Expat Exchange
Free MembershipSign In
Auckland, New Zealand

Cost of Living in New Zealand

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Jan 05, 2023

Summary: The cost of living in New Zealand is generally considered to be quite high. A nice one bedroom apartment in New Zealand can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $2,500 USD per month, while a nice two bedroom apartment can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $3,500 USD per month. The cost of dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in New Zealand is usually around $20 to $30 USD per person.

AGS Worldwide Movers
AGS Worldwide Movers
AGS Worldwide Movers
AGS Worldwide Movers

Is the cost of living in New Zealand high?

We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in New Zealand, they wrote:

"The cost of living in New Zealand varies depending on the city and lifestyle. Generally, the cost of living in New Zealand is higher than in many other countries, with the average cost of living in Auckland being the highest. Rent, groceries, and transportation are all more expensive than in other countries. However, the cost of living in New Zealand is offset by the high quality of life, with excellent healthcare, education, and infrastructure," remarked one in New Zealand.

Answer this Question

The insurance that travels with you. Now Health International's insurance plans offer you access to world-class healthcare facilities and treatment wherever and whenever you need it. With digital services, 24x7 customer support in different languages, and award-winning service, Now Health International will look after you no matter where you choose to go. Get a Quote from Now Health International.
Now Health InternationalNow Health International

The insurance that travels with you. Now Health International's insurance plans offer you access to world-class healthcare facilities and treatment wherever and whenever you need it. With digital services, 24x7 customer support in different languages, and award-winning service, Now Health International will look after you no matter where you choose to go. Get a Quote from Now Health International.
GET A QUOTE

Will I save money living in New Zealand?

"Living in New Zealand can be more affordable than living in the United States in some areas. The cost of living in New Zealand is generally lower than in the United States, with lower prices for groceries, housing, and transportation. Additionally, New Zealand has a lower income tax rate than the United States, which can help to reduce overall living costs," said one person in New Zealand.

Answer this Question

What is the average cost of housing in New Zealand?

If you are thinking about moving to New Zealand, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The housing costs are hard to guage against what we were use to in the USA...or elswhere. Kiwi houses are not as well insulated, nor heated as in the USA. Construction standards/techniques are different but the more modern house (less than 15 years old) are as good as anywhere in the world. We live in an exceptionally beautiful area and there is no way we could ever afford to buy a similar house in say California at 5 times the price. An average, well constructed, 3-4 bedroom house in our community costs about US$125,00," said one expat in Warkworth.

Answer Question & View More Answers

Now Health International

The insurance that travels with you. Now Health International's insurance plans offer you access to world-class healthcare facilities and treatment wherever and whenever you need it. With digital services, 24x7 customer support in different languages, and award-winning service, Now Health International will look after you no matter where you choose to go. Get a Quote from Now Health International.

Learn MoreGET A QUOTE

Now Health International

The insurance that travels with you. Now Health International's insurance plans offer you access to world-class healthcare facilities and treatment wherever and whenever you need it. With digital services, 24x7 customer support in different languages, and award-winning service, Now Health International will look after you no matter where you choose to go. Get a Quote from Now Health International.

Learn MoreGET A QUOTE

What are typical rental prices for expats in New Zealand?

"The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in New Zealand can vary depending on the location, but generally ranges from around $1,000 to $2,000 per month. For a nice 2 bedroom apartment, the rental price can range from around $1,500 to $3,000 per month," said one expat.

Answer this Question

What appliances are typically included in a rental?

We asked foreigners in New Zealand what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:

"In New Zealand, rental properties typically include a refrigerator, oven, stove, and washing machine. Other common appliances that may be included are a dishwasher, microwave, and dryer. Depending on the property, additional appliances such as a vacuum cleaner, toaster, and kettle may also be provided," said one expat living in New Zealand.

Answer this Question

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

Auckland, New Zealand

Now Health International
Now Health International

Live Healthier, Live Happier with award winning international health insurance. Get up to 40% discount on new plans.
GET A QUOTE

Now Health InternationalNow Health International

Live Healthier, Live Happier with award winning international health insurance. Get up to 40% discount on new plans.
GET A QUOTE

Contribute to New Zealand Network Contribute
Help others in New Zealand by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in New Zealand.

AGS Worldwide Movers
AGS Worldwide Movers

Copyright 1997-2023 Burlingame Interactive, Inc.

Privacy Policy Legal