Pay-TV services in the Czech Republic continue to become more expensive, yet their usage continues to grow. In the second half of 2025, the average monthly spend on satellite, cable or IPTV reached 460 CZK, representing a year-on-year increase of 9%. This is according to research by the Atmedia Index, conducted by Atmedia, which represents thematic TV channels on the Czech market.
Despite rising prices, more than two-thirds of viewers aged 15 to 69 use pay-TV. IPTV has maintained the strongest growth momentum in recent years, whilst the importance of satellite reception is gradually declining.
“Pay-TV prices have been rising for some time, with a significant turning point occurring in 2024, when the price exceeded the 400-koruna mark for the first time. In addition, we are also seeing rising expenditure on paid VoD services,” said Michaela Suráková, Managing Director of Atmedia.
IPTV as the main driver of growth
In the second half of last year, 67% of Czech TV viewers used pay-TV. IPTV and cable TV, as the main sources of TV signal reception, dominate in 54% of households, whilst satellite has fallen to 13%.
This shift is primarily linked to growing demand for a more flexible way of watching content. Viewers particularly appreciate the ability to watch programmes on demand, which 48% of users cite as the main reason for paying.
A further 34% of viewers rate positively the ability to watch content on multiple devices simultaneously, such as on a mobile phone, tablet or computer. A third (32%) then appreciate the ability to skip adverts.
“Some TV groups restrict or block the ability to skip adverts. The reason is the loss of advertising revenue,” added Suráková.
Location and age are key factors
Significant differences in the use of pay-TV are evident between regions and age groups. In large cities with over 100,000 inhabitants, 64% of viewers use IPTV or cable TV, whilst in smaller towns with up to 20,000 inhabitants, the figure is 50%.
Conversely, satellite reception remains stronger in smaller towns, where 16% of households use it. According to Atmedia, the main reasons are signal stability and simpler installation without the need for a high-quality internet connection.
Pay-TV is also most widespread among younger viewers. In the 15 to 34 age group, almost three-quarters (74%) of viewers use it. However, it maintains a strong position across generations – among viewers aged 45 to 69, the share reaches 63%.
The Atmedia infographic is available for download in PDF format here.
Source: mediaguru.cz