Cost of Living in the Czech Republic
The cost of living in the Czech Republic depends on your lifestyle and where you choose to live. While big cities like Prague are more expensive, smaller towns offer a more affordable way of life. Still, Czechia remains a budget-friendly destination compared to many Western European countries.
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In this Pacific Prime article, we’ll explore the cost of living in the Czech Republic—everything from housing, food, transportation, to healthcare. We’ll also explain why securing international health insurance in the Czech Republic is crucial for expats seeking protection.
Cost of Housing in the Czech Republic: Renting and Buying as an Expat
Housing in the Czech Republic remains relatively affordable compared to many Western European countries, making it an attractive destination for expats, students, and remote workers.
In Prague, the capital and the most expensive city in the country, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center typically costs around 25,000 CZK per month (1,100 USD), which is significantly cheaper than similar rentals in cities like Paris or Milan.
In Brno, the second-largest city, a similar apartment rents for around 17,000 CZK (750 USD). Rent drops even further in smaller cities such as Olomouc, Plzeň, or České Budějovice, where a one-bedroom apartment can be found for as low as 12,000 CZK (500 USD).
For expats or students looking for affordable housing, living in smaller towns of Czechia provides excellent value without sacrificing quality of life.
Important note: Although the Czech Republic is a member of the European Union, it does not use the euro as its official currency. Instead, it uses the Czech Koruna (CZK), also known as Czech Crowns. It is recommended to change your Euros at the bank and pay for everything in Czech crowns
Buying Property in the Czech Republic as an Expat
For expats looking to settle long-term, buying a home in the Czech Republic can also be a cost-effective option, though prices have been rising in urban areas.
In Prague, the average price per square meter for an apartment in the city center is around 150,000–180,000 CZK (6,700–8,100 USD). A 70-square-meter apartment could easily cost over 10 million CZK (450,000 USD).
In Brno, prices are slightly lower, averaging 100,000–150,000 CZK per square meter (~4,500–6,700 USD). In smaller towns, the cost per square meter can be as low as 60,000–80,000 CZK (~2,700–3,600 USD), offering significantly better value for money.
Can Foreigners Buy Property in the Czech Republic?
Almost anyone can buy property in the Czech Republic, including foreigners. There are no major restrictions; both EU and non-EU citizens are allowed to purchase property, including apartments, houses, and even land. You don’t need to be a resident or have a Czech spouse.
Here’s a quick overview of who can buy property in the Czech Republic (except state-owned properties):
- Czech citizens
- Czech-based companies (legal entities with headquarters in the Czech Republic)
- Individuals granted asylum in the Czech Republic
- EU citizens
- Non-EU citizens
There are no major legal barriers for foreigners, but it’s recommended to get legal advice to navigate contracts, taxes, and registration properly.
Utilities Costs in the Czech Republic
In the Czech Republic, monthly utility bills average 6,720 CZK (~295 USD), which is about 18.6% of the average monthly salary of 36,180 CZK (~1,590 USD). Electricity costs around 3.25 CZK (~0.14 USD) per kWh, and water costs around 134 CZK (~5.90 USD) per cubic meter.
Monthly mobile phone bills average around 600 CZK (~27 USD), while home internet with unlimited 60 Mbps speeds typically costs about 455 CZK (~21 USD).
Groceries and Food Costs in the Czech Republic
Czechia ranks among the most affected EU countries by rising food prices, recording the second-fastest increase after Turkey. Factors such as inflation, global supply chain disruptions, and high energy costs have contributed to spikes in the prices of produce, fruits, and vegetable oil.
Here’s a table for the average prices of common grocery items in the Czech Republic
| Item | Prices in CZK (USD) |
| Milk (regular), (1 liter) | 25.26 CZK (~1.11 USD) |
| Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g) | 34.37 CZK (~1.51 USD) |
| Rice (white), (1kg) | 52.40 CZK (~2.31 USD) |
| Eggs (regular) (12) | 68.07 CZK (~2.99 USD) |
| Local Cheese (1kg) | 270.68 CZK (~11.91 USD) |
| Chicken Fillets (1kg) | 197.48 CZK (~8.69 USD) |
| Apples (1kg) | 35.71 CZK (~1.57 USD) |
| Potato (1kg) | 29.36 CZK (~1.29 USD) |
| Onion (1kg) | 24.75 CZK (~1.09 USD) |
| Water (1.5-liter bottle) | 17.39 CZK (~0.77 USD) |
| Domestic Beer (0.5-liter bottle) | 20.83 CZK (~0.92 USD) |
Having lunch at a standard restaurant in Prague typically costs around 180–250 CZK (~8–11.50 USD) for a main course with a side. Dinner at a mid-range restaurant usually ranges from 250–350 CZK (~11.50–16 USD).
To save money, look for daily specials, and keep in mind that Prague’s tap water is safe to drink, so you don’t have to always order bottled water.
Transportation Costs in the Czech Republic
Public transport in Prague is cheap, safe, efficient, and highly integrated. The main modes of public transport in the city center are the Prague Metro and trams.
The Czech Republic’s central location in Europe makes it an excellent hub for regional travel, with extensive rail connections to neighboring countries and budget airline options from Prague’s Václav Havel Airport.
Ticket Types
A ticket for the Prague Public Transport Network allows travel on the metro, trams, and buses for a fixed duration: 30 minutes, 90 minutes, 24 hours, 72 hours, or one month.
Tickets can be purchased from orange or yellow machines found at metro stations, inside trams and buses, and at major tram and bus stops.
Public Transport Ticket Prices (2025-2026)
| Ticket Type | ADULT & STUDENT (15–59 YRS) | SENIOR (65+ YRS) passport or EU ID required | SENIOR (60–64 YRS) passport or EU ID required | CHILD (0–14 YRS) passport or EU ID if 10+ |
| 30 minutes | 30 CZK (~1.32 USD) | Free | 15 CZK (~0.66 USD) | Free |
| 90 minutes | 40 CZK (~1.76 USD) | Free | 20 CZK (~0.88 USD) | Free |
| 24-hour pass | 120 CZK (~5.28 USD) | Free | 60 CZK (~2.64 USD) | Free |
| 72-hour pass | 330 CZK (~14.52 USD) | Free | 330 CZK (~14.52 USD) | Free |
| 1-Month pass | 1,000 CZK (~44.00 USD) | Free | 1,000 CZK (~44.00 USD) | Free |
Free Travel: Seniors aged 65+ years and children aged 0–14 years are entitled to free public transport and do not need a ticket. However, they must carry a passport or an EU national ID card showing their date of birth and be prepared to present it upon request by a transport official.
Renting a Car in the Czech Republic
The cost of car rentals in Czechia depends on the tourist season. The cheapest month to rent a car is March, with an average cost of 820 CZK/day (~36 USD/day). August is the most expensive month, with average prices around 1,390 CZK/day (~61 USD/day).
Entertainment and Leisure in the Czech Republic
Entertainment in Czechia is more affordable compared to many Western European countries. For instance, a movie ticket costs around 200 CZK (~8.80 USD). Monthly gym memberships range from 300 to 500 CZK (~13–22 USD). Local pubs offer beer at around 25–30 CZK (~1.10–1.30 USD) for half a liter.
Living in Prague also means having easy access to its iconic landmarks, many of which are within walking distance and free to visit, such as Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, Old Town Square, and the famous Astronomical Clock.
Overall, the Czech Republic offers a wide range of low-cost leisure options alongside a vibrant cultural atmosphere.
Education Costs in the Czech Republic
Education costs in the Czech Republic range from free at public schools to as much as USD 35,000 at private international schools.
Education in the Czech Republic is divided into several levels according to the child’s age.
- 0-3 years: nursery
- 3-5 years: (optional) preschool or child group
- 5-6 years: compulsory preschool year
- 6-15 years: elementary school
- 15-18 years: secondary vocational school
- 15-19 years: secondary vocational school/grammar school/lyceum
- 19/20-26 years: university
In the Czech Republic, children are required to attend school for 10 years as part of compulsory education. State schools offer free education for all children, including expat children of EU nationals or legal residents. Instruction is primarily in Czech, with English or German as a second language.
Private and International School Costs in the Czech Republic
International schools can be costly, with annual tuition ranging from 300,000 CZK to 800,000 CZK (~13,200–35,200 USD). For example, the International School of Prague charges between 305,000 CZK (~13,420 USD) for Early Childhood Foundations and 807,000 CZK (~35,510 USD) for Grade 12.
Many expats in the Czech Republic opt to enroll their children in international schools due to the familiar language of instruction and the ease of transitioning back to their home country’s education system.
Cost of Higher Education in the Czech Republic
By law, higher education at public and state institutions in the Czech Republic is free for students of all nationalities, but most courses are taught in Czech. International or English-taught programs are still relatively affordable, with tuition fees ranging from 0 to 22,350 USD per year.
For example, a bachelor’s degree in Economics and Management at Mendel University in Brno costs around EUR 2,550 (~USD 2,884) per year. For specific program fees, visit the official portal.
The Cost of Healthcare in the Czech Republic
The Czech Republic’s healthcare system combines universal public insurance with growing private sector options, offering residents and expats access to high-quality care at relatively low costs compared to many Western European countries.
Still, if you’re coming from the United States, you’ll be surprised to find that the cost of living in Europe, especially healthcare, is much cheaper than back home.
Structure of the Czech Healthcare System
The Czech healthcare system operates under a compulsory Social Health Insurance (SHI), funded by employer-employee contributions and state subsidies for vulnerable groups. Around 85% of the population uses public insurance, while private options cater to expats and those seeking faster service.
While public insurance covers most treatments, having private healthcare can complement this system through co-payments for prescriptions, dental procedures, and specialist services. Private health insurance also offers shorter wait times and more flexibility.
Cost of General Doctor Consultations in the Czech Republic
Public insurance holders pay minimal fees for general practitioner (GP) visits. A 15-minute focused examination costs 300 CZK (13 USD), while a 30-minute comprehensive consultation averages 600 CZK (26 USD) for patients covered by public insurers like VZP or OZP.
Foreigners covered by private Czech health insurance can expect to pay slightly higher fees, with a general medical consultation typically costing between 1,000 to 1,500 CZK (~44 to 66 USD).
Uninsured patients or those using private clinics will face higher rates, with GP visits ranging from 500 CZK (23 USD) to 2,500 CZK (115 USD).
Cost of Specialist Consultations in the Czech Republic
Specialist fees are subsidized if you are protected by public insurance, with co-payments averaging 800–1,500 CZK (~37 to 69 USD). A psychosomatic consultation at a private clinic costs 2,500 CZK (~115 USD), while a second opinion from a specialist ranges from 2,500 to 4,900 CZK (~115 to 225 USD).
Cost of Health Checkups and Diagnostic Tests in the Czech Republic
Preventive care is the trend in 2025, with many public insurers subsidizing health screenings. For example, VZP offers 3,000 CZK (138 USD) for cancer prevention and vaccinations, while OZP reimburses 50% of children’s sports memberships (up to 1,000 CZK) (46 USD) to promote active lifestyles.
Routine checkups like basic physical exams cost around 1,500 CZK (69 USD) for foreigners under private insurance. For a more comprehensive preventive examination, such as an ECG, laboratory tests, medical evaluation, and a report including recommendations, it’ll cost 4,900 CZK (225 USD) for a full package.
Cost of Inpatient Rooms in the Czech Republic
Public hospitals in the Czech Republic offer highly affordable inpatient care—typically 60 CZK (~2.75 USD) per day—for insured patients and those with a European Health Insurance Card. However, this usually means staying in a shared ward with other patients.
If you prefer more privacy, you can upgrade to a private room for around 1,000 CZK (~46 USD) per night at a public hospital.
Cost of Common Surgeries in the Czech Republic
For expats living in the Czech Republic, the cost of common surgeries such as cataract surgery and knee replacement depends on whether the procedure is performed in a public or private facility and whether it is covered by the public health insurance.
For example, cataract surgery is generally covered by public health insurance, so expats with valid insurance through employment or long-term residency pay little out-of-pocket for standard procedures.
For self-paying expats, private clinics in Prague offer cataract surgery starting from around 24,700–49,400 CZK (~1,135–2,265 USD) per eye for monofocal lenses and up to 106,600 CZK (~4,900 USD) for both eyes with premium trifocal toric lenses.
Knee replacement surgery, another common procedure, costs 57,500–172,500 CZK (~2,645–7,930 USD) per knee at a private hospital. Many people are flying here to get their major surgeries done because it is still considered cheaper than in most Western European countries, like the UK.
Cost of Medication in the Czech Republic
The average cost of medication in the Czech Republic is relatively low compared to many Western countries, thanks to strict price regulation and a strong reimbursement system.
For insured patients, most prescription medications are either fully or largely covered by public health insurance, with co-payments typically ranging from 30 to 150 CZK (1.40 to 6.90 USD) per prescription.
About 60% of prescribed pharmaceuticals do not require a co-payment higher than a small user fee of about 25 CZK (~1.15 USD).
For medications not covered by insurance (or for uninsured individuals), prices are still regulated and generally affordable. For example, a course of antibiotics might cost 200–500 CZK, while chronic medications like insulin cost only around 190 CZK (8 USD) per vial.
Cost of Dental Care in the Czech Republic
Dental care costs in the Czech Republic vary depending on whether you use public insurance, private clinics, or premium dental services. Below is a summary of average prices for common dental procedures.
| Procedure | Price Range (Private, Prague) |
| Initial Examination | 1,300 CZK (~59 USD) |
| Dental Hygiene (Cleaning) | 1,800 CZK (~82 USD) |
| Composite Filling | 2,200–4,480 CZK (~101–206 USD) |
| Ceramic Crown | 13,200–15,500 CZK (~607–713 USD) |
| Root Canal Treatment | 7,200–12,700 CZK (~331–584 USD) |
| Tooth Extraction | From 1,100 CZK (~50 USD) |
| Dental Implant | 13,000–17,500 CZK (~598–805 USD) |
| Teeth Whitening | 7,600–9,600 CZK (~349–441 USD) |
| Braces | 30,000–100,000 CZK (~1,380–4,600 USD) |
Cost of Accident Treatments in the Czech Republic
For expats staying in the Czech Republic for more than 90 days or applying for a long-term visa or residence permit, it’s mandatory to have travel medical insurance that covers comprehensive medical care. This can be arranged through any insurance company authorized to operate in the Czech Republic.
If you’re covered by basic foreigner health insurance, which typically includes necessary and urgent treatment for accidents, coverage usually ranges from 1 to 10 million CZK (~46,000 to 460,000 USD) and often includes repatriation and transportation of mortal remains.
Without insurance, emergency care can become costly, up to tens of thousands of CZK if you need hospitalization and major surgeries. It’s best advised to secure an international health insurance plan for the whole duration of your stay in the Czech Republic.
Expat-friendly Hospitals in the Czech Republic
Here’s a list of renowned hospitals in the Czech Republic that are generally considered the most expatriate-friendly.
1. Na Homolce Hospital
Located in Prague, Na Homolce Hospital is a multidisciplinary medical center specializing in cardiovascular and neurological diseases. It is equipped with advanced technology and holds a JCI accreditation, making it a top choice for expatriates looking for specialized treatment in Czechia.
2. Motol University Hospital
Also based in Prague, Motol University Hospital is one of the largest healthcare facilities in the Czech Republic. It features a dedicated department for foreigners and English-speaking patients, offering specialized care including emergency services.
The hospital accepts patients without Czech health insurance, making it an ideal choice for expatriates.
3. University Hospital Brno
University Hospital Brno is the second-largest hospital in the Czech Republic, and its doctors can boast impressive records, such as being the first to treat benign prostate cancer with steam. It offers English-speaking medical staff, although the availability is less extensive compared to Prague.
Find the Right Coverage in the Czech Republic with Pacific Prime
Navigating health insurance as an expat in the Czech Republic can be complex, but Pacific Prime makes it simple. If you need comprehensive international coverage, our expert advisors help you compare top global insurers to find the perfect fit for your needs and budget.
With over 25 years of experience, we guide you through plan options, claims, and renewals to make sure that you get the best protection and peace of mind while living abroad. Start your journey with Pacific Prime today and secure the right health insurance coverage in Czechia.
Get in touch with our experts now for a free, no-obligation plan comparison!
If life in the Czech Republic isn’t quite what you’re looking for, check out our guides on the cost of living in Denmark and the cost of living in Estonia to help you choose your next destination.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Americans need a visa to live in the Czech Republic?
Americans do not need a visa to visit or stay in the Czech Republic for up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism or short visits. However, if an American plans to live, work, study, or stay longer than 90 days, they must apply for a long-term visa or residence permit before arrival.
Do EU citizens need a visa to live in the Czech Republic?
EU citizens can live and work in the Czech Republic without a residence permit. If they want to become a citizen, they can apply for a 10-year permanent residence permit after 5 years of continuous residence in the country, or after 2 years if they’ve spent at least 1 year as a close family member of an EU or Czech citizen with permanent residency.
What’s the cost of living for expats in the Czech Republic?
Compared to Western Europe, the Czech Republic is relatively affordable. Monthly expenses vary, but in cities like Prague, expect to spend around 30,000-40,000 CZK (~1,400-1,850 USD) for rent, utilities, food, and transportation.
With his keen interest in journalism, especially in the healthcare and wellness field, Tawan joins Pacific Prime with the goal of creating content that simplifies health insurance solutions, helping people make informed choices and choose the best options for their needs. Tawan firmly believes that words have power that can shape the world for the better.
In his free time, Tawan loves to pick up his Nintendo Switch and wield his Master Sword in Hyrule’s dungeons. He is also an avid sci-fi books/shows enjoyer. You can spot him hanging around bookstores and game shops all day long!
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