# Economic indicators in Panama and Costa Rica

> Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/economic-indicators-in-panama-and-costa-rica
> Updated: 2026-10-06T20:24:44.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 2.

Economic data for Latin America highlights Panama and Costa Rica as significant outliers in several fiscal metrics. 

Initial reports identify Panama as the most expensive country to live in the region, with an estimated monthly expenditure of $2,180 per person, largely driven by housing costs. Costa Rica is noted as the second most expensive nation. 

Subsequent data from the Institute of International Finance (IIF) indicates that Panama and Costa Rica also lead the region in per capita public debt. Panama reports a per capita debt of $14,338, while Costa Rica follows at $13,105. These figures exceed those of other major regional economies such as Argentina, Brazil, and Mexico.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-06: Panama and Costa Rica lead Latin America in per capita public debt

Panama and Costa Rica have the highest public debt per capita in Latin America, with Panama leading at $14,338 per inhabitant.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/panama-and-costa-rica-lead-latin-america-in-per-capita-public-debt

### 2026-09-28: Panama identified as most expensive country to live in Latin America

A Wise report identifies Panama as the most expensive country to live in Latin America, with monthly costs averaging $2,180, while Venezuela remains the least expensive at $802.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/panama-identified-as-most-expensive-country-to-live-in-latin-america

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Cite as: Economic indicators in Panama and Costa Rica. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/economic-indicators-in-panama-and-costa-rica