Cost Comparison 2025

PraguevsBrussels

Czech Republic
Belgium

Overall

💰

+30.9%

Prague is 30.9%more expensive

Rent

🏠

-11.1%

Housing is 11.1% lower

Dining

🍽️

+66.7%

Restaurants 66.7% pricier

Groceries

🛒

+40.0%

Food shopping 40.0% more

Comparing the cost of living between Prague, Czech Republic and Brussels, Belgium reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Prague is more expensive than Brussels by approximately 30.9%. This comparison covers essential living expenses including housing, food, transportation, and utilities, providing you with a complete picture of what to expect financially in each city.

Key Cost Differences

Housing costs in Prague are higher than in Brussels by 13%. A one-bedroom apartment in Prague's city center costs around CZK 20,000, while the same in Brussels is approximately €1,200.

Dining out in Prague offers significant savings compared to Brussels. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs CZK 150 in Prague versus €16 in Brussels.

Public transportation in Prague is more expensive, with monthly passes at CZK 550 compared to €53 in Brussels.

Purchasing power in Brussels is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Prague.

Grocery shopping in Prague is more affordable by approximately 29%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show lower prices across the board.

Monthly Budget Breakdown

When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Prague can expect to spend approximately CZK 9,098 per month (excluding rent), while in Brussels, the same lifestyle would cost around €544. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about CZK 31,843 monthly in Prague versus €1,905 in Brussels. These estimates include groceries, dining out, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, providing a realistic picture of day-to-day living costs in each city.

Detailed Cost Comparison

Item
Prague, Czech Republic
Brussels, Belgium

🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)

1BR City Center
CZK 20,000
€1,200
1BR Outside Center
CZK 15,000
€900
3BR City Center
CZK 35,000
€2,200

🍽️ Food & Dining

Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant
CZK 150
€16
Meal for 2, Mid-range Restaurant
CZK 900
€70
Cappuccino
CZK 60
€4
Domestic Beer (0.5L)
CZK 40
€5

🛒 Groceries

Milk (1L)
CZK 22
€1
Bread (500g)
CZK 25
€2
Eggs (12)
CZK 50
€3
Cheese (1kg)
CZK 180
€12

🚌 Transportation

One-way Ticket
CZK 32
€3
Monthly Pass
CZK 550
€53
Taxi Start
CZK 40
€3
Gasoline (1L)
CZK 35
€2

💡 Utilities & Internet

Basic Utilities (85m²)
CZK 4,500
€180
Internet (60 Mbps)
CZK 500
€45
Mobile Minute
CZK 3
€0

Tips for Moving Between Cities

For those considering a move from Prague to Brussels, the cost savings can be substantial, particularly in housing and daily expenses. However, it's important to factor in salary differences and job opportunities. Conversely, moving from Brussels to Prague requires careful financial planning. Consider negotiating salary adjustments that reflect the higher cost of living, and research neighborhoods outside the city center for more affordable housing options while maintaining reasonable commute times.

Quality of Life Indices

Prague

Cost of Living Index55
Rent Index45
Purchasing Power Index70

Brussels

Cost of Living Index72
Rent Index40
Purchasing Power Index85

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Prague more expensive than Brussels?

Yes, Prague is approximately 30.9% more expensive than Brussels overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.

How much salary do I need in Prague compared to Brussels?

To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.3x of your Brussels salary when living in Prague. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Brussels, you'd need about $65,455 in Prague for a comparable lifestyle.

What are the biggest cost differences between Prague and Brussels?

The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 40%, which can significantly impact your entertainment budget. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.

Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?

Brussels offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Brussels provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Prague if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Brussels for better value.

What's a reasonable monthly budget for Prague vs Brussels?

In Prague, a single person needs approximately CZK 24,098 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about CZK 56,843. In Brussels, these figures are €1,444 for singles and €3,505 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.

The cost of living comparison between Prague and Brussels in 2025 shows significant differences across various expense categories. Whether you're planning a relocation for work, considering retirement options, or simply curious about living costs, understanding these differences is crucial for making informed financial decisions.

Need to calculate salary equivalence?

Find out how much you need to earn in Brussels to maintain your lifestyle from Prague

Calculate Salary Equivalence

Last updated: 2025-01-15 • Data sourced from multiple providers