Is Cancun more expensive than Panama City?

Cancun is 0.6% more expensive than Panama City overall. Rent is 39.7% lower, groceries 6.0% cheaper, and restaurants 15.6% more expensive.

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

Panama City has a purchasing power index of 48.5 while Cancun has 45.6 (NYC = 100). Panama City offers better purchasing power.

Cost of Living Comparison · 2026

🇵🇦 Panama City vs 🇲🇽 Cancun

2026

Cancun is 0.6% more expensive

Category	🇵🇦 Panama City	🇲🇽 Cancun	Difference
Cost of Living	47.2	47.5	+0.6%
Rent	28.7	17.3	-39.7%
Groceries	53.6	50.4	-6.0%
Restaurants	43.0	49.7	+15.6%
Purchasing Power	48.5	45.6	-6.0%

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 Panama City

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