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Panama City vs Houston

United States vs United States · 943 km apart

Panama City

United States

$1,246

single / month

Cheaper overall
VS

Houston

United States

$1,635

single / month

Category Breakdown (USD)

ExpensePanama CityHoustonCheaper
Meal at an inexpensive restaurant$11.25$14.40Panama City
Three-course meal for two, mid-range$45.00$57.60Panama City
Cappuccino$3.38$4.32Panama City
Monthly groceries (single person)$255$326Panama City
Monthly public transport pass$41.25$52.80Panama City
Basic utilities for an 85m² apartment$109$139Panama City
Internet (60 Mbps, unlimited)$31.50$40.32Panama City
Fitness club membership$31.50$40.32Panama City
Cinema ticket$8.25$10.56Panama City
One-bedroom apartment in city centre$713$971Panama City
One-bedroom apartment outside centre$496$675Panama City
Three-bedroom apartment in city centre$1,488$2,026Panama City
Total single-person budget$1,246$1,635Panama City
Average net salary$3,900$4,992

Verdict

Panama City is cheaper overall. A single-person monthly budget in Panama City runs about $1,246 versus $1,635 in Houston — a difference of roughly 31%.

Salary-adjusted, Houston leaves more disposable income after basic expenses. Both figures are model estimates — see each city page for local-currency detail.

Full cost of living in Panama City  ·  Full cost of living in Houston

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Panama City cheaper than Houston?
Yes. A single person spends an estimated $1,246 per month in Panama City versus $1,635 in Houston — about 31% less.
How far is Panama City from Houston?
The straight-line distance between Panama City and Houston is approximately 943 km (586 miles).
Which city has better salaries, Panama City or Houston?
The estimated average net salary is $3,900 in Panama City and $4,992 in Houston. After living costs, a single person keeps roughly $2,654 in Panama City versus $3,357 in Houston per month.