Wellington, New Zealand
Cost of living · 2024 · Oceania · Rent +6.4% vs 2023
Rent trend in Wellington (2022–2026)
Cost breakdown in Wellington (2024)
Estimated monthly budget in Wellington
Based on 2024 data. Includes rent, groceries, transport, utilities and occasional dining out.
Cost comparison — cities in New Zealand (2024)
| City | 1-Bed Rent | Groceries | Transport | Utilities | vs Wellington |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wellington | NZD 2,200 | NZD 590 | NZD 215 | NZD 195 | — |
| Auckland | NZD 2,600 | NZD 620 | NZD 225 | NZD 210 | +18.2% |
| Christchurch | NZD 1,850 | NZD 565 | NZD 175 | NZD 185 | -15.9% |
Other Oceania cities (2024)
Frequently asked questions
What is the cost of living in Wellington in 2024?
In 2024, a single person living in Wellington needs approximately NZD 3,352/month, covering rent, groceries, transport and utilities. A family of 3–4 typically spends around NZD 6,387/month. Wellington is considered a relatively expensive city by global standards.
How much is rent in Wellington in 2024?
A 1-bedroom apartment in Wellington costs approximately NZD 2,200/month in 2024. A 3-bedroom apartment runs around NZD 4,000/month. Rent has changed +6.4% vs 2023.
How much do groceries cost in Wellington?
Monthly grocery costs for one person in Wellington are approximately NZD 590 in 2024. This covers basic supermarket shopping including food and household essentials.
What does public transport cost in Wellington?
A monthly public transport pass in Wellington costs NZD 215 in 2024, covering unlimited bus, metro and tram travel within the city.
How much are utilities in Wellington?
Monthly utility costs in Wellington average NZD 195 in 2024, covering electricity, heating/cooling, water and internet for a standard apartment.
Is Wellington expensive to live in?
Wellington is located in New Zealand (Oceania). With a 1-bed rent of NZD 2,200/month and total single-person expenses around NZD 3,352/month, it is relatively expensive by global standards.
How much does eating out cost in Wellington?
A typical restaurant meal for one person in Wellington costs approximately NZD 19 in 2024. Budget around NZD 152/month if dining out a few times a week.
How have living costs in Wellington changed over time?
LifeIndexed tracks cost of living data for Wellington from 2022 to 2026. 1-bed rent has increased by 21% over this period (from NZD 1,936 in 2022 to NZD 2,343 in 2026). Use the year tabs above to compare costs across years.
What is the monthly budget needed to live comfortably in Wellington?
To live comfortably in Wellington in 2024, a single person needs approximately NZD 3,352/month. This covers rent (NZD 2,200), groceries (NZD 590), transport (NZD 215), utilities (NZD 195) and dining out occasionally. A family of 3–4 should budget around NZD 6,387/month.