Panama City vs Houston

Cost of living comparison for 2026. Panama City is roughly 9% more affordable than Houston (index 30 vs 32, New York = 100). Data sourced live via AI — updated regularly.

Panama City
More affordable overall
9% cheaper than Houston · Cost index: 30 vs 32

Life Power at $3,000/mo

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

Head-to-Head Stats

30Cost Index32
650Median Income /mo3,850
62Safety Index42
15Income Tax %0
95Internet (Mbps)315
380Coworking /mo274

Price Breakdown

Panama CityCategoryHouston
$1,260/month
1-BR Apartment (Center)
3% ← cheaper
$1,225/month
$1.1/liter
Meal for One
4% cheaper →
$1.15/liter
$12/meal
Restaurant (Mid-range)
14% cheaper →
$14/meal
$21/month
Monthly Transit Pass
70% cheaper →
$70/month
$135/month
Utilities (Monthly)
25% cheaper →
$180/month
$60/visit
Doctor Visit
50% cheaper →
$120/visit

Digital Nomad Profile

Panama City

Internet95 Mbps
Coworking$380/mo
Café WiFigood
Englishmoderate
Communitygrowing
Walkability72/100

Houston

Internet315 Mbps
Coworking$274/mo
Café WiFigood
Englishhigh
Communitysmall
Walkability42/100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Panama City cheaper than Houston?

Panama City is cheaper than Houston. Panama City has a cost of living index of 30/100 compared to 32/100 for Houston (New York = 100), making it roughly 9% more affordable overall.

How much cheaper is Panama City than Houston?

Panama City is approximately 9% cheaper than Houston based on cost index scores (30 vs 32, where New York = 100). A person spending $3,000/month in Houston could live a similar lifestyle for roughly $2,741/month in Panama City.

What is the rent comparison between Panama City and Houston?

In Panama City, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $1,260/month. In Houston, the equivalent is around $1,225/month.

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

Both cities have nomad infrastructure. Panama City offers 95 Mbps internet and coworking at ~$380/month. Houston offers 315 Mbps and coworking at ~$274/month. Panama City has a cost advantage of 9%.

What is the average income in Panama City vs Houston?

The median net monthly salary in Panama City is approximately $650 USD, compared to $3,850 USD in Houston.

Compare Panama City with…

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