The cost of living in Auckland is fairly high when compared to cities such as Brisbane and Stockholm. The city ranks 103rd out of 209 cities in the Mercer Cost of Living Survey in 2020.
With New Zealand being an island, food cost ends up being higher than one may be used to, as many products have to be imported. The cost of accommodation has also skyrocketed in recent years with more and more expats choosing to settle in Auckland. Luckily, the competitive salaries offered in this economic hub tend to make up for the high cost of living. The standard of living is also great which also makes high prices more bearable. Most expats feel like the prices paid justify the feeling of safety and wellbeing that comes with life in Auckland.
Cost of accommodation in Auckland
Accommodation is likely to be the biggest expense for anyone moving to Auckland. Like in most cities, rental prices in the city centre tend to be more expensive than those in the suburbs.
Since Auckland is the economic hub of New Zealand, it may be especially hard for expats to find accommodation here. The city is known for being the most expensive in the country when it comes to rental prices. To further complicate the matter, the city’s growing population has further increased the demand for accommodation.
Utilities are generally not included in the rental price of a property, so expats should budget accordingly. On a positive note, accommodation tends to be spacious and good value for money.
Cost of groceries in Auckland
Another big expense in Auckland will be grocery shopping. New Zealand is remotely isolated from many places. Therefore specific groceries often have to be imported. For example, many meat and dairy products in Auckland are imported which makes them more costly than one may be used to. Foreigners can manage their shopping budget by purchasing local goods and taking advantage of the special offers that commonly run at supermarkets and convenience stores.
Cost of transport in Auckland
Public transport in Auckland is reasonably priced. The city also has monthly and annual transport passes available which cut down the costs of transport even further.
Many expats will find that car prices are also relatively inexpensive. The price for gasoline (petrol) isn’t too high either. While people don't necessarily need a car, especially in the city, it can be useful for expats with families or those who travel regularly for work.
Cost of living in Auckland chart
Note that prices may vary depending on product and service provider. The list below shows average prices in Auckland in January 2021.
Accommodation (monthly rent) |
|
One-bedroom apartment in city centre |
NZD 1,900 |
Three-bedroom apartment in city centre |
NZD 3,500 |
One-bedroom apartment outside of the city centre |
NZD 1,600 |
Three-bedroom apartment outside of the city centre |
NZD 2,700 |
Groceries |
|
Dozen eggs |
NZD 6.20 |
Milk (1 litre) |
NZD 2.80 |
Loaf of white bread |
NZD 3 |
Chicken breasts (1kg) |
NZD 15 |
Pack of cigarettes (Marlboro) |
NZD 35 |
Utilities/household |
|
Mobile call rate (per minute – mobile to mobile) |
NZD 0.35 |
Internet (uncapped ADSL or cable – average per month) |
NZD 85 |
Basic utilities (average per month for a small apartment) |
NZD 200 |
Eating out and entertainment |
|
Three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant for two |
NZD 90 |
Big Mac Meal |
NZD 12.20 |
Cappuccino |
NZD 5 |
Coca-Cola (330ml) |
NZD 3.50 |
Local beer (500ml) |
NZD 10 |
Transportation |
|
Taxi rate per km |
NZD 3 |
City centre public transport |
NZD 4 |
Petrol (per litre) |
NZD 2.15 |
Are you an expat living in Auckland?
Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Auckland. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute.
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