Where is the best place to live in the Czech Republic? A recent study compares the quality of life across the country’s regions – with a winner: South Bohemia. The region stands out for its unspoilt nature, strong education system and diverse leisure opportunities.
The latest comparison of quality of life in the Czech regions shows that the top spot in 2025 goes to Jihočeský kraj (South Bohemia). Královéhradecký kraj (Hradec Králové Region) and Zlínský kraj (Zlín Region) follow in second and third place respectively.
The result is based on the 15th edition of the Místo pro život (Place to Live) study, which combines statistical data with a representative nationwide survey of citizens.
What makes South Bohemia so liveable
In the south of the Czech Republic, Jihočeský kraj offers particularly high quality of life, thanks to its well-preserved environment, strong educational provision and wide range of leisure options. Especially noteworthy are the favourable conditions in childcare and education: primary school classes tend to be smaller, and there is an above-average number of secondary schools and universities per capita.
Environmental factors also speak for themselves: a high proportion of green space in built-up areas, relatively low waste production per capita and one of the highest recycling rates in the country all contribute to the region’s natural quality of life. In addition, South Bohemia has the lowest population density in the Czech Republic.
When it comes to leisure, the region boasts the highest number of members in sports clubs affiliated with the Czech Sports Union, a rich calendar of cultural events, and an above-average number of libraries.
Room for improvement in social and healthcare services
Despite its many strengths, South Bohemia also faces challenges, particularly in healthcare and social services. The number of social care facilities is low compared to other regions, as is the density of doctors and the number of pharmacies. There is also room for improvement in the labour market: the gender pay gap in comparable roles is above average, while wages and unemployment figures are around the national average.
Martin Kuba, the hejtman (regional governor) of South Bohemia, sees the award as recognition of the people in the region: “I am convinced that we live in the most beautiful part of the Czech Republic. We take great care of our towns and villages, and people here pass on their homeland from generation to generation. I hope that young people will see their future here.”
Safety and healthcare in Královéhradecký kraj
The runner-up, Královéhradecký kraj, scores particularly well in terms of safety and healthcare. A notably low crime rate contributes to the overall wellbeing of its residents. Last year’s winner, Prague, slipped to seventh place this year.
Místo pro život: Regional rankings 2025
- (5.) Jihočeský kraj (South Bohemian Region)
- (3.) Královéhradecký kraj (Hradec Králové Region)
- (4.) Zlínský kraj (Zlín Region)
- (6.) Plzeňský kraj (Pilsen Region)
- (7.) Pardubický kraj (Pardubice Region)
- (8.) Kraj Vysočina (Vysočina Region / Highlands)
- (1.) Hlavní město Praha (Capital City of Prague)
- (11.) Olomoucký kraj (Olomouc Region)
- (2.) Jihomoravský kraj (South Moravian Region)
- (10.) Liberecký kraj (Liberec Region)
- (9.) Středočeský kraj (Central Bohemian Region)
- (12.) Moravskoslezský kraj (Moravian-Silesian Region)
- (14.) Karlovarský kraj (Karlovy Vary Region)
- (13.) Ústecký kraj (Ústí Region)
