Austin vs Panama City

Cost of living comparison for 2026. Panama City is roughly 44% more affordable than Austin (index 31 vs 55, New York = 100). Data sourced live via AI — updated regularly.

Panama City
More affordable overall
44% cheaper than Austin · Cost index: 31 vs 55

Life Power at $3,000/mo

The same salary ranks differently depending on where you live — from Beggar to King.

Head-to-Head Stats

55Cost Index31✓
4,375✓Median Income /mo1,300
45Safety Index60✓
0✓Income Tax %15
184✓Internet (Mbps)75
350Coworking /mo200✓

Price Breakdown

AustinCategoryPanama City
$2,814/month
1-BR Apartment (Center)
53% ← cheaper
$1,320/month
$1.1/liter
Meal for One
9% ← cheaper
$1/liter
$18/meal
Restaurant (Mid-range)
33% ← cheaper
$12/meal
$41.25/month
Monthly Transit Pass
49% ← cheaper
$21/month
$172.6/month
Utilities (Monthly)
28% ← cheaper
$124/month
$120/visit
Doctor Visit
67% ← cheaper
$40/visit

Digital Nomad Profile

Austin

Internet184 Mbps
Coworking$350/mo
Café WiFiexcellent
Englishhigh
Communitylarge
Walkability68/100

Panama City

Internet75 Mbps
Coworking$200/mo
Café WiFigood
Englishmoderate
Communitygrowing
Walkability55/100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Austin cheaper than Panama City?

Panama City is cheaper than Austin. Panama City has a cost of living index of 31/100 compared to 55/100 for Austin (New York = 100), making it roughly 44% more affordable overall.

How much cheaper is Panama City than Austin?

Panama City is approximately 44% cheaper than Austin based on cost index scores (31 vs 55, where New York = 100). A person spending $3,000/month in Austin could live a similar lifestyle for roughly $1,684/month in Panama City.

What is the rent comparison between Austin and Panama City?

In Austin, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $2,814/month. In Panama City, the equivalent is around $1,320/month.

Which city is better for digital nomads — Austin or Panama City?

Both cities have nomad infrastructure. Austin offers 184 Mbps internet and coworking at ~$350/month. Panama City offers 75 Mbps and coworking at ~$200/month. Panama City has a cost advantage of 44%.

What is the average income in Austin vs Panama City?

The median net monthly salary in Austin is approximately $4,375 USD, compared to $1,300 USD in Panama City.

Compare Austin with…

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