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Cost of Living in Queenstown, New Zealand | Expat Exchange
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Cost of Living in Queenstown, New Zealand

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Apr 14, 2025

Summary: What is the cost of living in Queenstown, New Zealand? Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Queenstown talk about the general living costs, the cost of housing and health insurance.

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Is the cost of living in Queenstown high?

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

"The cost of living in Queenstown is considered to be quite high compared to other parts of the country. This is largely due to the town's popularity as a tourist destination and its relatively remote location. Housing is the most significant expense, with both rental and purchase prices being considerably higher than the national average. Food and groceries are also more expensive in Queenstown, as are utilities such as electricity, gas, and internet. Dining out, entertainment, and recreational activities can also add to the cost, particularly as Queenstown is known for its outdoor adventure opportunities. Transportation costs can vary, depending on whether you own a car or rely on public transport. Petrol prices tend to be higher than in other parts of New Zealand, but public transport options are available and are reasonably priced. Healthcare is another factor to consider. While New Zealand has a public healthcare system, there can be costs associated with certain services or treatments, and these can be higher in Queenstown than in other areas. Overall, while the cost of living in Queenstown is high, many residents feel that the town's natural beauty, outdoor lifestyle, and vibrant community make it worth the expense," said one expat in Queenstown.

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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William RussellWilliam Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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Will I save money living in Queenstown?

"The cost of living in Queenstown can vary greatly depending on your lifestyle and spending habits. Generally, the cost of living is considered to be higher than in many parts of the United States. This is due to factors such as the cost of housing, groceries, and dining out, which tend to be more expensive in Queenstown. However, healthcare and education are often less expensive in New Zealand compared to the United States. Therefore, whether or not you save money living in Queenstown compared to the United States will largely depend on your personal circumstances and lifestyle choices," said one expat in Queenstown.

What is the average cost of housing in Queenstown?

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

"The average cost of housing in Queenstown can vary greatly depending on the type and location of the property. As of recent data, the median price for a residential property in Queenstown is around NZD 1.1 million. However, prices can go much higher for luxury properties or those with prime locations. On the other hand, more affordable housing options such as apartments or townhouses can be found at lower prices. It's important to note that Queenstown is known for its high cost of living, with housing prices significantly higher than the national average," said one expat in Queenstown.

William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

Learn MoreGet Quote

William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

Learn MoreGet Quote

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.

William Russell
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Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
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William RussellWilliam Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
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