35 Pros and Cons of Living in the Czech Republic for Expats

Looking to move to the Czech Republic?

You might be drawn by the incredibly low cost of living, the plentiful international jobs, or the renowned nightlife in Prague.

But living in any country has its pros and cons.

To help you make an informed decision, I’ve compiled a list of 35 things to consider before making your move.

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Where is the Czech Republic?

The Czech Republic is located in Central Europe, bordered by Poland to the north, Germany to the west and Austria to the south.

It’s a small landlocked country with a population of just over 10 million people.

Czech Republic History

The Czech Republic has a long and complicated history, having been ruled by everyone from the Celts to the Nazis.

It was part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire until 1918 when it became an independent state.

After World War II, it was occupied by the Soviet Union until 1989 when the Velvet Revolution saw the country transition to a democracy.

The Czech Republic joined the European Union in 2004.

Since then, it has grown to be one of the safest countries in the EU and has one of the lowest unemployment rates.

What is the Czech Republic known for?

The Czech Republic is perhaps best known for its capital city, Prague.

Prague is a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful architecture, history, and culture.

Other popular tourist destinations in the Czech Republic include Český Krumlov, Karlovy Vary, and the Moravian Karst.

The Czech Republic is also known for its beer and glassmaking industry.

Pros and Cons of Living in the Czech Republic

1. Pro: Low Housing Costs

Housing costs in the Czech Republic are some of the lowest in Europe.

Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Prague averages just $500 per month. (That’s in the city centre!). In other areas in the Czech Republic, you can find similarly cheap apartments or even rental houses for under $750USD per month.

Utilities are also relatively cheap, averaging around $100 per month.

2. Con: Higher Costs for Foreigners

However, the cheapest rental units are not available to foreigners.

Expats aren’t able to rent through municipalities, which offer rent control. Instead, you’ll have to rent privately owned apartments and houses.

This means the individual can greatly increase the price of the units.

However, rates are still usually under $1,000 USD to rent across the major cities.

3. Pro: Incredibly Safe

The Czech Republic is an incredibly safe place to live.

There is very little crime, especially violent crime.

The Czech Republic consistently ranks as one of the safest countries in the EU.

4. Con: Except for Pickpockets

However, there is one crime that does plague tourists and foreigners living in the Czech Republic – pickpocketing.

This petty crime is most common in Prague, but it can happen anywhere.

Be sure to keep an eye on your belongings when you’re out and about.

When you’re on crowded public transportation especially, or in tourist sites like the Kutna Hora Bone Church, you’ll want to keep an eye on your bag.

5. Pro: Eating Out is Cheap and Delicious

One of the best things about living in the Czech Republic is the food.

Meals out are incredibly cheap, with a plate of traditional Czech food costing around $3-5.

You can get a beer for less than $1.50. And if you want to cook at home, groceries are also very inexpensive.

I used to get sausages on a bun with all the fixings for under $2USD every night for dinner. And these were 12 inch sausages that were genuinely so filling I often couldn’t finish them, even after a full day of walking.

6. Con: The Food is Very Meaty

Speaking of the food, it is quite heavy on the meat.

If you’re a vegetarian or vegan, you may have some difficulty finding meals that fit your diet.

There are some vegetarian restaurants in Prague and other larger cities, but they can be quite pricey.

I once paid $15 for what was essentially a plate of fried vegetables.

Whereas, I got that sausage covered in veg and sauerkraut for $2.

7. Pro: Large Expat Population

The Czech Republic has a large expat community.

There are around 500,000 foreigners living in the Czech Republic, most of whom live in Prague.

This means it’s quite easy to make friends and find social activities that fit your interests.

There are meetups for almost everything, from language learning to rock climbing.

And since these foreigners know what it’s like to move to the Czech Republic, they can give you tips and support you as you go through details like setting up your bank account or transferring your driver’s license.

8. Con: But You’ll Need to Learn Some Czech – And It’s Hard

While there is a large expat community, you’ll still need to learn some Czech to get by.

This isn’t necessarily a bad thing – it’s great to learn a new language!

But I will warn you, Czech is not an easy language to learn.

It has 7 cases (compared to the 3 in Germanic languages), a unique alphabet, and many irregular verbs.

Need help learning a new language? I recommend iTalki! I’ve tried ALL the apps, but iTalki is the only way I’ve managed to learn as much as living in the local country.

9. Pro: Incredible Beer

Czechs love their beer, and it shows.

The Czech Republic is ranked 5th in the world for per capita beer consumption.

And it’s not just quantity – Czech beer is high quality and delicious.

You can find a great beer for less than $1.50, and often even cheaper if you go to a grocery store and stock up.

There are many different types of beer, from pale lagers to dark ales.

And if you want to learn more about Czech beer, you can even take a beer tour in Prague!

My drink of choice (that’s not a cocktail) is beer (before I knew I was celiac and back when I drank anyway). In the Czech Republic, I’d often go out to sample every local beer a bar had!

And I still wouldn’t break the bank!

10. Pro: Popular Nightlife Scene

The Czech Republic has a lively nightlife scene, especially in Prague.

There are many bars and clubs to choose from, and you can find something to fit any taste.

In fact, the Czech Republic is known for their cave bars. These are literal underground bars (that definitely aren’t suited for claustrophobic people!).

If you want to go clubbing, there are also many options.

And if you get tired of the club scene, you can always go to a pub or bar instead.

11. Con: People Can Smoke in Bars

Smoking is still quite common in the Czech Republic, especially in bars and clubs.

So if you’re not a fan of smoke-filled rooms, you may want to avoid these places.

Or, if you don’t mind the smoke, at least be prepared for it.

12. Pro: Foreigners Can Get Free Czech Lessons for Kids

If you have kids who are moving to the Czech Republic with you, don’t worry – they can get free Czech lessons!

These lessons are available for foreigners aged 6 to 15.

So if you’re worried about your kids not being able to keep up with their studies in a new country, this is a great option.

It may also allow them to continue in free education offered, as that is all in Czech.

13. Con: You’ll Need to Pay for Private Schools for English Speakers

While Czech lessons are free for foreigners, private schools that teach in English are not.

So if you want your kids to go to an English-speaking school, you’ll need to pay for it.

Prices can range from around $5,000 to $20,000 per year, depending on the school and the location.

14. Pro: University is Free (In Czech)

If you’re looking to further your education, the Czech Republic is a great option.

University is free for Czech citizens and foreigners alike.

So if you want to study in the Czech Republic, you can do so without having to worry about tuition fees.

However, keep in mind that all these free courses are taught in Czech.

Otherwise, they do have low-cost options for English universities as well.

It may as well be free when you compare it to local tuition in the States!

15. Pro: Affordable Cost of Living

The cost of living in the Czech Republic is quite affordable.

Of course, the cost of living will vary depending on the city you’re living in.

Prices are highest in Prague, but even then they’re still quite reasonable.

Beyond housing prices, you’ll also find that food and transportation are quite affordable.

I spent $200 on groceries for a MONTH while living in the Czech Republic. And I didn’t even eat it all because I was busy eating $2 sausages and chimney cakes half the time.

Entertainment costs are incredibly inexpensive. Many bars have free entry. If they have a cover, it’s usually under $5 USD.

Even the nicer restaurants don’t break the bank, with a good meal coming in at around $15-25.

16. Con: Formal Dress Codes for Some Jobs

While the Czech Republic is generally a casual country, there are still some places with strict dress codes.

For example, if you’re working in a bank or another financial institution, you’ll need to dress formally.

So if you don’t own any business clothes, you may need to invest in some before moving to the Czech Republic.

17. Pro: Mild Summers

If you’re moving from a country with extreme weather conditions, you’ll be happy to know that the Czech Republic has fairly mild summers and winters.

Of course, the weather varies depending on the region you’re in.

But generally speaking, you can expect temperatures of around 20-25 degrees Celsius (68-77 degrees Fahrenheit) in the summer.

It’s nicer than many places in Europe where you need to escape to the beach for a hope of not melting from July to August.

18. Con: Cold, Dark Winters

While summers in the Czech Republic are mild, winters can be quite cold and dark.

Temperatures can drop to below freezing, and there’s often snow on the ground from December to March.

So if you’re not a fan of cold weather, you may want to consider living in a different region of the country.

When I was there in winter, I had to buy two sets of thermals.

It was actually colder living in the Czech Republic than in Germany!

I also found it much darker – as in the sun would set very early.

19. Pro: Cheap, Quality Healthcare

The Czech Republic has high-quality, affordable healthcare.

In fact, it’s ranked as one of the best healthcare systems in the world.

If you’re a EU citizen or permanent resident of the Czech Republic, you’ll be able to access free medical care.

For everyone else, healthcare is still quite affordable.

For example, a doctor’s visit can cost as little as $15.

And if you need to see a specialist, you’ll only have to pay around $30.

That’s laughable compared to healthcare costs in America.

20. Con: Long Wait Times for Healthcare

One downside of the Czech Republic’s healthcare system is that there can be long wait times for non-emergency treatments.

For example, it’s not uncommon to have to wait a few weeks to see a specialist.

And doctors visits notoriously run late.

21. Pro: Executive Positions Pay Extremely Well

If you’re working in an executive position, you can expect to earn a very good salary.

In fact, the Czech Republic is ranked as one of the best countries in the world for expats to earn a high income.

So if you’re looking to make some serious money, this is definitely the place to do it.

The minimum wage is also quite high in the Czech Republic, at around $700 per month.

So even if you’re not in an executive position, you can still expect to earn a decent salary considering the average cost of living. For that amount, you may need to get a roommate in Prague, but you could easily survive on that salary.

22. Con: Work Visas Only Last 2 Years

If you’re not an EU citizen, you’ll need to apply for a work visa before moving to the Czech Republic.

The good news is that the process is relatively straightforward.

However, the bad news is that work visas only last for 2 years.

So if you want to stay in the country longer than that, you’ll need to apply for a new work visa – which means more paperwork.

23. Pro: Thriving Economy

The Czech Republic has a thriving economy and is doing quite well compared to other European countries.

In fact, it’s one of the few EU countries that avoided a recession during the financial crisis.

And since then, the economy has been growing steadily.

The unemployment rate is also relatively low, at around 2% pre 2020. And it’s been steadily lowering again since the recent economic issues.

With many international companies having flocked to the Czech Republic for the low running costs in 2004 when it joined the EU, its become an incredible country for job opportunities.

24. Pro: Digital Nomad Visa Option

If you’re a digital nomad, you’ll be happy to know that the Czech Republic offers a special visa just for you.

The visa allows you to stay in the country for up to 1 year and work remotely for a foreign company – it’s called the Zivno visa.

To qualify, you’ll need to prove that you have health insurance and enough money to support yourself.

25. Con: Foreigners Can’t Purchase Property

If you’re not an EU citizen, you’ll be unable to purchase property in the Czech Republic.

However, you can lease property for up to 99 years.

So if you’re planning on living in the Czech Republic long-term, leasing is probably your best option.

Once you get a residence permit, you will be allowed to purchase a house or condo.

26. Pro: Europe is Very Accessible

The Czech Republic is located centrally in Europe, which makes it very easy to travel to other countries.

In fact, you can reach any European country within a few hours by plane.

Or if you’re feeling adventurous, you can take the train or even drive.

I easily went from Austria to the Czech Republic to Germany throughout my stay.

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27. Con: Be Wary of Local Taxi Scams

When taking a taxi in the Czech Republic, it’s important to be aware of scams.

Some taxi drivers will try to take advantage of tourists by overcharging them.

To avoid this, make sure to only take taxis that are registered with the city.

Also, be sure to agree on a price before getting in the taxi.

And always ask for a receipt so you can be sure you’re not being overcharged.

28. Pro: Public Transporation is Clean and Efficient

The Czech Republic has an excellent public transportation system that is both clean and efficient.

In Prague, the Metro is the best way to get around as it’s fast and covers most of the city.

There are also trams and buses, which are slightly slower but still a good option.

Outside of Prague, the bus system is the best way to get around.

There are coach or Greyhound buses between the cities that make it easy to visit the country beyond Prague.

29. Pro: Punctuality is Key

If you’re moving from a country where being late is the norm, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by how punctual Czechs are.

In the Czech Republic, it’s considered very rude to be late.

So if you have a meeting or an appointment, make sure to be on time.

Or better yet, be early.

30. Pro: Czech People are the Nicest

During my time in the Czech Republic, I found the people to be some of the nicest I’ve ever met.

They’re always willing to help and are very friendly.

I even made some great friends while living there. Even people I only met once would follow up with me to ensure I got to destinations I needed to or that I’d found what I needed at shops.

So if you’re looking for a country with nice people, the Czech Republic is the place for you!

31. Con: But Customer Service is Blunt

Although Czech people are some of the nicest you’ll ever meet, their customer service can be a bit blunt.

They’re not known for being the most patient or helpful, especially if you don’t speak Czech.

So if you need help with something, don’t be surprised if you don’t get the best service.

(This is mostly via phones or at large corporations. Day to day, they’re super friendly!)

32. Pro: Immense Musical History

The Czech Republic has a long and rich history of music.

Prague, in particular, is known for its classical music scene.

There are numerous orchestras and operas, as well as many concert halls and music festivals. The Czech Republic is the birthplace of some of the world’s most famous composers, such as Antonin Dvorak and Bedrich Smetana.

If you’re a fan of classical music, the Czech Republic is the place for you.

33. Pro: Live Amongst Castles

The Czech Republic is home to many castles and palaces. In fact, there are over 2,000 of them!

Some of the most famous include Karlstejn Castle, Hradcany Castle, and Lednice-Valtice Complex.

You may recognize them, as they’re often used to film movies and TV shows set in medieval times.

34. Pro: Never Ending Things to Do (+12 UNESCO World Heritage Sites)

There’s never a dull moment in the Czech Republic. There are always things to do, no matter what time of year it is.

And with 12 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, you’ll never run out of places to explore.

Some of the most popular tourist attractions include Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, and the Old Town Square.

Beyond Prague, other places worth visiting are Cesky Krumlov, Karlovy Vary, and Kutna Hora.

35. Pro: Great Quality of Life

The Czech Republic is consistently ranked as one of the best countries in the world to live in and one of the best places in Europe.

It has a high quality of life, low cost of living, and is very safe.

And with its many beautiful cities and towns, it’s no wonder why so many people are moving there.

Best Places to Live in the Czech Republic

Prague

Prague is the capital and largest city in the Czech Republic. It’s also the political, economic, and cultural center of the country.

Prague is a beautiful city with a rich history. It’s known for its castles, palaces, bridges, cathedrals, and museums.

Brno

Brno is the second largest city in the Czech Republic and the capital of the South Moravian Region. It’s located in the southeastern part of the country, about halfway between Prague and Vienna.

Brno is a university city with a large student population. It’s known for its medieval old town, Gothic cathedral, and several castles.

Český Krumlov

Český Krumlov is a small city located in the South Bohemian Region of the Czech Republic. It’s about two hours south of Prague.

Český Krumlov is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. It’s known for its castle and medieval old town.

Olomouc

Olomouc is a city located in the Olomouc Region of the Czech Republic. It’s about two hours east of Prague.

Olomouc is a university city with a large student population. It’s known for its historic center, astronomical clock, and baroque fountain.

Pilsen

Pilsen is a city located in the Plzeň Region of the Czech Republic. It’s about an hour and a half southwest of Prague.

Pilsen is known for its beer, which is some of the best in the world (and the birthplace of the Pilsner).

FAQs

Is the Czech Republic a good place to live?

The Czech Republic is a great place to live. It has a high quality of life, low cost of living, and is very safe. And with its many beautiful cities and towns, it’s no wonder why so many people are moving there.

Is it expensive to live in the Czech Republic?

No! You can easily live on $900 USD per month even in Prague, the largest city in the Czech Republic.

Conclusion: Living in the Czech Republic

Living in the Czech Republic can be a great experience, especially if you’re interested in its history and culture.

The country is known for its castles, palaces, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

And with its high quality of life, low cost of living, and safety, it’s no wonder why so many people are moving there.

If you’re thinking of moving to Europe and want to work for a global corporation, the Czech Republic should be a top contender.

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