New Study Reveals the Czech Republic’s Best and Worst Places to Live

The best quality of life in the Czech Republic is currently found in Turnov and its surroundings (Liberec Region), thanks to its well-developed infrastructure, excellent transport accessibility, and diverse leisure options.

This ranking comes from the 2025 Index of Prosperity of Regions, a study conducted by analysts from Česká spořitelna and the Europe in Data platform.

The research assessed 206 microregions—205 municipalities with extended powers and Prague—based on 37 key indicators, covering economic stability, healthcare availability, education, public services, and transport infrastructure.

Data-Driven Results Reveal Regional Disparities

The study utilized data from the Czech Statistical Office, Eurostat, OECD, WHO, the World Bank, and the UN.

“The results show that while some regions maintain a stable and prosperous environment, others struggle with high unemployment, population decline, and financial instability. One key factor is housing affordability, which varies significantly. For instance, buying an apartment in Prague requires 17 annual salaries, while in Ostrava, it takes only seven. Regional comparisons provide a more accurate picture than national averages, which often mask local disparities,” the study authors noted.

Turnov: A Model of a Thriving Microregion

Turnov topped the ranking due to its strong economy, well-developed public services, and high quality of life.

Located in the “Czech Paradise” nature reserve, it benefits from a balanced mix of urban convenience and natural beauty. The city offers a wide range of cultural and sports facilities and boasts a highly efficient transport network.

At the bottom of the ranking are microregions in the Ústec Region, particularly Podbořany and Bílina, where high unemployment, low education levels, and social isolation significantly reduce quality of life.

Prague: An Economic Powerhouse with Challenges

Although Prague dominates economically, it failed to reach the top ten due to limited access to primary education (a shortage of kindergarten and school places) and a higher crime rate. The capital ranked 23rd out of 206 microregions.

Among the larger administrative regions, Prague took first place, followed by Zlín Region and Vysočina. At the bottom were Moravian-Silesian, Karlovy Vary, and Ústec Regions.

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