Relocate IndexCosta Rica vs Panama for Relocation 2026
Costa Rica scores 59.6 overall vs Panama's 53.2. Costa Rica leads on rule of law, school culture, healthcare, infrastructure, climate, english proficiency. Panama leads on purchasing power, safety, religious freedom.
Both countries are in Latin America. See all countries in Latin America.
Score comparison
| Dimension | Costa Rica | Panama | Delta |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purchasing Power | 63 | 72 | -9 |
| Rule of Law | 66 | 46 | +20 |
| Safety | 31 | 41 | -10 |
| Warmth | — | — | — |
| School Culture | 46 | 26 | +20 |
| Healthcare | 58 | 54 | +4 |
| Infrastructure | 50 | 46 | +4 |
| Climate | 90 | 69 | +21 |
| Religious Freedom | 87 | 88 | -1 |
| English Proficiency | 46 | 36 | +10 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Costa Rica or Panama better for relocation?
Costa Rica scores 59.6 overall compared to Panama's 53.2 across 10 relocation dimensions. Costa Rica leads on 6 dimensions while Panama leads on 3.
Which is safer, Costa Rica or Panama?
Panama scores higher on safety: Costa Rica 31 vs Panama 41, based on homicide rates (UNODC) and residents' crime reports (Numbeo).
What is the biggest difference between Costa Rica and Panama?
The largest gap is in climate: Costa Rica scores 21 points higher (90 vs 69).