What Is the Safest, Most Affordable Country To Live In?

Learn more about the safety level and affordability of Czechia. pictured: a view of Prague in the Czech Republic near the Charles Bridge during sunset
Learn more about the safety level and affordability of Czechia. pictured: a view of Prague in the Czech Republic near the Charles Bridge during sunset

The Czech Republic is a country in central Europe that is bordered by Germany, Poland, Austria and Slovakia. Although the country is small, there is plenty to enjoy there. The land-locked country has gained major tourism attention for its breathtaking architecture, scenic beauty and rich culture. There are even countless parks and walking trails that provide peak views of the surrounding forests and hills. But architecture is one of the most popular features of the country since there are many intriguing architectural styles that visitors and residents can observe. Including, but not limited to, Gothic, Renaissance, Cubism, Romanesque and Art-Nouveau architectural influences.

Also, the Czech Republic has proven to be a globally influential destination due to its cuisine, art and growing diversity. In fact, its capital Prague is one of the most visited European capitals. Prague has ample historical sites and cultural immersion opportunities. But as of late, the Czech Republic has been revered most for its safety and affordability. With the increasing popularity of expat living and Black travelers prioritizing safety and comfort, Czechia comes out on top. Before booking a flight or plotting a move abroad, check out why the Czech Republic is the safest and most affordable country to live in.

Why Is the Czech Republic the Safest, Most Affordable Country To Live In?

Learn more about why the Czech Republic is the safest and most affordable country. 
pictured: the bank of a city in Czech Republic on a cloudy day
Learn more about why the Czech Republic is the safest and most affordable country. pictured: the bank of a city in Czech Republic on a cloudy day

People love living in the Czech Republic because of its convenience. Due to its location in the heart of Europe, Czechia is an easy place to travel from. Travelers and residents can get to surrounding countries with ease. Traveling across Europe from this country is a common practice due to its strategic location. But the resources and high quality of life available to people in Czechia makes it the ultimate destination to live in.

There is not a particularly hard process to go through for people to move to the Czech Republic. For one, the country has something that not many countries have. Czechia offers visas that are based on the time period that people want to reside in the country. So there is some flexibility with visas and the process is not extraneous. And because the country is a popular place to live, travelers do not often have trouble finding accommodations or work. Travelers are also attracted to Czechia because there is also a huge expat community. This is especially true in cities like Prague, Ostrava and Brno. New residents that come from different global locations commonly find connection with others on similar journeys in those cities.

Tourism in the Czech Republic

Tourists and locals feel it is safe to explore the top attractions in the country. Public areas, especially those frequented by visitors, are monitored. So travelers that move to Czechia either temporarily or permanently should not worry about maneuvering the country.

Some of the most popular places to visit while living in the country include the Charles Bridge, Old Town Square and Sumava National Park. And those are just some of the free attractions. For a small fee (ranging from $8-$15) the Prague Castle, Lobkowicz Palace and Klementinum can be explored by travelers. So, relatively, the Czech Republic even has inexpensive tourism.

The Czech Republic has a short summer, which many travelers take advantage of. While this period, between June and August, may be the ideal time to partake in outdoor activities, it may not be the best time to move to the Czech Republic. Crowds fill the streets and it is hot and sunny. Locals commonly avoid going to tourist- heavy areas on weekends during this time if they prefer to avoid large swarms of tourists.

Safety in Czechia

The Czech Republic has an excellent ranking in the Global Peace Index (GPI). The GPI is the world’s leading measurement of peace, so this is a significant finding. The Institute for Economics and Peace assesses countries based on societal safety and security, extent of ongoing domestic and international conflict and the degree of militarization. At number 12 (out of 163 countries) in the 2023 ranking, Czech Republic is certainly one of the safest countries. The crime rate is low, according to the U.S. Department of State. The safety travel advisory on the U.S. Department of State’s website categorizes Czechia as a level one destination. This means that travelers can exercise normal precautions. As the website describes, there is little crime in the country other than petty crime.

Czechia is also often referred to as a very clean place. The cleanliness of the country makes it a pleasant place to live and explore for visitors and locals alike. For future residents of the country, there are resources that provide detailed reports and assessments of the country’s health safety. Organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are regularly updated and accurate. The organization’s websites provide travel health notices, country specific health information and ways that travelers can secure their personal health.

So, How Affordable Is the Czech Republic?

In comparison to the rest of Europe, people living in the Czech Republic are doing quite well in terms of cost of living. Even in comparison to the United States, the country has a 34.7% lower cost of living. The country is a budget-friendly destination with great lodging options and public transportation. For example, between $350 – $750 is the average monthly cost of living. This estimate includes accommodation, public transportation and food. Of course, at the end of the day the total cost of life in Czechia depends on a traveler’s travel preferences and style. For example, families will need more money to live comfortably in the country than a solo traveler. And travelers that prefer luxury may opt for the highest end accommodations and need a roomier budget to feel comfortable. But all in all, living in the Czech Republic is a relatively affordable experience.