Retiring in Panama: Pros and Cons in 2023

Everything About Retiring in Panama: A Low Tax Gem in Central America

If you have already read any of my other articles about retirement abroad, you can jump straight to the first subtitle (The Pros and Cons of Living and Retiring in Panama). If not, keep reading from the beginning to get some context.

My company helps expats. Many of these people know what they want and just need help. What about retiring in X? What’s your opinion? they ask me.

Often I don’t know what to say. I tell my team to research the destination and write a detailed report so I can give our customers the information they need.

Not surprisingly, most of the destinations are warm places with idyllic beaches.

After a few years doing this, we researched and wrote about multiple Caribbean Islands and Central American countries.

Below is the resumed version of some reports we did, available for free for you:

Republica Dominicana: The Fascination of Retirees and Digital Nomads With This Caribbean Destination

Puerto Rico: The main reason to retire in Puerto Rico might be a word with only 3 letters.

Nicaragua: How a Central-American Country Safer Than Delaware Became Popular Among Pensioners

Jamaica: The Insane Economics Behind the Idea of Retirement in Jamaica

This time, however, we will write about a quite distinct place.

A place with a cosmopolitan allure, where gleaming skyscrapers dot the skyline and a thriving economy pulses with innovation. That melds harmoniously with colonial influences, creating a vibrant mosaic found nowhere else in Central America.

Let’s talk about the idea of retiring in Panama.

The Pros and Cons of Living and Retiring in Panama

Pros of Living or Retiring in Panama

Low cost of living

More about this in the comparison we made at the end of this article.

Panama offers expatriates a low cost of living. This is partly due to home affordability. Expats can usually find cheaper housing possibilities than in Western countries, whether renting or buying.

Aside from housing, daily expenses such as groceries, transportation, and healthcare are reasonably priced in Panama. Grocery stores offer a mix of local and imported products, catering to different preferences. Since it is a tropical country with a large coast, you can expect items like fruits or seafood to have attractive prices.

Private healthcare is also much cheaper than in most developed countries (more about it in a few paragraphs).

The weather is great year-round

Panama has a consistently pleasant* year-round climate, with warm temperatures and a “holiday” atmosphere.

The tropical location provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities and a relaxed lifestyle, making it an enticing destination for anyone seeking enjoyable weather during most of the year.

If you want to escape the hot weather and the need for air conditioning, you can always make a trip to the mountainous region of the country, where it is possible to find a mild climate of eternal spring.

*Except if you are those that hate humidity. More about it in a few paragraphs.

People are friendly and have a relaxed Pace of Living

Panamanians are generally friendly and welcoming to foreigners. At first glance, this may not look that important, but in the long term, it makes a lot of difference.

• Visiting Panama for the first time? If you speak Spanish, notice how Panamanians greet you. Whether it’s a simple “Hola” (hello) or “Buenos días” (good morning), locals are often quick to acknowledge and welcome foreigners with a smile.
• Need directions? Ask someone, and you’ll likely encounter friendly locals willing to lend a hand. Panamanians are often happy to provide directions, suggest popular attractions, or recommend the best places to eat, making you feel at ease and welcome.
• Trying to engage in a conversation? Locals are generally sociable and enjoy engaging in conversations with people from different places. Often they will be curious about your background, where you’re from, and your experiences. This genuine interest fosters a sense of friendliness and openness towards foreigners (and also helps to learn Spanish).

Good and inexpensive Private healthcare (when compared to the US)

For you to understand how much cheaper some medical costs in the private healthcare system of Panama are when compared to the US, here are some examples:

• Medical Consultation: The same routine doctor’s visit in Panama City will cost between $40 to $80, while in Los Angeles it will be between $130 to $350.
• Dental Cleaning: In Panama City, a dental cleaning may cost around $40 to $100, whereas in Los Angeles, it can range from $100 to $200.
• MRI Scan: An MRI scan in Panama City can cost around $400 to $800, whereas in Los Angeles, the price can range from $800 to $3,500.
• Appendectomy: The cost of an appendectomy (surgical removal of the appendix) in Panama City can be approximately $3,000 to $6,000, while in Los Angeles, the price may range from $15,000 to $35,000.

Since there is a solid infrastructure in terms of private hospitals and clinics (and often doctors speak English), private insurance is also cheaper than in the US.

Public transportation is efficient and inexpensive (especially by Latin American standards)

Public transportation options, including buses and taxis, are available at affordable rates, facilitating convenient travel within and between cities.

The Panama Metro system is a modern and reliable mode of transportation, offering air-conditioned trains and bilingual signage, meanwhile, the extensive metro bus system provides a wide network of buses with comfortable features and dedicated lanes, improving travel times.

There is an integrated fare system, the “Tarjeta Metro Bus“, which allows passengers to use a single card for both metro and bus services, making transfers seamless.

Safety (It may be a pro or a con, depending on where you are comparing it to)

Since Panama relies heavily on the tourism industry, the country ensured that the levels of violence stay under control and crime rates are relatively low, especially when compared to nearby nations like Guatemala, Colombia, or Venezuela.

Panama’s homicide rate is only 9.6 per 100,000 residents, one of the lowest in the entire Latin American sub-continent. To put it into perspective, the average homicide rate for Latin America is 22.4 per 100,000 people.

Political and economic stability

For the last few decades, Panama had good governance, with peaceful transfers of power. The country has a strong commitment to ensuring political stability and the rule of law.

They also have experienced robust economic growth over the past decade. The country’s strategic location, the Panama Canal, and its status as a global logistics hub have contributed to its economic success, attracting foreign direct investment and fostering business development.

Another factor is the dollarized economy. Panama adopted the U.S. dollar as one of its 2 official currencies (the other is the Panamanian Balboa) in 1904, providing a stable monetary system. Dollarization eliminates currency exchange rate fluctuations and provides confidence for investors and businesses operating in Panama.

It is also very beneficial for foreign retirees since they don’t lose in exchange rates.

AIRLINE Connectivity to the WORLD

The ample offer of flights from Panama to the US and the rest of the world via Copa Airlines and other companies is a significant advantage for foreign pensioners residing in Panama.

Retirees who have relocated to Panama often have strong ties and close relationships with family and friends back home. The availability of frequent flights allows them to maintain these connections by easily traveling to visit their loved ones or having them visit Panama.

Direct flights eliminate the need for layovers and transfers, making the journey more efficient and comfortable. This is particularly advantageous for older individuals who may prefer to minimize travel fatigue and enjoy a more direct and streamlined travel experience.

Cons of Retiring or Living in Panama

Leaving family and friends behind

Family and friends often provide emotional support and a sense of belonging. Moving to a new country means being physically separated from loved ones, which can lead to feelings of loneliness or homesickness, especially during important life events or celebrations.

Leaving your established social network can be challenging. Building new friendships and connections takes time and effort, and it may take a while to develop a support system in a new country. This can result in a sense of isolation initially until new relationships are formed.

During the rainy season, comes high humidity!

For some, the climate may be too hot and humid, especially in the lower areas (the mountainous region of Panama has a much milder climate) and during the rainy season.

High humidity levels can make the climate feel hot and sticky, potentially leading to discomfort and difficulty in adapting. Constant perspiration and a damp environment is something that bothers some people.

Also, the tropical climate of Panama creates favorable conditions for insects, including mosquitoes and other pests.

The traffic can be congested

Dealing with congested traffic on a daily basis can be stressful, especially for retirees who may prefer a more relaxed and leisurely lifestyle.

Sitting in long queues, maneuvering through heavy traffic, and dealing with aggressive drivers is not what most of us dream of when we think about retirement destinations.

Some of the most congested areas in Panama City include:

• Via España: This major road running through the heart of Panama City often experiences heavy traffic congestion, especially during peak commuting hours.
• Avenida Balboa: This scenic coastal avenue can become heavily congested, particularly during rush hours and on weekends when residents and tourists frequent the area.
• Corredor Sur: This toll road connecting Panama City to the Tocumen International Airport and other areas experiences congestion during peak travel times, especially at the entrance and exit ramps.

Panama Has Its Share of Bureaucratic Problems

Navigating bureaucratic processes may be more challenging for retirees who are not fluent in Spanish, as many official documents and interactions are conducted in the local official language. Language barriers can lead to difficulties in understanding requirements, completing forms, and effectively communicating with government officials.

Additionally, bureaucratic systems in Panama City may suffer from inconsistencies in enforcement, leading to unpredictable outcomes or varying interpretations of regulations.

Speaking Spanish will certainly help you to understand utility bills, or deal with procedures in government offices. It also has many benefits, like removing the language barrier to meet most expats that come from other countries in South America.

Cost of Living in Panama City vs Valência (Spain) and Tampa (the USA)

It’s time for a comparison of the cost to retire in Panama. I will not compare the living costs of Panama City with those of New York or London, because nearly anywhere in the world is cheaper than those two cities.

Let’s compare the cost of living in Panama City with the best city for retirement in Europe (Valencia, Spain) and one of the favorite cities for pensioners in the USA (Tampa, Florida).

All prices are from Numbeo and Expatistan, two websites that crowdsource prices and living costs from thousands of users and contributors. Be aware that Panama City is likely one of the most expensive places in Panama, and smaller cities or rural areas tend to be much cheaper.

A Special Visa & Panama’s Efforts to Become a Retirement Haven

As you can imagine, People on retirement benefits in Panama. Pensioners bring money from abroad and spend it in the local economy, generating more revenue for local businesses.

The Panama Residency Visa Programs (Friendly Nations, Retirement and Investment Based)

Panama is one of the best well-connected countries in entire Latin America.

With Costa Rica (see more about it above), Panama is one of the most attractive countries with retirement visas in Latin America.

Like a few other countries in the region, they also have a visa scheme that facilitates the way to obtain residency status as long as you receive monthly income from overseas.

Minimum Income Required: US$1000 of average monthly income or a deposit of $170,000 for a five-year fixed term in a local bank account.

Final thoughts on retiring in Panama and living in Panama City

If you are looking for a retirement destination that offers a tropical climate, low living costs when compared to the US or Western Europe, beautiful beaches, and a laid-back lifestyle, Panama may be a good choice.

A small but dynamic country located in Central America. Panama offers all the benefits of a warm-weather retirement haven, with the added bonus of political and economic stability, a reliable and relatively inexpensive healthcare system, and modern infrastructure.

A significant advantage of retiring in Panama is the political and economic stability. Unlike many other Latin American countries, Panama has enjoyed years of economic growth and political peace. This political stability has attracted many expats looking for a safe and reliable retirement destination.

In terms of healthcare, Panama’s private facilities are generally of high quality, and doctors often speak good English. Anyone planning on retiring in Panama may also purchase private health insurance at a much lower cost than in the US.

Lastly, Panama offers retirees a favorable tax climate. Things like tax exemptions on pension income from abroad make it an attractive tool to stretch retirement dollars further.

What More You Should Know About Retirement in Panama

1. What makes retirement in Panama an attractive option for expats?

Retire in Panama has become an attractive option for many expats and retirees from around the world. The country’s affordable cost of living, beautiful beaches, and fantastic golf courses are just a few of the reasons why individuals looking to retire are considering Panama as their retirement destination.

Additionally, Panama’s strategic location in Central America and the ease of obtaining a retiree residence visa through the Panama Pensionado Program make this country stand out as one of the best places to retire.

2. How does the cost of living in Panama compare to other retirement destinations?

In the previous paragraphs of this article we made a very interesting price comparison between Panama and other hot retirement destinations. Check above.

The cost of living in Panama can be significantly lower than in many popular retirement destinations, including the United States and Europe. Many expats find that they can maintain a comfortable standard of living in Panama for less than what they would spend in their home countries.

While the costs in Panama City may be higher than other parts of Panama, it’s still possible to live comfortably on a modest budget.

3. What are some of the most popular places for expats to retire in Panama?

Besides the places mentioned above in this article (check in the previous paragraphs), some other popular places to retire in Panama include Panama City, Boquete, El Valle, and beachfront communities along the coast.

Panama City is the bustling capital and offers a mix of modern amenities, a thriving expat community, and a rich cultural scene. Boquete, a charming mountain town, is known for its perfect climate and beautiful garden-scapes. El Valle offers a tranquil setting in a picturesque valley, while beachfront communities provide idyllic spots for those looking to live in Panama near the ocean.

If you enjoyed this article about retiring in Panama, here are a few other reading suggestions for you:

• The Favorite Country for Americans to Retire (By Far) and Why So Many Do So
• The Dreamy Destination That’s 50% Cheaper to Live In than Spain
• Why Did Over 29,000 Americans Choose Italy to Retire To?
• Pros & Cons of Retiring in a Place Where Days Can Last for 19 Hours
• Retirees Choose This Country Due to Low Costs and Simple Pleasures… But Is It Safe?
• Why Did 7539 American Pensioners (And Lewis Hamilton) Move to This Tiny Country?

Subscribe (for free) to receive my articles directly in your inbox and receive a special gift. If you enjoy this article, please consider becoming a Medium member by using this link and have access to premium, unbiased content from authors not tied to big media.

Levi Borba is the founder of The Expatriate Consultancy, creator of the channel The Expat, and best-selling author. Some of the links in this article may be affiliate links, meaning that the author will have a commission for any transactions.

To Retire in Puerto Rico Might Be the Best…

The main reason to retire in Puerto Rico might be a word with only 3 letters

If you have already read any of my other articles about retirement abroad, you can jump straight to the first subtitle (Retire in Puerto Rico: Sunny Beaches with Low Taxes Just Next Door). If not, keep reading from the beginning to get some context.

My company helps expats. Many of these people know what they want and just need help. What about retiring in X? What’s your opinion? they ask me.

Often I don’t know what to say. I tell my team to research the destination and write a detailed report so I can give our customers the information they need.

Not surprisingly, most of the destinations are warm places with idyllic beaches.

After a few years doing this, we researched and wrote about multiple Caribbean Islands and Central American countries.

Below is the resumed version of some reports we did, available for free for you:

Republica Dominicana: The Fascination of Retirees and Digital Nomads With This Caribbean Destination

Nicaragua: How a Central-American Country Safer Than Delaware Became Popular Among Pensioners

Jamaica: The Insane Economics Behind the Idea of Retirement in Jamaica

Panama: Retirement in a Low Tax Gem in Central America

El Salvador: Once The Most Violent Country in the World, Now a Retirement Goal

But recently, we had questions about a certain Caribbean island that is not really a country but still receives plenty of attention from Americans looking to retire abroad.

The reasons for so many people consider this island for retirement became clear to us after our research: it is indeed a good place if you want to make the most for your money while living close to the US.

Retire in Puerto Rico: Sunny Beaches with Low Taxes Just Next Door

During our research, we realized that it would be a bit tricky to write about Puerto Rico given the status of the Island as a US territory.

It is not an independent country, but it is also not a US state. When we tried to get the number of how many Americans live on the Island, we quickly realized that, officially, this question was very stupid: every Puerto Rican is also an American since 1941.

US citizens don’t need a visa or residency permit to live in Puerto Rico.

So technically, if you are a US citizen and have a Puerto Rico retirement plan, you would not be even moving abroad…

Technically, because in practice things are a bit different, and we hope this article will help you to take a decision.

If not, at the end of the article there are free-to-access versions of our other reports. It will be useful if you are a resident of the US, Canada, or Europe and is planning to retire somewhere else.

Read also: The Best Cities to Retire in Europe

Pros of Retiring in Puerto Rico

Read also: 24 Countries Enticing Pensioners By Offering Retirement Visas

Possible Tax Savings

This is the first item because this is what made us research and write about Puerto Rico.

Why not Panama, or Costa Rica? What’s so special about this Caribbean island?

Here is why: there’s one key reason that sets Puerto Rico apart from the rest: the island tax system.

Yes, you heard me right — taxes.

Puerto Rico has some of the most generous tax incentives in the entire world for retirees. We’re talking about a 0% tax rate on certain types of income, such as capital gains and dividend income.

That’s right, zero. Can you believe it?

What are the Tax Benefits of Retiring in Puerto Rico?

• Zero US federal income tax: A US person who is a resident of Puerto Rico may be eligible for a full exemption from US federal income tax on all income earned in Puerto Rico. This is because Puerto Rico is treated as a foreign country for US federal income tax purposes.
• For example: if you receive home or rental property income from an apartment you own in Boston, you may not need to pay taxes for this income to the Puerto Rican government.
• Low-income tax rate: Puerto Rico has its own income tax system, which is generally lower than US federal income tax rates. For example, Puerto Rico’s maximum income tax rate is currently 33%, compared to the top US federal income tax rate of 37%.
• Tax incentives for businesses: Puerto Rico offers tax incentives for businesses that establish operations on the island, which can potentially create job opportunities for retirees and their families.
• No estate or gift taxes: Puerto Rico does not have an estate or gift taxes, which can be beneficial for retirees who want to pass down wealth to their heirs.
• Tax-free investment income: Certain types of investment income, such as capital gains and dividend income, may be exempt from Puerto Rico income tax.
• Low property tax rates: Property taxes in Puerto Rico are generally lower than in many US states, which can help retirees save money on their housing costs.

Important to remember, however, that these tax benefits have eligibility requirements and restrictions, so retirees should consult a tax professional to determine their tax situation.

Read also: The Cheapest Cities to Fly from America to Europe.

Low Cost to Rent or Buy Real Estate

According to data from Realtor.com, the median home value in Puerto Rico as of May 2023 is $351 per square foot. This is significantly lower than the median home value in many US cities. For example:

• In San Francisco, the median home value as of May 2023 is $998 per square foot.
• In the Brooklyn (New York City), the median home value as of May 2023 is $748 per square foot.
• In Los Angeles, the median home value as of May 2023 is $678 per square foot.

Additionally, Puerto Rico has a variety of affordable housing options, including apartments, condos, and single-family homes in regions with solid infrastructure. For example, a search on Zillow for a one-bedroom apartment for rent in San Juan (the capital city) yields many options for less than $2,000 per month.

One reason for the lower housing costs and monthly rent in Puerto Rico is the island’s population decline.

20 years ago, the island had almost 4 million inhabitants, but in 2021 this number was less than 3.3 million. Many residents have left Puerto Rico in recent years, which has contributed to a surplus of available housing.

Beautiful Beaches, Energetic Lifestyle, and Warm People

Another clear pro on most plans to retire in Puerto Rico.

The island boasts some of the most stunning beaches in the Caribbean, with opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities year-round thanks to the tropical climate. In addition, Puerto Rico has a vibrant and energetic culture that nurtures socialization.

Beyond the physical beauty and cultural vibrancy, Puerto Rico is known for its warm and friendly hospitality. The people are family-oriented, and retirees can expect to be treated with respect and kindness by their neighbors and fellow residents.

This strong sense of community makes Puerto Rico a place where retirees can feel welcome and at home.

Easy Access by Air or Sea

Puerto Rico is easily accessible by air and sea transport, with numerous daily flights and frequent cruise ship arrivals, meaning that Americans planning to retire to Puerto Rico would only be a short flight from the mainland.

The Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport in San Juan is the main airport on the island and is served by a variety of domestic and international airlines, including Delta, American Airlines, JetBlue, United, and Southwest.

Some of the busiest routes to Puerto Rico from the US include:

• New York City (JFK, EWR)
• Miami (MIA)
• Fort Lauderdale (FLL)
• Orlando (MCO)
• Atlanta (ATL)

In terms of airfare prices, the cheapest way to travel from the US to Puerto Rico is often by booking a flight well in advance and flying during the low season, which is typically from May to October (excluding school holidays).

During this time, round-trip airfare from the mainland US to San Juan can range from around $200 to $400, depending on the airline and time of booking.

The Cons and Negative Sides of the Idea to Retire in Puerto Rico

Read also: Your Retirement is an Illusion: Why Most of Us Will Work to Death

Poor Public Transportation

Puerto Rico’s public transportation system is unreliable and expensive, making it difficult for residents to access employment and other essential services. The most popular form of transportation, the bus system run by the Metropolitan Bus Authority, is outdated and plagued with breakdowns and unreliable schedules.

The system’s challenges include overcrowding, long wait times, and limited routes in rural areas. While improvements are underway, such as investments in new buses and infrastructure, much work remains to ensure safe, reliable, and affordable transportation options.

Bad Roads

The roads in Puerto Rico are also known to have significant issues.

One major issue is the prevalence of potholes, which can be a significant hazard for drivers. Potholes can damage vehicles and cause accidents and are especially prevalent on older roads that have not been resurfaced in many years.

Eventual natural disasters (Puerto Rico is a major area prone to tropical storms) like Hurricane Maria also contributed to the poor shape of some roads.

One of the worst highways in Puerto Rico is Route 2, which runs between San Juan and Ponce. It has been criticized for its poor condition, with significant potholes and uneven surfaces that can make driving treacherous. Route 3, which runs between San Juan and Fajardo, is also known to have significant issues.

High Cost of Electricity and Goods

Puerto Rico’s high cost of electricity and goods can be attributed to several factors, including the island’s reliance on imported fossil fuels for energy generation, an inefficient and outdated electricity infrastructure, and unique trade policies due to the island’s territorial status.

In addition to the factors mentioned earlier, the fact that Puerto Rico is an island also contributes to the high cost of goods.

The cost of transportation, including shipping and handling, is higher for goods imported to the island than for goods transported within the continental United States. These added transportation costs are passed on to consumers, making goods more expensive overall.

Relative Lack of English Speakers

English is one of the official languages in Puerto Rico, but only around 20% of the population speaks the language fluently. This can make communication challenging for visitors who don’t speak Spanish, especially outside of tourist areas and major cities.

However, many businesses and services in Puerto Rico cater to English-speaking visitors, and locals are generally helpful in navigating the island until any new resident learns the widely spoken Spanish language.

Violent Crime Rates

Puerto Rico has a high violent crime rate, with high rates of homicides and robberies. Crime rates vary across the island and newcomers need to research the crime rates of the specific areas they are considering living in and to take appropriate precautions.

This is one of the reasons that the number of gated communities increased in the country.

The areas we recommended at the end of this article in general have a lower crime rate than the rest of the country.

Cost of Retiring in Puerto Rico

Housing in Puerto Rico

The price of housing varies drastically across the island.

Some of the most expensive parts of Puerto Rico include Condado, Old San Juan, Dorado, Isla Verde, and Guaynabo (soon we will give you some numbers and prices in these cities).

These areas are popular among tourists and locals alike and offer a high standard of living and convenient access to amenities such as shopping, dining, and entertainment.

One reason why these areas are so expensive is their prime location. Many of these neighborhoods are situated along the coast or offer easy access to beaches, which drives up property values. Additionally, these areas tend to be more developed than other parts of the island, with modern infrastructure and a high concentration of luxury homes and condominiums.

Overall, while these areas may be more expensive than other parts of the island, they offer a high quality of life and a desirable location, making them a popular choice for those seeking a luxury lifestyle in Puerto Rico.

Healthcare in Puerto Rico

Healthcare in Puerto Rico is generally considered to be of a high standard, with both public and private options available. The island is home to some world-class hospitals and clinics, many of which specialize in areas such as cancer treatment, heart disease, and neurology.

One example is the Centro Cardiovascular de Puerto Rico y el Caribe, located in San Juan, which is a leading center for the diagnosis and treatment of heart disease — it is the only place in the Caribbean that performs heart transplants.

Another is the Hospital Auxilio Mutuo, which is known for its cancer treatment facilities and advanced technology.

The average prices for different procedures are way cheaper than in major cities of the United States, and for this reason, private insurance also has lower costs.

Cost of Living in San Juan (Puerto Rico) vs Valência (Spain) and Tampa (the USA)

It’s time for a comparison of the cost to retire in Puerto Rico. I will not compare the living costs for Puerto Ricans with those of New York or London, because nearly anywhere in the world is cheaper than those two cities.

Let’s compare the cost of living in San Juan (Puerto Rico) with the best city for retirement in Europe (Valencia, Spain) and one of the favorite cities for pensioners in the USA (Tampa, Florida).

All prices are from Numbeo and Expatistan, two websites that crowdsource prices and living costs from thousands of users and contributors. Be aware that San Juan is likely one of the most expensive places in Peru, and smaller cities tend to be even cheaper.

What are the best places to retire in Puerto Rico?

Read also: Best Countries to Retire in High-Style (Even If You are Not a Senior)

San Juan

San Juan, the capital and largest city of Puerto Rico, is a popular destination for expatriates and pensioners due to its vibrant culture, the scenic historical town full of Spanish colonial architecture in old San Juan, top-notch dining and entertainment options, modern amenities, and close distance to things like airports or top-notch hospitals.

Additionally, San Juan’s prime location on the northern coast of Puerto Rico offers easy access to the island’s natural attractions and pristine beaches.

Living Cost in San Juan

For more information about the living costs in San Juan, check the comparison we made a few paragraphs above between the Puerto Rican capital vs Tampa and Valencia.

Dorado

Dorado, a town located on the northern coast of Puerto Rico, is an attractive retirement destination for US citizens seeking a quieter and more relaxed lifestyle than that of San Juan.

It has a small-town charm and a more laid-back atmosphere, magnificent beaches, lush greenery, and tranquil residential neighborhoods, making it an ideal place for retirees who want to escape the crowds and noise of the city.

Additionally, Dorado offers a range of high-quality amenities and services, including several top-rated golf courses, luxury resorts, and fine dining options. The town also has several modern conveniences, such as shopping centers and medical facilities, which make it a comfortable and convenient place to live.

The town is also just a short drive away from San Juan, making it easy to enjoy the city center’s culture and entertainment options without having to deal with the noise and congestion of urban living.

Living Cost in Dorado

Some average prices you will find in Dorado are:

• A 3-course meal for 2 people in a mid-range restaurant: $70.00 (if we talk about an inexpensive restaurant, the price is half of that).
• Fitness club monthly pass for 1 adult: $52.50
• Median listing home price per square foot: $481 (it is a bit more expensive than San Juan since it is a more upscale city)

If you enjoyed this article about how to retire in Puerto Rico, here are a few other reading suggestions for you:

• The Favorite Country for Americans to Retire (By Far) and Why So Many Do So
• The Dreamy Destination That’s 50% Cheaper to Live In than Spain
• Why Did Over 29,000 Americans Choose Italy to Retire To?
• Pros & Cons of Retiring in a Place Where Days Can Last for 19 Hours
• Retirees Choose This Country Due to Low Costs and Simple Pleasures… But Is It Safe?
• Why Did 7539 American Pensioners (And Lewis Hamilton) Move to This Tiny Country?

Subscribe (for free) to receive my articles directly in your inbox and receive a special gift. If you enjoy this article, please consider becoming a Medium member by using this link and have access to premium, unbiased content from authors not tied to big media.

Levi Borba is the founder of The Expatriate Consultancy, creator of the channel The Expat, and best-selling author. Some of the links in this article may be affiliate links, meaning that the author will have a commission for any transactions.