New Zealand
Cost of Living in Wellington
Monthly expenses, rent & budget analysis — Numbeo 2026 country rankings (cost indices) and OECD 2025 PPP rates
COL+Rent: 50.9Rent: 32Groceries: 72.8Restaurant: 56.4
Monthly Budget Estimates
Minimal
$1,786/mo
Outside-center room, basic groceries, public transit
Typical
$2,404/mo
City-center 1BR, regular groceries & dining out
Comfortable
$2,977/mo
Premium apartment, frequent dining, entertainment
Monthly Costs Breakdown
| Category | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Rent (1BR City Center) | $1,478 |
| Rent (1BR Outside Center) | $1,179 |
| Groceries (monthly) | $404 |
| Restaurant Meal | $18 |
| Transit Pass (monthly) | $111 |
| Utilities (monthly) | $141 |
Source: Numbeo 2026 country rankings (cost indices) and OECD 2025 PPP rates · Reviewed April 2026
Can You Afford Wellington?
Compare Wellington with other cities at specific budget levels:
Other Cities in New Zealand
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to live in Wellington?
A minimal monthly budget in Wellington is approximately $1,786, a typical budget is $2,404, and a comfortable lifestyle costs around $2,977 per month.
How much is rent in Wellington?
A 1-bedroom apartment in Wellington city center costs approximately $1,478/month. Outside the center, expect around $1,179/month.
Is Wellington expensive compared to New York?
Wellington's COL+Rent Index is 50.9 compared to New York's 100, meaning Wellington is about 49% cheaper than NYC overall.
What is the average grocery cost in Wellington?
Monthly groceries in Wellington cost approximately $404. The city's Groceries Index is 72.8 (NYC = 100).