Moving to the Czech Republic: everything you need to know about life in the country

Moving to another country is always a combination of new opportunities, challenges and important decisions. The Czech Republic has been one of the most popular areas of life, study and work among Ukrainians for many years due to its stable economy, high quality of life and close mentality. In this article, we have collected all the most important things to know before moving to the Czech Republic: from the peculiarities of everyday life and medicine to work, education and adaptation to a new environment. February 04, 2026 AUTHOR: Kristina Kibukevich 0 12 min

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Kristina Kibukevich insta editor tripmydream

Advantages of living in the Czech Republic

• Central location in Europe. From here you can quickly and conveniently reach many European cities. The Czech Republic borders Germany, Austria, Slovakia and Poland.
• Temperate climate. Winters in the Czech Republic are not too cold, summers are warm, but not as hot as in southern countries.
• An affordable standard of living. If we compare the cost of goods and services with neighboring EU countries (Germany, France), the Czech Republic is much more affordable. Using its own currency, the Czech krona, keeps the cost of living at a lower level than in neighboring Eurozone countries.
• Low unemployment and GDP growth.
• Free higher education. Foreigners can also get the right to receive a bachelor’s or master’s degree for free. The only requirement is to know Czech well. Universities have preparatory courses that provide intensive training during the year of study (language proficiency at the B2 level).
• High level of medicine. The level of specialist training and the standard of organization of the healthcare system are highly appreciated. Cardiology, oncology, eye surgery, as well as famous balneological resorts (“baths”) are developed.
• Low crime rate. The country is a member of the EU and has a high level of security.
• Good job opportunities. In the Czech Republic, there is a growing demand for specialists in manufacturing, IT, medicine, and the service sector.
• Loyal attitude towards foreigners. A large Ukrainian and international community is concentrated here.

© depositphotos Photo author – IuliiaVerstaBO

Disadvantages of living in the Czech Republic

• The bureaucracy. Almost everyone who has had to deal with EU laws has encountered bureaucracy. The Czech Republic is no exception. During the collection of documents, you will have to go through several rounds of tests, be patient and accept the fact that no one predicts how long it will take for the official’s turn to reach you.
• Disadvantages of medicine. The level of medicine is high, but you can’t assess it if you don’t have insurance. In the Czech Republic, it is not customary to call an ambulance for an emergency (you need to see a doctor in person). Most medications, including antibiotics, can only be purchased with a doctor’s prescription.
• Lack of 24/7 life. This disadvantage is called the “Czech phenomenon.” The minimum number of stores operating around the clock. Most shops (except grocery stores) are closed on Sunday, and supermarkets close early. You can shop late at night only in isolated locations in Prague or Brno.
• The need for knowledge of the Czech language. Once this condition is met, it is quite difficult to integrate and find a good job.
• High competition in the housing market. The demand for rental housing in the Czech Republic significantly exceeds the supply, especially in Prague and other major cities. Therefore, the search for an apartment can take a long time, and landlords often choose between several candidates. It can be more difficult for foreigners without language skills or temporary status to get housing.
• Conservative mentality. Czechs are usually restrained in their emotions and are not subject to rapid rapprochement, which can create a feeling of closeness or coldness, especially at the beginning of life in the country. At the same time, such restraint is combined with punctuality, reliability and strict adherence to the rules.

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Demand for specialists and salaries

The Czech Republic is a country of opportunities for IT specialists, qualified doctors, designers and engineers. Representatives of rare professions specializing in car construction and heavy industry are especially needed.

The need for vacancies in the Czech Republic is related to the geographical location:

• Prague often requires good business consultants and IT specialists.
• There are chemists and engineers in Brno.
• There are construction workers and industrial workers in Pilsen.

The salary of employees varies depending on the field of activity and the region.

The national average (gross, taxes included) is about $1955 – $2070 USD.

In Prague and the capital region, the salary is the highest and starts from $2,300 – $2,760 USD.

In the northern regions and provinces, the lowest, from $1,380 USD.

The most stable in terms of salary growth are the medical, IT and administrative sectors.

In the Czech Republic, three main taxes are deducted from wages (approximately):

• Social insurance – 6.5%.
• Medical insurance – 4.5%.
• Income tax is 15%.

© depositphotos Photo by aleksandrberezko

The cost of living in the Czech Republic

Living in the Czech Republic for a family of two people will cost an average of $1,740 – $2,320+ USD per month.

It is also necessary to pay for compulsory insurance. For people without taxable income (for example, the unemployed) – about $116 – $139 USD, for self–employed people – $151+ USD.

If the family supports its own transportation, eats in restaurants and spends on entertainment, the monthly expenses can be twice as much.