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Panama City, FL

Frequently asked questions

Panama City, FL

Panama City is a city in and the county seat of Bay County, Florida, United States. Located along U.S. Highway 98 (US 98), it is the largest city between Tallahassee and Pensacola. It is also the most populated city and a principal city of the Panama City–Panama City Beach, Florida Metropolitan Statistical Area. As of the 2020 census, the population was 32,939, down from the figure of 36,484 at the 2010 census.

The approximate coordinates for the City of Panama City is located at 30°10′28″N 85°39′52″W (30.174451, –85.664480) within the Florida Panhandle, and along the Emerald Coast.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city limits encompass an area of 35.4 square miles (91.8 km²), of which 29.3 square miles (75.8 km²) is land and 6.2 square miles (16.0 km²), or 17.39%, is water.

The development in this once-unincorporated part of Northwest Florida was created by combining the settlements and communities of Floriopolis, Harrison, Millville, Park Resort, and St. Andrews. In 1906, the development was named Panama City and it was first incorporated as Panama City in 1909. When Panama City was incorporated, its original city limits were 15th Street (Hwy 98) on the north, Balboa Avenue on the west, and Bay Avenue on the east. According to the Panama City Public Library's A History of Panama City, George Mortimer West hoped to spur real estate development in Bay County during a period of intense popular interest in the construction of the Panama Canal by changing the town's name from Harrison to Panama City, because a straight line between Chicago and the Central American country Panama's national capital intersected the Florida town. 

The city places a significant emphasis on health and wellness, given its coastal location and outdoor lifestyle. Access to healthcare services is facilitated by facilities such as the Gulf Coast Regional Medical Center, ensuring that residents have comprehensive medical care. The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Orlando, Grande Lakes offers a luxurious retreat with a range of treatments including massages, facials, and body therapies. The Breakers Palm Beach is situated in Palm Beach, this historic resort features a lavish spa offering ocean-inspired treatments, wellness programs, and beauty services. Lapis Spa at Fontainebleau Miami Beach boasts a stunning design and a wide array of services such as massages, body scrubs, and hydrotherapy. Waldorf Astoria Spa, Boca Raton offers a tranquil setting with personalized treatments, relaxation lounges, and a full-service salon. The Spa at Naples Grande provides a peaceful atmosphere with services like massages, facials, and body wraps, along with a private outdoor meditation lounge.

Top Sites in Panama City, FL: Gulf World Marine Park, Shipwreck Island Waterpark, ZooWorld Zoological Park.

Population: 32,939 (2020). ZIP Codes: 32401. Area codes: 850, 448. Elevation: 26 ft (8 m). Area: 41.27 sq mi (106.90 km²).

FAQs

What is the crime rate in Panama City, FL?

With a crime rate of 37 per one thousand residents, Panama City has one of the highest crime rates in America compared to all communities of all sizes - from the smallest towns to the very largest cities. One's chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime here is one in 27.

Why is Panama City, FL so popular?

Panama City Beach, on Florida's Emerald Coast, is sometimes called “The Spring Break Capital of the World”. Its beautiful beaches, great nightlife, and countless theme parks and arcades make it a great place for a fun break in the sun. It's not just a destination for college kids, either.

What is the cost of living in Panama City, FL?

The cost of living in Panama City, FL is relatively affordable compared to other cities in the United States. According to BestPlaces, the overall cost of living index is about 12% lower than the average for the United States. Specifically, housing costs tend to be significantly lower than the national average, with a one-bedroom apartment in the city center costing around $619 per month and a three-bedroom apartment outside of the city center costing about $859 per month. Groceries are also cheaper than average in Panama City, FL, at an estimated 8.25% lower than the national rate. Additionally, transportation and utility costs are also slightly below average. Overall, Panama City offers a great cost of living for those looking for affordability while still enjoying all that this coastal city has to offer.

Sources

City of Panama

Wikipedia

hotels.com

Bestplaces

neighborhoodscout

Gulf Coast Regional Medical Center

Ritz-Carlton Spa

Breakers Palm Beach

Lapis Spa at Fontainebleau Miami Beach

Waldorf Astoria Spa, Boca Raton

The Spa at Naples Grande

Gulf World Marine Park

Shipwreck Island Waterpark

ZooWorld Zoological Park

The content herein is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medical information changes constantly, and therefore the content on this website should not be assumed to be current, complete or exhaustive. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor or 9-1-1 (in the United States) immediately.