Planning to move to Wellington? Here is a complete breakdown of the cost of living for expats in Wellington, New Zealand as of 2026. All figures are in EUR for easy cross-country comparison.
Monthly Cost Snapshot
Full Cost Breakdown
Compared to Country Average
| Category | Wellington | New Zealand Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR Rent (Centre) | €1,375 | €1,320 | +4% above avg |
| Total Single (Centre) | €2,090 | €2,053 | +2% above avg |
| Total Family (Centre) | €3,900 | €3,850 | +1% above avg |
| Groceries | €522 | €513 | +2% above avg |
| Transport | €125 | €123 | +2% above avg |
Get Your New Zealand Emigration Report
Personalised visa pathways, cost estimates, and action plan for New Zealand.
Get Full Report — €10Find your best visa pathway
Take our free 2-minute quiz and get matched with programmes that fit your profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to live in Wellington in 2026?
A single expat living in central Wellington should budget approximately €2,090 per month, covering rent, groceries, transport, utilities, healthcare, and entertainment. A family of four needs around €3,900/month.
How much is rent in Wellington for expats?
A 1-bedroom apartment in Wellington city centre costs around €1,375/month. Outside the centre, expect to pay approximately €990/month. A 3-bedroom apartment in the centre is around €3,025/month.
Is Wellington expensive compared to other cities in New Zealand?
Wellington has a cost index of 95% relative to the capital. There are 3 cities tracked in New Zealand for comparison.
Related: New Zealand Guide · New Zealand Salaries · New Zealand Cost of Living · Visa Comparison · Compare New Zealand · All Countries
Data sourced from numbeo. Last verified 2026-03-10.