Finding accommodation in Prague can be one of the most challenging parts of moving to the city. Demand is high, supply is limited, and prices have risen a lot over the past few years. While there is a wide range of options, from shared flats to family homes, the market moves quickly, and competition for well-located apartments is strong.
Why is the rent in Prague so high?
One of the main reasons prices are so high is the imbalance between supply and demand. Prague continues to attract expats, students, and professionals, but new housing hasn't kept up. Construction has been slow, and short-term rentals have reduced the number of apartments available for long-term tenants. As a result, rents are now close to those in Western Europe, even though salaries are still lower.
Short-term rentals like Airbnb have made this worse. Many apartments are used for tourists instead of long-term renters. This reduces the number of available homes and pushes prices higher.
Types of accommodation and rent prices in Prague
Many expats start with either a shared apartment or a small private flat. Flat sharing is very common in Prague, especially among students and young professionals, and it remains one of the most realistic options when you first arrive.
Renting your own apartment is possible, but smaller units like studios (1kk) or one-bedroom flats (2kk) are in high demand. Larger apartments and houses are easier to find outside the city center or in more residential districts, and are more popular with families or long-term residents.
Rent prices vary significantly depending on the location. Prague is by far the most expensive city in the country, and the closer you are to the center, the higher the cost. A room in a shared apartment can cost 10,000-18,000 CZK per month. Studios typically range from 18,000 to 25,000 CZK, while one-bedroom apartments often start around 22,000 CZK and can go well above 30,000 CZK in central areas.
Larger family apartments start at around 30,000 CZK, while houses in suburban areas start at around 40,000 CZK. These figures usually do not include utilities, which are listed separately as 鈥渟ervices鈥� or 鈥減oplatky鈥� and can add another 2,000 to 5,000 CZK per month. Before moving in, you will also be expected to pay a deposit (one to three months' rent) and, if you use an agency, a fee equivalent to one month's rent.
How to find accommodation in Prague
Most people start their search online when looking for a place to rent. Websites like Sreality or Bezrealitky are very popular, but listings are often in Czech. Some landlords prefer local tenants because of the language barrier. A common approach is to rent a temporary place first, then search for accommodation once you arrive in Prague. Short-term options like Airbnb or make this easier. You can also check Facebook groups like for apartment shares and rentals.
Another option is to use a real estate agency, which can simplify the process, particularly if you don't speak Czech. Agents handle communication, paperwork, and legal details, but they charge a fee, usually equal to one month's rent.
If you're already in Prague, ask people around you. Colleagues or classmates may know about available apartments or rooms. Students often find housing more easily through their university or student groups. It is also important to move quickly. If you see a place you like, try to set up a viewing right away. Apartments are often rented within a few days.
What to expect when signing a rental contract in Prague
Contracts are typically signed for one year, with the option to renew, and include details such as rent, utilities, deposit, and notice period. Notice periods are usually two to three months.
If you're on a budget, stay flexible. Many expats choose temporary accommodation (like Airbnb) when they first arrive and then search locally. That makes it easier to visit apartments in person and respond quickly.
You should also plan for upfront costs. Most landlords ask for a security deposit, usually equal to one or two months' rent. If you use an agent, you will pay a fee as well. Some landlords may also ask for a pet deposit if you're moving in with a dog or cat. This means you may need to pay several months of rent at the start, so it helps to have savings ready.
Good to know:
After you move in, you may need to register your address. This is called 鈥渉l谩拧en铆 pobytu鈥� in Czech. Non-EU nationals must always register their address, usually within a few days of arrival. EU citizens are not required to do this, but they can choose to register if they plan to stay longer than a few months. To do this, you will need a signed rental contract and, in some cases, a confirmation from your landlord. Not all landlords agree to provide this, so it is worth checking before you sign the lease.
Best neighborhoods in Prague
Choosing the right neighborhood makes a big difference, both in terms of cost and quality of life. Some areas are very popular with expats because of the location and atmosphere.
Vinohrady
Vinohrady is one of the most popular neighborhoods in Prague. It's centrally located but quieter than the Old Town, with tree-lined streets, caf茅s, restaurants, and parks. It also has a strong expat presence, so it's easier to settle in. It's also expensive because of that.
碍补谤濒铆苍
碍补谤濒铆苍, in Prague 8, has become one of the city's most modern and fast-developing areas. It attracts young professionals thanks to its office buildings, coworking spaces, and easy access to the city center. Nearby Hole拧ovice, in Prague 7, has a more creative and relaxed feel. It's known for its caf茅s, galleries, and startup environment, and it's slightly more affordable than Vinohrady.
沤颈啪办辞惫
沤颈啪办辞惫, part of Prague 3, used to be a working-class district, but it's now known for its lively, student-friendly environment and lower rental prices. Parks like Riegrovy Sady and Paruk谩艡ka make it especially attractive for people who want a mix of city life and outdoor space.
Prague 4
If you are looking for a quieter or more affordable flat to rent, districts away from the center are a better choice. Prague 4, for example, is one of the greener parts of the city, with areas like Kr膷 or Bran铆k offering access to nature while still being connected by metro. Prague 5, 7, and 8 offer a balance between accessibility and price, with good transport links, shops, and restaurants. Prague 9 and 10 are more residential and generally cheaper, but commuting times to the center are longer.
Some expats, especially families, choose to live just outside Prague in areas like Pr暖honice or 艠铆膷any. These locations offer more space, access to international schools, and a quieter environment, but commuting into the city can be time-consuming.
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