Why We Live in the Chiriqui Highlands in Panama

Last Updated on August 16, 2025 by Retire in Panama

Many attractive factors, including lifestyle, weather, cost of living, and community, bring North American expats to Panama’s Chiriquí Province. Here is what is driving this movement:

Mild Mountain Climate

The Chiriquí Highlands, especially in places like Boquete, Volcán, and the towns in between, have spring-like temperatures all year long. The temperate and clean mountain air is an incredible draw for expats from northern climates with cold winter months. For some, the high humidity with temperatures in the 90s in Panama’s beach areas are just too much for them, so they chose the Chiriqui Highlands.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Chiriquí is much cheaper than in North America or Panama City. Expats often find they can rent or purchase homes at much lower costs than in the U.S. or Canada. They can dine inexpensively on local produce, seafood, and meat. They can also hire weekly help (landscaper, maid) without breaking the bank. This accessibility means it’s often possible for retirees to live a better life on a fixed income.

Strong Expat Community

Chiriquí, especially Boquete, has one of Panama’s largest and most dynamic expat communities. There are also thriving expat communities in Volcan and other province areas. This means easier social integration, especially when new to the community, and the availability of English-speaking services, expat groups, meetups, clubs, and events. For newcomers, such a support network can help to ensure a smoother adjustment to Panama living.

Once of the biggest attraction for expats in Boquete, is its Tuesday and Thursday Markets, which are like a community get together.

Scenic and Outdoor Beauty

Chiriquí boasts lush valleys, coffee farms, rivers, hiking trails, and the country’s highest peak, Volcán Barú. The environment supports a space of wellness and relaxation and provides:

• Hike, birdwatch, horseback riding.
• Travels to local hot springs, trails, and waterfalls.
• The Pacific beaches are just 1 to 2 hours away for some beach time.
• World-class sport fishing and scuba diving resorts in the area.

Quality Infrastructure (Compared to other Latin American countries)

• Relatively stable power, water supply, and internet (Some areas do have some growing to do here)
• High standard of private medicine and hospitals
• Convenient roadways and proximity to David’s Enrique Malek International Airport for easy travel to Panama City or connecting flights abroad
• Safety and Stability

Chiriquí is known as one of the safest provinces in Panama. No place is without fault, but many expats say they feel safe in both rural and urban areas, particularly when living in cities was less safe back home.

Relaxed Lifestyle

Lastly, many expats move to Chiriquí to escape the rat race of the U.S. and Canada. The relaxed atmosphere, friendly locals, and slower pace of life work well for retirees, remote workers, and part-time snowbirds.

For an exclusive small group 3-day Chiriqui Highlands Tour, go here.

 

 

 

Oscar, Megan, & Rod
Retire in Panama Tours

Helping You Call Panama Home!