🇺🇸 United States vs 🇵🇦 Panama
Side-by-side early retirement comparison — taxes, cost of living, healthcare, and FIRE number.
Key Takeaway
Panama is significantly cheaper than United States for retirees. With a cost of living index of 50 vs 100, your money goes 50% further in Panama. Capital gains tax is 10% in Panama vs 0% in United States. Use the calculator to see your personalized FIRE number for both countries.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Tax Comparison for Retirees
🇺🇸 United States Taxes
🇵🇦 Panama Taxes
Special Tax Regimes for Expats
Territorial Taxation
Foreign income completely tax-free. Only Panama-source income taxed.
Calculate Your Exact FIRE Number
Enter your portfolio, spending, and retirement age to see a personalized comparison between United States and Panama — with Monte Carlo simulations and tax modeling.
🔥 Open Calculator — United States vs PanamaFAQ: United States vs Panama for Retirement
Is it cheaper to retire in Panama or United States?
Panama has a cost of living index of 50 compared to United States's 100(where US = 100). Panama is significantly cheaper than United States for retirees. Your money goes approximately 50% further in Panama.
How do taxes compare between United States and Panama?
Capital gains tax is 10% in Panama vs 0% in United States. The top income tax rate is 25% in Panama vs 37% in United States. For FIRE retirees, the effective tax rate depends on your withdrawal strategy — use our calculator for a personalized estimate.
What about healthcare in Panama vs United States?
Estimated annual healthcare costs are $4,000 in Panamavs $3,000 in United States. Panama offers public healthcare access for residents.