Panama
What this means for vanlife
Food in Panama is below the world average by 12%. Good for long-term van travel — grocery costs are noticeably lower than in most developed countries.
↑ Year-over-year change: +2% 2026
Index History
Based on World Bank ICP 2021, adjusted with IMF CPI
Compare with Panama
If you spend 100 at home:
Similar Countries
More countries in Americas
FAQ
Is food expensive in Panama?
No, food in Panama is cheap. The VanBasket Index is 88 (world average = 100), meaning food is 12% below the global average — great for budget travel.
How much should I budget for food in Panama per month?
If the world average monthly food spend is $300, in Panama you can expect to spend around $264. This is based on the VanBasket Index of 88 (world = 100).
How does Panama compare to similar countries?
Panama has a VanBasket Index of 88. Similar or nearby countries: Mexico, Romania, Turkey.
How often is the food price data for Panama updated?
The index is updated monthly using IMF Consumer Price Index data. The baseline is from World Bank ICP 2021.