The cost of living in New Zealand is significantly higher than in India, with expenses varying by lifestyle and location. A single person spends around NZD 1,730 (INR 87K) per month, excluding rent, while a family of four may need NZD 6,230 (INR 3.15L) monthly. Rent alone can range from NZD 1,200 (INR 61K) to NZD 4,800 (INR 2.42L) depending on the city and property type.
In this guide, you'll read more about average monthly expenses, city-wise cost comparisons, housing and grocery prices, transportation and utility bills, healthcare costs, lifestyle spending, and smart budgeting tips.
What is the Average Cost of Living in New Zealand?
The average cost of living in New Zealand per month depends on your lifestyle, city, and household size. A single person spends around NZD 1,730 (INR 87K) monthly, excluding rent. For a family of four, the estimated monthly cost is approximately NZD 6,230 (INR 3.15L), also excluding rent. These figures reflect basic living expenses such as food, transport, utilities, and leisure.
New Zealand’s cost of living is significantly higher than India’s. On average, living expenses are 207.5% higher, and rent is 467.5% more expensive. This makes budgeting essential, especially for international students and migrants.
Here’s a quick visual comparison:
Monthly cost of living in New Zealand overview:
Expense Category
Single Person
Family of Four
Food & Groceries
NZD 600 (INR 30K)
NZD 1,500 (INR 76K)
Transportation
NZD 200 (INR 10K)
NZD 500 (INR 25K)
Utilities & Internet
NZD 150 (INR 8K)
NZD 300 (INR 15K)
Leisure & Dining
NZD 300 (INR 15K)
NZD 800 (INR 40K)
Miscellaneous
NZD 480 (INR 24K)
NZD 1,130 (INR 57K)
Total
NZD 1,730 (INR 87K)
NZD 6,230 (INR 3.15L)
Note: These are average estimates and may vary by city and lifestyle.
If you're wondering what is the cost of living in New Zealand for Indian students or professionals, it's important to factor in both fixed and variable costs. While essentials like groceries and transport are manageable, rent and leisure can quickly add up.
Whether you're planning tostudy in New Zealand, work, or settle, understanding the average cost of living in New Zealand per month helps you prepare better.
In the next section, we’ll explore how these costs vary across major cities like Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Dunedin.
The cost of living in New Zealand varies significantly across cities. While the national average gives a general idea, actual monthly expenses depend heavily on where you live. Larger cities like Auckland and Wellington tend to be more expensive, while smaller cities such as Christchurch and Dunedin offer more affordable options.
If you're wondering which city is low cost of living in New Zealand, Dunedin consistently ranks as one of the cheapest. On the other hand, Auckland, being the largest and most urbanized city, has the highest living costs. This includes food, transport, utilities, and leisure, even before rent is factored in.
Here’s a visual comparison of the average monthly cost of living in New Zealand per city, excluding rent:
Here is the monthly average cost comparison by city:
City
Monthly Cost
Auckland
NZD 1,850 (INR 94K)
Wellington
NZD 1,750 (INR 88K)
Christchurch
NZD 1,650 (INR 83K)
Dunedin
NZD 1,550 (INR 78K)
Note: These figures are based on Numbeo estimates and reflect average costs for a single person.
Housing is one of the biggest contributors to the overall cost of living in New Zealand. Whether you're renting a studio apartment or a family-sized home, prices vary widely depending on the city, location, and type of accommodation.
In general, rent in New Zealand is significantly higher than in India. If you're wondering how much is cost of living in New Zealand when rent is included, here's a breakdown to help you estimate:
Type of Apartment
City Centre
Outside City Centre
1-Bedroom Apartment
NZD 1,850 (INR 94K)
NZD 1,530 (INR 77K)
3-Bedroom Apartment
NZD 2,955 (INR 1.49L)
NZD 2,595 (INR 1.31L)
Note: Prices may vary based on city, amenities, and proximity to public transport.
Shared Housing vs. Private Rentals
Shared housing is popular among students and young professionals. It can reduce monthly rent by 30–50%.
Private rentals offer more privacy but come at a higher cost, especially in central areas.
Urban vs. Suburban Living
Urban areas like Auckland and Wellington have higher rent due to demand and proximity to jobs.
Suburban regions or smaller cities like Dunedin and Hamilton offer more affordable housing options.
If you're planning to relocate, understanding the average cost of living in New Zealand per month with rent included is essential.
Food is a core part of the cost of living in New Zealand, and it can vary depending on your lifestyle. If you cook at home regularly, your monthly grocery bill will be much lower than someone who eats out often. On average, a single person spends around NZD 600 (INR 30K) per month on food, while a family of four may spend up to NZD 1,500 (INR 76K).
If you're wondering how much is cost of living in New Zealand when it comes to food, here's a breakdown of common grocery items:
Milk (1L): NZD 3.06 (INR 155)
Bread (500g): NZD 3.23 (INR 163)
Rice (1kg): NZD 3.03 (INR 153)
Eggs (12): NZD 10.82 (INR 547)
Chicken (1kg): NZD 16.12 (INR 815)
Apples (1kg): NZD 4.69 (INR 237)
Tomatoes (1kg): NZD 8.20 (INR 414)
Dining out is more expensive. A basic meal at a local restaurant costs around NZD 25 (INR 1.26K), while a mid-range dinner for two can go up to NZD 130 (INR 6.57K). If you're calculating the average cost of living in New Zealand per month, food is a major contributor.
Understanding what is the average cost of living in New Zealand also means knowing where to shop.
Popular supermarket chains include:
Countdown
New World
Pak’nSave
FreshChoice
These stores offer a wide range of products, and prices may vary slightly depending on location and brand.
Transportation Costs
Transportation is a key part of the cost of living in New Zealand, especially if you commute daily or travel between cities. Public transport is reliable in major cities like Auckland and Wellington, while smaller towns may require private vehicles or carpooling.
If you're calculating the average cost of living in New Zealand per month, transport expenses range from NZD 200 (INR 10K) for a single person to NZD 500 (INR 25K) for a family. These costs include bus fares, train passes, fuel, and occasional taxi rides.
Here are the average costs:
Transport Type
Average Cost (NZD)
One-way ticket (local)
NZD 4.00 (INR 202)
Monthly pass
NZD 200.00 (INR 10K)
Taxi start fare
NZD 4.00 (INR 202)
Taxi per km
NZD 3.28 (INR 166)
Petrol (1 litre)
NZD 2.80 (INR 141)
Prices may vary slightly depending on the city and transport provider.
For those living in suburban areas or cities with limited public transport, owning a car may be necessary. However, this adds to monthly expenses through fuel, insurance, and maintenance.
Understanding how much is cost of living in New Zealand also means factoring in your daily commute. Whether you’re using buses, trains, or taxis, transport is a recurring expense that can impact your overall budget.
Utility Bills and Internet Charges
Utilities and internet are essential monthly expenses that contribute to the average cost of living in New Zealand per month. These include electricity, water, heating, garbage collection, mobile plans, and broadband services.
On average, a single person spends around NZD 150–250 (INR 8K–13K) per month on utilities, while a family may spend NZD 300–400 (INR 15K–20K) depending on usage and season.
Here are the average costs according to the seasons:
Service
Estimated Cost (NZD)
Electricity, Water, Heating (85m² Apt)
NZD 234.36 (INR 11.83K)
Mobile Plan (Calls + 10GB Data)
NZD 56.29 (INR 2.84K)
Broadband Internet (60 Mbps+)
NZD 85.81 (INR 4.33K)
Note: Prices may vary based on provider, location, and usage.
If you're wondering what is the cost of living in New Zealand when it comes to connectivity, internet services are generally fast and reliable, but not cheap. Most households opt for unlimited data plans, which cost around NZD 70–110 (INR 3.5K–5.5K) per month.
For Indian students and professionals, budgeting for utilities is important. Seasonal changes, especially in winter, can increase heating costs.
Healthcare and Insurance Costs
Healthcare in New Zealand is a mix of public and private services. Residents and eligible migrants have access to subsidized public healthcare, but many still opt for private insurance to cover specialist treatments and faster access. For international students and professionals, private health insurance is often mandatory.
If you're estimating the average cost of living in New Zealand per month, healthcare is a variable expense. While basic public services are free or low-cost, private consultations and treatments can be expensive.
Health insurance (monthly): NZD 50–100 (INR 2.5K–5K)
Note: Prices vary based on provider, location, and coverage.
Understanding how much is cost of living in New Zealand also means preparing for unexpected medical expenses. Having insurance helps reduce out-of-pocket costs and ensures access to quality care when needed.
Entertainment and lifestyle choices can significantly influence the average cost of living in New Zealand per month. Whether you're a student, working professional, or a family, your spending on leisure activities, dining, fitness, and hobbies will vary based on preferences and location.
On average, a single person may spend NZD 300–500 (INR 15K–25K) monthly on lifestyle-related expenses. For families, this can go up to NZD 800–1,200 (INR 40K–61K) depending on how active and social they are.
Lifestyle Expenses on average are:
Gym membership (monthly): NZD 64.20 (INR 3.24K)
Cinema ticket (1 seat): NZD 20.00 (INR 1K)
Tennis court rent (1 hour): NZD 25.41 (INR 1.28K)
Mid-range bottle of wine: NZD 16.00 (INR 808)
Casual dining (meal for two): NZD 130.00 (INR 6.57K)
If you're wondering what is the cost of living in New Zealand beyond essentials, lifestyle spending is where flexibility comes in. You can choose budget-friendly options or indulge in premium experiences depending on your income and priorities.
Understanding the cost of living in New Zealand also means knowing where to cut back when needed. Lifestyle expenses are optional but can quickly add up if not tracked.
Budgeting Tips to Save Money in New Zealand
Whether you're trying to reduce rent, grocery bills, or transport costs, budgeting plays a key role in controlling the cost of living in New Zealand per month.
Here are some practical tips to help you save:
Choose shared accommodation
Renting with flatmates can cut housing costs by 30–50%, especially in cities like Auckland and Wellington.
Cook at home
Eating out frequently adds up. Cooking meals at home can save you hundreds of NZD each month.
Use public transport
Monthly passes are cheaper than owning a car. Students often get discounted rates.
Shop smart
Buy groceries in bulk from stores like Pak’nSave or Countdown. Look out for weekly deals and loyalty programs.
Track your spending
Use budgeting apps like PocketSmith or Sorted NZ to monitor expenses and set savings goals.
Limit subscriptions
Cancel unused memberships and streaming services. Stick to essentials.
Explore free activities
New Zealand offers plenty of free entertainment, hiking trails, beaches, public parks, and community events.
Buy second-hand
Furniture, electronics, and clothing are often available at great prices on Trade Me or local thrift stores.
Plan for seasonal costs
Heating bills rise in winter. Budget ahead to avoid surprises.
Set a monthly savings target
Even saving NZD 100 (INR 5K) a month adds up over time and helps with emergency expenses.
Conclusion
The average cost of living in New Zealand depends on your lifestyle, location, and spending habits. From groceries and transport to rent and healthcare, monthly expenses can range from NZD 1,730 (INR 87K) for individuals to NZD 6,230 (INR 3.15L) for families. Knowing what is the cost of living in New Zealand helps you plan better and avoid financial stress.
If you're still wondering how much is cost of living in New Zealand or any other country for Indian students or professionals, our experts can guide you based on your goals and budget. Book a free 1:1 counselling session with upGrad experts to get personalized advice on studying, living, and thriving in New Zealand.
FAQ
Is New Zealand considered an expensive country to live in?
Yes, New Zealand is relatively expensive compared to India. The cost of living in New Zealand is about 207% higher. A single person may spend around NZD 1,730 (INR 87K) per month, excluding rent. Expenses vary by city, lifestyle, and housing choices.
What factors influence the cost of living in New Zealand?
The cost of living in New Zealand per month depends on location, housing type, transport, food habits, and lifestyle. Urban areas like Auckland are costlier than smaller cities. Seasonal changes and personal choices also impact monthly expenses.
How does the cost of living in New Zealand compare to Australia or Canada?
The average cost of living in New Zealand is slightly lower than Australia but comparable to Canada. Rent and groceries are more affordable in New Zealand, but transport and dining can be expensive. Monthly costs range from NZD 1,700–2,000 (INR 86K–1L) for individuals.
What is the minimum monthly budget required to live comfortably in New Zealand?
To live comfortably, a single person needs at least NZD 2,000 (INR 1.01L) per month, including rent. This covers food, transport, utilities, and leisure. Families may need NZD 6,500–7,000 (INR 3.28L–3.54L) monthly depending on location and lifestyle.
Are living costs higher in urban areas than in rural regions of New Zealand?
Yes, urban centres like Auckland and Wellington have higher rent and food prices. Rural areas offer cheaper housing and groceries. If you're calculating the average cost of living in New Zealand per month, city choice plays a major role.
How much does a student typically spend monthly in New Zealand?
Students usually spend around NZD 1,500–1,800 (INR 76K–91K) per month, including shared rent, food, and transport. The cost of living in New Zealand for Indian students can be reduced by cooking at home and using student discounts.
Is the cost of living in New Zealand manageable for international students?
Yes, with budgeting, the cost of living in New Zealand per month is manageable. Shared housing, public transport, and student discounts help reduce expenses. Most students spend NZD 1,500–1,800 (INR 76K–91K) monthly.
What are the hidden or unexpected costs of living in New Zealand?
Unexpected costs include medical bills, seasonal heating, car maintenance, and school fees. These can add NZD 200–400 (INR 10K–20K) monthly. Factoring these in gives a clearer picture of what is the cost of living in New Zealand.
How do seasonal changes affect monthly expenses in New Zealand?
Winter increases heating and electricity bills by NZD 100–150 (INR 5K–8K). Summer may reduce utility costs. Seasonal produce also affects grocery prices. These fluctuations impact the average cost of living in New Zealand per month.
Is it cheaper to live alone or in shared accommodation in New Zealand?
Shared accommodation is 30–50% cheaper. A private room may cost NZD 1,800 (INR 91K), while shared housing can be NZD 1,000–1,200 (INR 50K–61K). For students, sharing helps manage the cost of living in New Zealand.
How much does childcare and early education cost in New Zealand?
Private preschool costs around NZD 1,200–2,000 (INR 61K–1.01L) monthly. International schools charge NZD 12,000–25,000 (INR 6.06L–12.63L) yearly. These are major contributors to the cost of living in New Zealand for Indian families.
Are there government subsidies or support for residents to manage living costs?
Yes, eligible residents receive subsidies for housing, healthcare, and childcare. These reduce the average cost of living in New Zealand. International students may not qualify but can access university support services.
What are the most affordable suburbs to live in New Zealand?
Suburbs in Christchurch, Dunedin, and Hamilton offer lower rent and grocery costs. Living outside city centres can reduce the cost of living in New Zealand per month by NZD 300–500 (INR 15K–25K).
Can you live in New Zealand on a part-time job salary as a student?
Yes, but budgeting is essential. Part-time jobs pay around NZD 22/hour (INR 1.1K). Students working 20 hours/week can earn NZD 1,760 (INR 89K) monthly, enough to cover basic cost of living in New Zealand for Indian students.
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