THE RISE OF MID-TERM RENTALS IN PRAGUE: A NEW CHAPTER IN FLEXIBLE LIVING

In today’s fast-paced, especially in Prague, the traditional idea of renting a home for a year or more no longer suits everyone. The rise of remote work, project-based contracts, international study programs, and business travel has created a new kind of tenant—one who needs flexibility, quality, and comfort without the burden of long-term commitments. Enter mid-term rentals: a housing solution that’s rapidly gaining popularity across Europe and beyond.

These rentals, typically ranging from 30 days to 12 months, are ideal for professionals, freelancers, and students who move from city to city for work or study. They offer more than just a place to sleep—they provide a livable, work-friendly environment that feels like home. While many major cities like Paris, Berlin, and Amsterdam already offer a wide range of mid-term housing options, Prague is just beginning to explore the potential of this dynamic market.

What Is a Mid-Term Rental?

Mid-term rentals refer to lease agreements that typically range from 30 days to 12 months. They are ideal for individuals who are relocating temporarily for work, studying abroad, or exploring a new city while working remotely. These rentals usually come fully furnished and include essential amenities like high-speed internet, kitchen appliances, and even dedicated workspaces.

Unlike short-term vacation rentals, which cater primarily to tourists, or long-term leases that require a 12-month commitment or more, mid-term rentals fill the gap in between—offering flexibility without sacrificing comfort or stability.

The Situation in Prague

While many European cities have adapted to this growing trend, Prague’s mid-term rental market remains relatively underdeveloped. In the Czech capital, housing options are still largely split between short-term stays—often found on platforms like Airbnb—and long-term contracts favored by local landlords. This leaves mid-term renters with limited options.

For international tenants arriving in Prague for a few months—whether for internships, freelance projects, or corporate assignments—finding quality mid-term housing is often a struggle. Many are forced to choose between costly hotels, inconvenient sublets, or tourist-heavy apartments that lack the quiet, home-like feel they’re looking for.

Why Airbnb Isn’t Always the Answer

While platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com, and Vrbo have revolutionized the short-term rental industry, they often fall short when it comes to meeting the needs of mid-term tenants. These platforms are primarily designed for vacationers and short-term tourists, with listings that prioritize location and aesthetic appeal over long-term livability and functionality.

Take, for example, a business traveler or remote worker coming to Prague for a six-week project. Booking a hotel for that entire period would likely be too expensive, and living in a 20-square-meter hotel room with no kitchen or dedicated workspace quickly becomes uncomfortable. Airbnb might seem like a good middle-ground—but it comes with its own set of limitations.

First, pricing on these platforms is typically optimized for short stays. While discounts are often offered for monthly bookings, the cost remains significantly higher than what would be expected for a standard mid-term lease. Additionally, service fees and cleaning charges can quickly add up, making these rentals less cost-effective for longer durations.

Second, many Airbnb properties are located in tourist-heavy neighborhoods, which may not be ideal for someone seeking a quiet, residential environment for work or study. Frequent noise, foot traffic, and a lack of local services like supermarkets or coworking spaces can make day-to-day life more difficult. Furthermore, some apartments are optimized for ease of maintenance and guest turnover rather than for actual comfort—think sofa beds instead of real beds, minimal storage space, or poor lighting for work.

Conclusion: Shaping the Future of Urban Living

Mid-term rentals are more than a trend—they’re part of a global shift toward flexible, experience-driven living. In a world where work and life are increasingly mobile, the need for reliable, comfortable, and well-serviced housing is greater than ever.

Sources: https://praguemorning.cz/