Merced vs Panama City
Fair Market Rent Comparison — HUD 2025 Data
Quick Answer
Panama City is 20% cheaper for renters. A 2-bedroom rents for $879/mo vs $1,055/mo in Merced — saving $2,112/year.
Rent by Unit Size
| Unit Size | Merced | Panama City | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $696 | $571 | $125 |
| 1 Bedroom | $865 | $706 | $159 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,055 | $879 | $176 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,328 | $1,032 | $296 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,460 | $1,302 | $158 |
| Median Income | $60,958 | $44,385 | $16,573 |
Merced
- Studio
- $696/mo
- 1 BR
- $865/mo
- 2 BR
- $1,055/mo
- 3 BR
- $1,328/mo
- 4 BR
- $1,460/mo
- Median Income
- $60,958/yr
Panama City
- Studio
- $571/mo
- 1 BR
- $706/mo
- 2 BR
- $879/mo
- 3 BR
- $1,032/mo
- 4 BR
- $1,302/mo
- Median Income
- $44,385/yr
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Merced or Panama City cheaper to rent in?
Panama City is cheaper — a 2-bedroom Fair Market Rent is $879/mo vs $1,055/mo in Merced. That's $176/mo or $2,112/year more expensive in Merced (20% higher).
What is the 2-bedroom rent in Merced vs Panama City?
The HUD Fair Market Rent for a 2-bedroom in Merced is $1,055/month. In Panama City, a 2-bedroom FMR is $879/month.
How do incomes compare between Merced and Panama City?
The median household income in Merced is $60,958/year. In Panama City it is $44,385/year. Merced has the higher median income.
What is the studio rent in Merced vs Panama City?
A studio apartment Fair Market Rent in Merced is $696/mo. In Panama City it is $571/mo.