Updated: 20 Dec 2025 · Read time: 7–9 min · For: relocations, students, remote workers and families
Prague is one of Europe’s best value capitals—if you rent smart. Housing is the biggest lever, and the market moves fast. A realistic monthly budget per person is €1,100–€2,100 (rent included), depending on rent level and how often you eat out.
Currency note: Prague prices are usually in CZK.
Quick summary (decide in minutes)
- Rent (incl. utilities, typical expat market): room €410–€660 · studio €700–€905 · 1-bed €1,030–€1,235
- Transport (city pass): 30-day €23 · yearly €150
- Groceries/month: €250–€450 per person (home-cooking heavy)
- Internet: €16–€29/month (400–700 CZK)
- Savings shortcut: pick a flat with one direct metro/tram line to your daily spots (don’t optimise for “tourist centre”)
Housing: ranges and where it pays off
Typical ranges (often including utilities)
- Room in a shared flat: €410–€660/mo
- Studio: €700–€905/mo
- 1-bed (2+kk): €1,030–€1,235/mo
Quick area map
- Premium (pricey, central): Old Town / Malá Strana, Vinohrady prime, parts of Karlín
- Best value (price/connection): Smíchov edges, Holešovice, parts of Žižkov, outer Vinohrady
- Family/quiet: Dejvice / Bubeneč edges, parts of Prague 4/6/10 with good metro links
- Modern/expat-friendly: Karlín, Holešovice, Anděl area (Smíchov)
Rental checklist (Prague specifics)
- Have a complete “application pack” ready (ID, income proof, references).
- Confirm what’s included in “rent”: utilities vs bills (many advertised ranges bundle them).
- Clarify contract length, notice, and whether the landlord is OK with registration if you need it.
- Watch the agency commission (common in the market).
- If the listing looks “cheap”, verify commute: in Prague, one direct line is worth paying for.
Transport: metro + tram sweet spot
- Prague’s network is simple: Metro A/B/C + trams.
- 30-day pass is 550 CZK (~€23); annual is 3,650 CZK (~€150).
- In 2026, long-term passes in Prague remain unchanged (ticket prices can move; check current fares).
“Time vs money” strategy
- Optimise for direct access to your line (A/B/C) rather than “closest to the centre”.
- A 10–15 minute ride on the metro often beats paying a premium for “walkable to Old Town”.
Food: realistic day-to-day
- Groceries (1 person): €250–€450/month (varies heavily by habits)
- Lunch menu / quick bite: usually “set menus” are the best value (common expat budgeting pattern)
- For broader price ranges by category, see city benchmarks (restaurants, staples, etc.).
Utilities & connectivity
- Internet: €16–€29/month (400–700 CZK)
- If utilities aren’t bundled, ask for recent bills; winter heating cost depends on the building.
Monthly budget examples (rent included)
| Profile | Rent | Groceries + bills + transport | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shared room | €550 | €350–€550 | €900–€1,100 |
| Studio | €800 | €400–€650 | €1,200–€1,450 |
| 1-bed (2+kk) | €1,150 | €450–€750 | €1,600–€1,900 |
Note: upfront costs are a bigger shock than monthly costs—see below.
Hidden costs you won’t see in listings
- Move-in cash buffer: often 3–4 months of rent (first month + deposit + agent commission).
- Furnishing/setup (if not fully equipped)
- Utility settlement if billed separately
Practical tips (save without losing quality)
- Pick the apartment by connection first, not by postcard views.
- Treat “all-in rent” as a different product than “rent + utilities”.
- If budget is tight, start with a flat-share for 3–6 months to learn the city.
- Lock down transport value: the monthly pass is cheap, use it aggressively.
FAQ
How much to live alone in Prague? Usually €1,200–€1,900/month depending on rent and lifestyle.
Best areas for value? Žižkov/Holešovice/Smíchov edges with direct metro/tram access.
Do I need a car? Rarely; public transport + walking is strong.
When to look for rentals? Year-round; good listings go fast—apply with documents ready.
Suggested links: See Prague · Compare cities · Prague vs Vienna