Why More and More Foreigners Are Leaving Prague for Smaller Czech Cities — and How This Is Changing the Housing Market in 2026
Just a few years ago, most foreigners moving to the Czech Republic considered only Prague. It offered the largest number of job opportunities, higher salaries, and an easier way to find a Russian-speaking environment.
But in 2026, the situation is gradually changing. Due to rising rents, apartment shortages, and the overcrowding of the capital, more and more people are starting to move to smaller Czech cities.
This is especially noticeable among foreigners who work remotely or are looking for a calmer and cheaper lifestyle.
Why Living in Prague Has Become Much More Expensive
Over the past few years, housing rent in Prague has increased significantly.
According to the real estate market, good apartments in the capital are often rented out literally within a few hours after being listed.
Source: https://www.sreality.cz/ru/search/to-rent/apartments/praha
The average rent for a 2+kk apartment in Prague already exceeds 22,000 CZK per month, and prices in central districts continue to rise.
Source: https://klik-home.cz/ru/blog/ceny-bytu-v-praze-2026
In addition, renters face:
- high security deposits;
- agency commissions;
- strong competition for housing;
- a shortage of affordable apartments.
Why Foreigners Are Increasingly Choosing Smaller Cities
Against the background of rising prices, many people have started moving to Brno, Plzeň, Olomouc, Ostrava, and smaller cities near Prague.
The main reason is the cost of living.
- rent is significantly cheaper;
- there is less competition for apartments;
- the pace of life is calmer;
- there is less traffic and stress;
- parking and housing are more affordable.
According to analysts, rent in some regions of the Czech Republic remains significantly lower than in Prague.
How the Housing Market in the Czech Republic Is Changing
Despite partial stabilization of rent prices in some districts, the overall housing market in the Czech Republic remains tense.
Experts predict further growth in real estate and rental prices throughout 2026.
Source: https://ruski.radio.cz/eksperty-v-2026-godu-v-chehii-prodolzhitsya-rosta-cen-zhilya-8872940
Analysts also point to:
- a shortage of new housing;
- growing demand from foreigners;
- pressure on rental prices in large cities;
- a gradual outflow of some renters from Prague.
Source: https://realting.com/ru/news/prague-housing-market-2026
What Problems Foreigners Face When Relocating
Even after choosing a city, many people encounter the same problems:
- listings with fake photos;
- advance payments before apartment viewings;
- hidden commissions;
- refusals to rent housing to foreigners;
- lack of official contracts.
People should be especially careful with extremely cheap apartments in Prague — in many cases, they are either scams or problematic housing.
Why Work and Housing in the Czech Republic Are Closely Connected
For most foreigners, finding housing directly depends on their employer.
Many companies:
- provide dormitories;
- help find apartments;
- offer temporary accommodation;
- assist with registration after relocation.
That is why foreigners increasingly prefer to first find official employment and only then make a final decision about which city to live in.
How praga.work Helps During Relocation
On praga.work, employers often immediately specify:
- housing availability;
- living conditions;
- the city and district of work;
- relocation assistance;
- direct contact without intermediaries.
This helps people understand real conditions in advance and avoid many problems after relocating to the Czech Republic.
Conclusion
In 2026, life in Prague remains attractive, but it is becoming increasingly expensive for foreigners.
That is why more and more people are considering smaller Czech cities, where housing is more affordable, life is calmer, and daily expenses are lower.