Panama relatively quickly and with few requirements, such as demonstrating economic solvency and links with the country through employment or business.
This has made many Italians see Panama as a viable alternative to establish themselves in the long term, whether for personal or strategic reasons, such as having a base in Latin America with good air and commercial connectivity.
Relaxed lifestyle, but with modern amenities
Unlike other capitals in the region, Panama City combines first-class urban environments with quiet residential areas full of green areas. This allows you to adopt a balanced lifestyle, with time for work, family and outdoor activities. In addition, there is access to real estate in Panama that fit different budgets, from modern apartments to family homes in low-density areas.
A growing European community
There are several areas where the presence of European expatriates, and in particular, of Italians, is notable. This Italian community in Panama is reflected not only in businesses and restaurants, but in cultural groups, services in Italian, international schools and events that allow us to keep our roots alive without isolating themselves from the local environment.
Key advantages that attract Italians:
- Economic and Political Stability
- Freedom of financial movement (use of the dollar)
- Access to quality private health
- Quality of life at a lower cost than in Europe
- Real estate investment with return potential
For all this, moving to Panama it has become a personal or familiar strategy for those who want quality of life, strategic location and lower language and legal barriers to establishing themselves.
1. East Coast: modern, safe and full of services
When we talk about best neighborhoods in Panama City, Costa del Este frequently appears at the top of the list. It is one of the most modern and best-planned areas in the country, designed since its inception to meet the needs of families, foreign professionals and high-level executives. This makes it a very attractive option for Italians looking for a place to live in Panama safely and comfortably.
First-class urban design
Costa del Este stands out for its organization. From wide avenues and green areas to luxury residential buildings and immediate access to supermarkets, private clinics and shopping centers. The connectivity to the city center, the airport and other key areas is excellent, thanks to the Southern Corridor, making it ideal for those who need to travel for work or frequent trips.
Multicultural environment and expat community
One of the biggest advantages for those arriving from Italy and Europe is the high concentration of Expats in Panama who live in this area. It is common to find international restaurants, bilingual schools, and social activities organized by foreign communities, which help the process of cultural adaptation. It's not uncommon to hear Italian in school corridors or in area stores.
Ideal for families and professionals
Another of Costa del Este's strengths is its family profile. The presence of several international schools recognized causes many foreign families with children to choose this area as their first home in Panama. In addition, its proximity to parks, bike paths, children's areas and quality medical services reinforce this differential value.
Why move to the East Coast?
- One of the safest neighborhoods to live in in Panama in 2025
- Wide range of rentals and high-end properties
- Green areas, boulevards, walkability
- First-class services: supermarkets, pharmacies, schools, clinics
- Easy access to the airport and financial center
In short, living in Costa del Este as a foreigner offers an experience balanced between modern comfort, a sense of community and connectivity. It is no coincidence that it is one of the best areas for foreign families in Panama and one of the most sought after in terms of real estate.
2. Clayton: Nature, Tranquility and International Schools
If you are looking for a residential environment with lots of greenery, tranquility and a strong international presence, Clayton it could be your ideal place for living in Panama. Located west of the city center, it is a neighborhood surrounded by the Camino de Cruces National Park and known for its extensive green areas, spacious houses and family atmosphere.
Clayton is one of the safe areas to live in Panama City, and has attracted diplomats, workers from international organizations such as the UN, and European families who value a more serene pace of life without leaving the city completely.
One of the main reasons why many Italians and others Expats in Panama choose this area is the educational offer. Here you will find international schools in Panama such as the Balboa Academy, an institution with a high academic level, and the Metropolitan School of Panama, both with programs in English and an international curriculum, which facilitates the transition for foreign families with children.
In addition to its quiet environment, Clayton offers good connectivity to other parts of the city thanks to the Northern Corridor, with easy access to the center and the airport. Although it is located a little further away from the bustle of the city, it has everything you need for daily life: supermarkets, pharmacies, banks and small shopping centers that make life more practical.
What makes Clayton a great choice for Italians in Panama?
- Quiet, natural and safe environment, ideal for families.
- Presence of the European community in Panama City, especially diplomats and expatriates from multilateral organizations.
- High-quality international schools within the same neighborhood.
- Reasonable access to the city center and Tocumen International Airport.
From spacious properties to apartments in gated communities with surveillance, the rent in Panama within Clayton it may be higher than in other areas, but it offers a lifestyle highly valued by those who prioritize tranquility and the most natural environments.
In short, Clayton represents one of the best areas for foreign families in Panama, especially those who prefer low-noise neighborhoods, surrounded by forest and with first-class school services, all within the city.
3. San Francisco: Urban Life and Quick Access to Everything
For those who prefer a more active, connected and urban lifestyle, San Francisco It is positioned as one of the best neighborhoods for Italians in Panama City this 2025. Strategically located between the financial center and Via Israel, this neighborhood mixes tradition with modernity, and is famous for its dynamic environment, entrepreneurial environment and proximity to key services.
San Francisco has become one of the favorite places where Do foreigners live in Panama, thanks to its excellent connectivity and variety of services. Here you can walk to supermarkets such as Riba Smith and Super 99, as well as having quick access to shopping centers such as Multiplaza Pacific and green spaces such as Omar Park, the natural lung of the neighborhood that offers a place to walk, run or enjoy with the family.
One of the great benefits of moving to Panama City and living in San Francisco is its diversity. It's an area that combines modern buildings with remodeled traditional houses, giving the neighborhood an authentic identity. Many young professionals, entrepreneurs and digital nomads choose this area because it allows them to be close to everything without giving up a local life with a Panamanian flavor.
When it comes to the real estate market, San Francisco offers a wide range of options for those looking for real estate in Panama. From modern apartments with city or ocean views, to small properties ideal for couples or single people, the neighborhood balances quality, location and price well.
Key benefits of living in San Francisco:
- Ideal for those who value mobility and immediate access to services.
- Diverse environment with foreigners of different nationalities, including a small but active one Italian community in Panama.
- Proximity to business areas, offices, banks and private schools.
- Quick access to public transport and main road corridors.
San Francisco is also an excellent option if you are thinking about starting a business or working remotely, since the neighborhood has a growing range of coworkings, cafés and creative spaces. In addition, many buildings have modern common areas that include gyms, swimming pools and social rooms, key elements if you're looking for a safe area to live in Panama with all the amenities.
In short, this neighborhood represents the best of both worlds: the dynamism of the city and the comfort of a well-planned area, with a more relaxed style than the financial center. For these reasons, San Francisco continues to gain popularity among best neighborhoods for foreigners in Panama, and it's a natural option before exploring more exclusive alternatives such as Punta Pacifica.
4. The Crab and 5. Punta Pacifica: cosmopolitan and luxurious option
The Crab and Punta Pacifica represent two complementary faces of urban life in Panama City. Although both neighborhoods stand out for being cosmopolitan, safe areas with an excellent location, each one has a different personality that attracts different profiles of Italians and Europeans who move to Panama in 2025.
The Crab: Diversity, Culture and Life on Foot
Located in the Bella Vista district, The Crab is known as one of the most vibrant and walkable areas in Panama City. Here, life is mainly done on foot, with cafés, international restaurants, bookstores and small shops scattered on tree-lined streets that evoke a European atmosphere.
Muchos Expats in Panama, especially young professionals, creatives and couples without children, choose El Cangrejo because of its balance between social life and tranquility. In addition, it is an area where there is already a small but active one European community in Panama City, making it easier to integrate.
Some notable features include:
- Good offer of rent in Panama in medium-rise buildings with varied architecture
- Access to Italian restaurants, bakeries and gourmet shops
- Nearby public transport (metro line 1)
- Safe environment with constant police presence
This neighborhood is also well suited to those who are processing their residence in Panama and they want to live an authentic urban experience with a European touch.
Punta Pacifica: comfort, luxury and unparalleled views
On the other hand, Punta Pacifica is synonymous with modern luxury. Located in front of the sea, in the most luxurious area of San Francisco, this neighborhood includes high-end residential skyscrapers, exclusive shopping centers and first-class private clinics.
It's ideal for families, frequent executives, or people who value privacy, advanced security, and comfortable living without having to move too far from home. Punta Pacifica is especially well valued among those looking to invest in the real estate in Panama with long-term profitability expectations.
Benefits of living in this area include:
- Buildings with luxury amenities (gyms, swimming pools, 24/7 security)
- Proximity to Multiplaza — one of the most complete shopping centers in Panama
- Johns Hopkins Affiliated Private Hospital (Pacific Salud)
- Fast connection to the Southern Corridor (key way to get to the airport or East Coast)
Where do foreigners live in Panama? Punta Pacifica is definitely a favorite among residents of the U.S., Europe and South America. Although the prices may be higher, many consider that the standard of living and peace of mind justify it.
Both neighborhoods, although different, offer solid options for those who value urban lifestyles. While El Cangrejo is more affordable and bohemian, Punta Pacifica is aimed at those seeking privacy, luxury and exclusivity. In both cases, they are safe and well-positioned areas for those who are considering Where to move in Panama City with high quality of life.
✍🏼 Take note...
Panama City offers a unique combination of modernity, security and variety for those arriving from Italy in search of a new life. From the exclusivity of East Coast, the tranquility surrounded by nature in Clayton, to the connected vitality of San Francisco, contrasts make it possible for each person to find their ideal place. In addition, The Crab and Punta Pacifica complete the picture with options ranging from cultural European style to beachfront luxury.
these best neighborhoods for Italians in Panama City stand out for their security, access to key services, the presence of international schools and a friendly environment for Expats. If you are thinking about Move to Panama in 2025, this guide gives you a concrete basis for making an informed and realistic decision.
If you are evaluating where to settle in Panama City and need personalized guidance, at Limitless Legal we can help you understand how the process works residency, which areas best suit your profile and how to navigate the real estate market safely. Contact us to receive legal advice adapted to your situation and start your journey to a new life in Panama with confidence.