New Zealand is a place of breathtaking beauty, where rolling hills meet stunning coastlines, and vibrant cities like Auckland offer a mix of urban sophistication and natural wonder. It’s no surprise that Auckland has been ranked among the top 10 most livable cities in the world. With a good per capita disposable income, it’s easy to see why so many people dream of calling New Zealand home.
But, as with any dream, there are practical considerations—like the cost of living in New Zealand. You’ve probably heard mixed reports online, some saying New Zealand is a pricey place to live. So, let’s explore what it really costs to live here in 2024.
Takeaway: The Cost of Living in New Zealand per Month.
The Cost of living in New Zealand per month can range from NZD 3,000 to NZD 5,000 for a single person, depending on their lifestyle and housing choices.
Expense Category | Monthly Cost (NZD) |
Rent(for a single person) | 720 – 1,600 |
Utilities(electricity, water, gas & phone plan) | 150 – 300 |
Groceries & Dining Out | 600 – 1,000 |
Transportation | 300 – 600 |
Entertainment | 50 – 200 |
Health | 50 – 100 |
Miscellaneous (Clothes and others) | 200 – 500 |
Total | 3,000 – 5,000 |
Part 1: What is the Cost of Living in New Zealand?
1. Housing Costs

Rent
If you’re considering renting in New Zealand, you’ll quickly learn that rent is paid weekly, which might be a bit of a surprise if you’re used to monthly payments. A common arrangement includes a two-week deposit and one week’s rent paid upfront. The good news is, many rentals include water, electricity, and internet, but not always—so it’s wise to double-check with your landlord.
For a single room, you might spend between NZD 180 and 250 per week. If you prefer a bit more privacy, a one-bedroom apartment might set you back NZD 300 to 450 per week. However, there are a few things to keep in mind. Gas and heating are often extra, so ask before signing anything. And don’t forget to consider safety—there have been stories of car break-ins, especially in certain neighborhoods. Lastly, some rentals come unfurnished, so you might have to invest in furniture—perhaps a Kmart and Warehouse run is in your future!
Buying a House
If you’re dreaming of settling down and buying a house, the prices can vary quite a bit depending on where you’re looking. According to NZ Sotheby’s Realty, the average asking price for a home across New Zealand is around NZD 927,284. In Auckland, sipping a flat white at a local café, and considering a home here—it might cost you around NZD 1,263.937.
According to Realestate.co.nz, the average asking price for residential properties fell from $927,312 in February to $816,797 in July, marking a decrease of about 11.9%. If you’ve been waiting for the right time to buy, this might just be it.
2. Utilities
Electricity
New Zealand’s electricity market has several providers, each offering different plans. An average household in New Zealand uses about 7,000 kWh per year, which is approximately 583 kWh per month. One can expect to pay around NZD 200 per month, depending on your usage and the time of year—winters can be chilly!
Water
Water bills in New Zealand vary by region, but typically, you’ll see monthly costs ranging from NZD 40 to 60. Picture yourself washing the dishes after a hearty meal or enjoying a long, hot shower after a day exploring the countryside. It’s a small price to pay for the comfort and convenience of clean water on tap.
Gas
A typical household might use around 20 gigajoules (GJ) of gas per year, which is approximately 1.67 GJ per month. At an average of 11 NZD per GJ, the monthly gas cost would be about NZD 18.
Mobile Phone Plans
Staying connected in New Zealand is easy, with providers like One NZ and Spark offering a range of mobile plans.
Whether you’re chatting with friends, scrolling through social media, or navigating your way through a new city, you’ll find plans starting around NZD 20 per month. For more data or international calling, you might pay closer to NZD 70 per month.
3. Food & Groceries

Buying Groceries
Grocery shopping in New Zealand can be an adventure in itself. Imagine strolling through the aisles of New World, Woolworths, or Pak’nSave. Pak’nSave is known for its budget-friendly prices, so if you’re looking to save a few dollars, that might be your go-to.
Meat
Let’s talk about the Sunday roast or that midweek stir-fry. For your meat needs:
- Chicken: NZD 12-15 per kg
- Beef: NZD 18-22 per kg
- Lamb: NZD 20-25 per kg
Vegetables
Fresh produce is plentiful, with some staples priced as follows:
- Potatoes: NZD 3-4 per kg
- Carrots: NZD 2-3 per kg
- Broccoli: NZD 3-5 per head
Dining Out
Sometimes, you just don’t feel like cooking—understandable! Chill yourself at a quaint café, sipping on a freshly brewed flat white, which will typically cost between NZD 5-10. Or perhaps you’re dining at a cozy local restaurant where a meal might set you back around NZD 20. Dining out can be an enjoyable experience, but it’s something to budget for.
All told, you’re likely looking at spending between NZD 600 to 1,000 per month on groceries and dining out, depending on your tastes and how often you eat out.
4. Transportation
When it comes to getting around, New Zealand’s public transport is somewhat limited. If you want to navigate through Auckland or Wellington—buses and trains are available, but many locals prefer to drive. Between car expenses and public transport, you’re looking at spending around NZD 300 to 600 per month on getting around.
Bus/Train

To ride the bus, you’ll need an AT HOP card—no cash payments allowed. Fares range from NZD 2.6 to 12.7, depending on the distance. There’s a weekly cap of NZD 50, which means once you hit that, your rides are free for the rest of the week. Off-peak discounts and student rates are also available, making public transport a bit more affordable.
Car
For many, owning a car is the way to go. Most people choose to behind the wheel of a reliable used car, which might cost anywhere from NZD 5,000 to 20,000.
Don’t forget about petrol (around NZD 2.50 per litre), parking fees (NZD 1-5 per hour in city centres), and annual costs like vehicle inspections and road taxes, which can add up to around NZD 200-300.
5. Entertainment
New Zealand offers an abundance of free and low-cost entertainment options. You can hike through national parks, lounge on stun beaches, or visit cultural festivals. If you want to find some things to do in Auckland, check this guide.
Gym Memberships

Whether you’re into high-intensity workouts, yoga, or just a bit of light cardio, there’s a gym to suit your vibe. Les Mills is a popular choice, offering a wide range of classes from BodyPump to spin sessions, and memberships start around NZD 33.5 per week.
If you prefer a more boutique experience, you might find yourself at a place like CityFitness, where the vibe is a bit more low-key, and memberships are more affordable, starting at about NZD 6.99 per week.
For those who love a scenic run or some outdoor yoga, many gyms also offer outdoor sessions, so you can enjoy New Zealand’s stunning landscapes while staying fit. No matter your fitness style, there’s a spot that’ll feel just right for you.
6. Health
Living in New Zealand, you’ll find healthcare accessible, but it’s important to be prepared for the costs. Healthcare costs in New Zealand vary depending on whether you use public or private services. A visit to the doctor can cost between NZD 50 and NZD 70, while specialist visits can be more expensive. Prescription medications also come with additional costs.
For peace of mind, many people opt for health insurance, which can range from NZD 50 to 150 per month, depending on the coverage. This could help cover specialist visits, hospital stays, or even routine check-ups. It’s like having a little safety net, ensuring you can enjoy your Kiwi adventure without any worries about healthcare costs.
7. Taxes
New Zealand’s tax system is straightforward, with rates varying based on income. Here’s a quick rundown from New Zealand Government website:
From 1 April 2024 to March 31, 2025
- Up to NZD 14,000: 10.5%
- NZD 14,001 to NZD 15,600: 12.82%
- NZD 15,601 to NZD 48,000: 17.5%
- NZD 48,001 to NZD 53,500: 21.64%
- NZD 53,501 to NZD 70,000: 30%
- NZD 70,001 to NZD 78,100: 30.99%
- NZD 78,101 to NZD 180,000: 33%
- Over NZD 180,001: 39%
From 1 April, 2025
- Up to NZD 15,600: 10.5%
- NZD 15,601 to NZD 53,500: 17.5%
- NZD 53,501 to NZD 78,100: 30%
- NZD 78,101 to NZD 180,000: 33%
- NZD 18,001 and over: 39%
Part 2: What’s the Average Salary in New Zealand?
So, what’s the pay like? As of 2024, the minimum wage is NZD 23.15 per hour. Salaries vary by profession, you may find data provided by Talent NZ.
Industry | Average Annual Salary |
Accounting, Administration & Human Resources | $76,027 |
Architecture & Creative Arts | $70,592 |
Banking, Finance & Insurance | $84,789 |
Childcare & Education | $85,375 |
Construction & Maintenance | $69,841 |
Engineering | $92,339 |
Food Services | $56,032 |
Healthcare, Pharmaceutical & Social Services | $95,861 |
Hospitality & Travel | $67,742 |
Information Technology | $87,325 |
Journalism & Translation | $65,139 |
Law Enforcement & Security | $74,579 |
Legal | $75,760 |
Marketing & Sales | $83,202 |
Retail, Cosmetics & Customer Service | $51,273 |
Science | $93,135 |
Shipping, Manufacturing & Transportation | $52,615 |
If you’re on the hunt for straightforward job opportunities, you might simply walk into local shops or cafés, resume in hand, and introduce yourself. Alternatively, you can submit your resume through Trade Me while relaxing at home.
If you’re eyeing immigration for work, it’s wise to check New Zealand’s in-demand occupations beforehand. Doing so will help you target roles that are more likely to lead to job offers and make your move here much smoother.
Part 3: Why is the Cost of Living So High in New Zealand?
The cost of living in New Zealand is driven by several factors, including the country’s geographic isolation, reliance on imports, and high demand for housing in major cities. Additionally, the country’s strong focus on environmental preservation and sustainability can contribute to higher costs for goods and services.
Conclusion
The Cost of living in New Zealand can vary widely depending on your lifestyle, location, and personal preferences. While some aspects of living in New Zealand may be expensive, careful budgeting and lifestyle choices can make it an affordable and enjoyable place to live.