5 TOP locations for housing in the Czech Republic
There is no housing like housing. Which locations are currently the most desirable in the Czech Republic? The guide is the number of applicants and the price of real estate in a given location. The latter reflects the quality and exclusivity of the location. These are the top 5 locations that stand out above the rest.

Table of Contents
- Karlín, Letná (Prague 7, 8) – A Paradise for the Young
- Hanspaulka, Ořechovka (Prague 6) – Living with a First Republic Charm
- Malá Strana, Old Town (Prague 1) – The Soul of Old Prague
- Říčany and the Surroundings of Prague – Ideal for Families with Children
- Masarykova Quarter (Brno) – Housing Not Only for Fans of Functionalism
- What Makes a Location Desirable?
Karlín, Letná (Prague 7, 8) – A Paradise for the Young
Every cloud has a silver lining – a saying that could serve as the motto for Prague’s Karlín district. Before the floods, the neighborhood wasn’t anything special; it was dominated by old apartment buildings and the decaying Invalidovna. But then the floods came, and Karlín was given a new chance. Today, you'll find a number of new office buildings and modern residential complexes here, attracting many young people. The area has come alive, with new cafés and restaurants popping up.
Across the river, Karlín is rivaled by Holešovice and Letná. Letná boasts historic buildings with classic front gardens, good public transport, and a wide range of services and restaurants. One of the key attractions is the proximity to Prague’s largest park – Stromovka.
Hanspaulka, Ořechovka (Prague 6) – Living with a First Republic Charm
Owning a villa in Hanspaulka or Ořechovka – a dream for many, not just during the First Republic era, but even today. This area stands out for its family homes and villas with gardens. Both neighborhoods are located in Prague 6, on opposite sides of Dejvice. These locations offer quiet streets, prestigious addresses, and easy parking. The value of the villas today is also influenced by their historical significance and architectural quality. You’ll find homes designed by renowned architects like Pavel Janák, Jaroslav Vondrák, Ladislav Žák, and Adolf Loos. The more affordable villas start at around 30 million CZK (approx. $1.3 million), while larger or renovated ones can go for up to 100 million CZK (approx. $4.3 million).
Malá Strana, Old Town (Prague 1) – The Soul of Old Prague
Malá Strana, Old Town, Josefov – while crowds of tourists outside your window may not be for everyone, the historic buildings, narrow alleys, and high-ceilinged apartments are incredibly appealing. Even though these old homes may not always provide modern living comforts, the unique charm (genius loci) of the Old Town continues to attract many.
Aside from tourist crowds, drawbacks also include a lack of parking and fewer stores for everyday shopping. Still, you can try living here by renting – with prices starting at 20,000 CZK (approx. $850).
Říčany and the Surroundings of Prague – Ideal for Families with Children
Říčany has been ranked the best place to live in the Czech Republic for several years in a row. Why? Because it's close to Prague – residents have access to the capital’s services thanks to excellent transportation options (both car and public transport), while enjoying peaceful small-town living.
Residents of places like Jesenice, Hostivice, Roztoky, or Úvaly can thus enjoy a combination of excellent services and proximity to nature.
Masarykova Quarter (Brno) – Housing Not Only for Fans of Functionalism
What Ořechovka is to Prague, Masarykova Quarter is to Brno. It is part of the central Brno-střed district. This residential villa area developed gradually from the end of the 19th century to the 1970s and is notable for its Art Nouveau and especially functionalist architecture. Its biggest building boom came after World War I, and it was named in honor of the first Czechoslovak president, Tomáš G. Masaryk.
Even today, it is synonymous with quality housing near the Kraví Hora and Wilson Forest parks. Apartments here are, of course, more affordable than in Prague – you can buy a 3-room apartment (3+kk) for around 6 million CZK (approx. $255,000). Price depends on whether the property has been renovated and whether it's in a basement apartment building or a villa with a garden.
What Makes a Location Desirable?
It’s always a combination of several factors. Typically:
- Quality real estate
- Excellent transportation access (public and private)
- Local amenities (kindergartens, schools, healthcare, cultural and sports facilities)
- Nearby commercial areas (shops, hair salons, restaurants, other services
- Safety of the area
- Green spaces for relaxation and leisure (parks, ponds, bike paths)