59 cities covered · Currency: NZD ($) · Capital: Auckland
| Expense | Estimated cost | Basis |
|---|---|---|
| Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | $16.27 ($9.86) | per meal |
| Three-course meal for two, mid-range | $65.06 ($39.43) | per meal |
| Cappuccino | $4.88 ($2.96) | each |
| Monthly groceries (single person) | $369 ($223) | per month |
| Monthly public transport pass | $59.64 ($36.15) | per month |
| Basic utilities for an 85m² apartment | $157 ($95.29) | per month |
| Internet (60 Mbps, unlimited) | $45.54 ($27.60) | per month |
| Fitness club membership | $45.54 ($27.60) | per month |
| Cinema ticket | $11.93 ($7.23) | each |
| One-bedroom apartment in city centre | $1,020 ($618) | per month |
| One-bedroom apartment outside centre | $710 ($430) | per month |
| Three-bedroom apartment in city centre | $2,130 ($1,291) | per month |
Auckland · pop. 1,470,100
Canterbury · pop. 383,200
Wellington · pop. 216,200
Auckland · pop. 205,605
Waikato · pop. 176,500
Bay of Plenty · pop. 151,300
Otago · pop. 106,200
Wellington · pop. 103,400
Manawatu-Wanganui · pop. 81,500
Hawke’s Bay · pop. 66,300
Wellington · pop. 59,600
Bay of Plenty · pop. 58,500
Taranaki · pop. 57,600
Northland · pop. 54,400
Nelson · pop. 51,100
Southland · pop. 50,200
Wellington · pop. 44,300
Manawatu-Wanganui · pop. 42,200
Gisborne · pop. 37,000
Wellington · pop. 30,100
Marlborough · pop. 28,200
Waikato · pop. 25,400
Canterbury · pop. 21,900
Waikato · pop. 20,500
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in New Zealand
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in New Zealand
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in New Zealand
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in New Zealand
Living costs in New Zealand vary significantly depending on city size. Large metropolitan areas with populations over one million typically see housing costs 15–30% above the national average, while smaller towns can be 10–20% below it. The national baseline of $1,794 ($1,087) per month represents a mid-sized city estimate.
Capital cities and major economic hubs command the highest rents and overall expenses. For budget-conscious residents, mid-sized cities offer a balance of amenities and affordability. Rural and small-town living remains the most economical option, though transport and service access may be limited.