Are you considering moving to Central Europe and choosing between Prague and Vienna? Both cities boast rich history, stunning architecture, and a high quality of life. But when it comes to affordability, which one is the better option in 2025?
Whether you’re an expat, digital nomad, investor, or just someone dreaming of a fresh start, understanding the cost of living in Prague vs. Vienna is essential. Let’s break down the expenses - from rent and transportation to food, taxes, and entertainment - so you can decide where your money stretches further.
The cost of living data used in this article is sourced from Numbeo.com to ensure accuracy and reliability.
1. Housing Costs in Prague vs. Vienna: Where Is Rent and Property Cheaper in 2025?
The biggest expense for most people is housing. Whether you're renting or buying property in Prague or Vienna, the cost of real estate differs significantly.
Renting an Apartment in Prague vs. Vienna
If you’re planning to rent in Prague, you’ll be pleased to know that it's cheaper than Vienna.
🔹 Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Prague city center: €1,020🔹 Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Vienna city center: €1,030
🔹 Outside city center (Prague): €770🔹 Outside city center (Vienna): €750
💡 Tip: If you want to live in Vienna on a budget, consider districts Favoriten (District 10) or Floridsdorf (District 21) where rental prices are lower. In Prague, affordable areas include Praha 4, 5, and 9.
Buying Property: Is It Cheaper in Prague or Vienna?
If you’re thinking of buying a house in Prague or Vienna, here are the latest property prices:
🔹 Price per m² in Prague city center: €7,250🔹 Price per m² in Vienna city center: €9,660
🔹 Price per m² outside city center (Prague): €4,990🔹 Price per m² outside city center (Vienna): €5,990
🏆 Winner for affordability: Prague
With lower rent and property prices, Prague is more affordable than Vienna in terms of housing.
2. Food & Dining Costs: Is Prague or Vienna More Budget-Friendly in 2025?
Whether you love dining out or cooking at home, food expenses matter. So, how does the cost of groceries and restaurants compare?
Grocery Prices in Prague vs. Vienna
🔹 1 liter of milk: €1.00 (Prague) | €1.50 (Vienna)🔹 Loaf of bread: €1.25 (Prague) | €2.50 (Vienna)🔹 1 kg of chicken: €7.80 (Prague) | €13.10 (Vienna)🔹 1 kg of apples: €1.70 (Prague) | €2.55 (Vienna)
💡 On average, groceries in Vienna are 15-25% more expensive than in Prague.
Restaurant Prices: Eating Out in Prague vs. Vienna
🔹 Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: €8.80 (Prague) | €15.00 (Vienna)🔹 Three-course meal for two: €39.95 (Prague) | €73.50 (Vienna)🔹 Coffee (Cappuccino): €2.95 (Prague) | €4.20 (Vienna)
🏆 Winner for affordability: PragueDining out and groceries are significantly cheaper in Prague than in Vienna.
3. Transportation Costs in Prague vs. Vienna: Which City Offers More Affordable Public Transit?
Public Transport in Prague vs. Vienna
Both cities have efficient public transport systems, but costs differ:
🔹 Monthly public transport pass: €22.00 (Prague) | €50.00 (Vienna)🔹 Single ticket: €1.20 (Prague) | €2.40 (Vienna)🔹 Taxi (per km): €1.40 (Prague) | €2.00 (Vienna)
💡 Vienna’s transport is more expensive, but it’s ranked as one of the best in Europe in terms of reliability and coverage.
🏆 Winner for affordability: Prague
4. Salaries in Prague vs. Vienna: Where Can You Earn More in 2025?
While Vienna is more expensive, it also offers higher average salaries. Here’s how earnings compare:
🔹 Average monthly net salary in Vienna (after tax): €2,530
🔹 Average monthly net salary in Prague (after tax): €1,740
💡 If you're moving for work, Vienna might be the better option as salaries compensate for the higher cost of living.
🏆 Winner for earnings: Vienna
Final Verdict: Prague or Vienna – Where Is It Cheaper to Live?
✅ If you want lower living costs: Prague
✅ If you want higher salaries: Vienna
✅ If you want cheaper housing & food: Prague
✅ If you prioritise public transport & job opportunities: Vienna
💡 Bottom line? If affordability is your priority, Prague is the better choice. But if you’re looking for higher salaries and world-class public services, Vienna wins.
📊 For more country comparisons and in-depth analysis, visit our "Countries" section and explore the top real estate markets in 2025.
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