Is Panama City more expensive than Cancun?

Panama City is 0.4% more expensive than Cancun overall. Rent is 51.4% higher, groceries 11.1% more expensive, and restaurants 14.8% cheaper.

Which city has better purchasing power, Cancun or Panama City?

Cancun has a purchasing power index of 48.8 while Panama City has 45.1 (NYC = 100). Cancun offers better purchasing power.

Cost of Living Comparison · 2026

🇲🇽 Cancun vs 🇵🇦 Panama City

2026

Panama City is 0.4% more expensive

Category	🇲🇽 Cancun	🇵🇦 Panama City	Difference
Cost of Living	49.5	49.7	+0.4%
Rent	17.9	27.1	+51.4%
Groceries	54.9	61.0	+11.1%
Restaurants	51.5	43.9	-14.8%
Purchasing Power	48.8	45.1	-7.6%

Data verified Q1 2026 · Source: Numbeo cost-of-living indices (NYC = 100 baseline) · Indices reflect relative costs; absolute prices vary by neighbourhood.

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🇲🇽 Cost of Living in Cancun

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