01/09/2026
10 IMPORTANT FACTS ABOUT HOMELESSNESS IN PRAGUE
1. Around 20,000 people are affected
Prague’s major 2020 study estimated that approximately 20,000 residents were experiencing homelessness, housing insecurity or unsuitable housing.
2. Thousands sleeping without a secure roof
An estimated 3,900–4,900 people were sleeping outside, in makeshift shelters or in emergency night shelters.
3. Around 8,700 people have no home of their own
This included people living in hostels, shelters, institutions, healthcare facilities or temporarily staying with others.
4. Another 7,000 people were at serious risk
Approximately 7,000 people were facing the loss of their home or living in inadequate housing.
5. Serious health problems are common
The research found that a significant proportion of people experiencing homelessness also lived with serious physical or mental-health difficulties.
6. Registration can become another barrier
Only around one-quarter had permanent residence registered in Prague. Being registered elsewhere can make accessing social support more difficult.
7. Around one-quarter are not Czech nationals
People of other nationalities made up approximately 25% of Prague’s homeless population, with Slovaks forming the largest group.
8. Homelessness often lasts for years
For most people studied, homelessness had already continued for several years—and sometimes much longer.
9. Shelters reveal only part of the problem
Only around one-quarter repeatedly used Prague’s shelters and night services. Many moved between the streets, hostels, squats, friends’ homes and temporary accommodation.
10. Homeless does not always mean unemployed
Staff at Prague’s Hermes night shelter reported that most of its guests worked or had temporary jobs. Having work does not guarantee access to secure and affordable housing.
At FriendShip Prague, we offer food, essential supplies, conversation and respect...because nobody should feel invisible in their own city.
www.friendshipprague.com
