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Dunedin, New Zealand
Capital City

Follows New Zealand Residency Rules. Check Digital Nomad & Retiree Pathways →
Est. Monthly Cost (1 Person)
$2,313
Retiree Score
77.0
Safety Index
—
Healthcare
12 facilities

The population of 132,800 sounds sizable, but Dunedin's remote location and cool, cloudy climate are a persistent headache. With a median income of just $33,500 and over 9,800 people earning over $100,000, the income disparity is stark. And while the city boasts a vibrant arts scene and UNESCO City of Literature status, the bureaucracy can be a real drag. Overall, Dunedin's charms may appeal more to retirees and outdoorsy types than young professionals seeking big-city amenities.

Can I afford Dunedin?

$

Dunedin

You could save

687/mo

Savings Rate23%

Monthly Costs

Rent $1,338
Living (Country Average Adjusted)$975

Attractiveness Scores

FIRE Score
(i)
23/100
Retiree Score
(i)
77/100
Lifestyle Score
(i)
50/100
💻Nomad Score
(i)
50/100
Meets New Zealand Digital Nomad Visa Income Rule.
—
Safety
12
Healthcare
100
Walkability
100
Nomad

Grocery Basket

Milk (1L) $3
Bread (loaf) *$2
Eggs (12) $11
Rice (1kg) *$1
Chicken (1kg) *$4

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Eating Out

Meal (Inexpensive) *$25
Meal (Mid-range) $158
Cappuccino $6
Water (0.33L) *$4

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Utilities & Lifestyle

Utilities (mo) $169
Mobile Plan (mo) $53
Gym (mo) *$93
Cinema Ticket $17

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Housing

1BR Center (mo) $803
1BR Outside (mo) *$571
3BR Center (mo) $1,248
3BR Outside (mo) *$907

* Estimated based on regional averages.

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Widely Spoken
Expat Community
Large & Active
Top Neighborhoods
Maori Hill, Roslyn, Saint Clair
Best For
academics, students, families

Expat Life Notes

A historic university city with a distinct Scottish heritage. It is safe, intellectual, and surrounded by amazing wildlife.

Pros

  • ✓ Vibrant student energy
  • ✓ Rich history and architecture
  • ✓ Low crime

Cons

  • ✗ Cold and damp winters
  • ✗ Very hilly
  • ✗ Expensive heating costs

🌐 Infrastructure & Lifestyle

Avg Internet
—
Temperature
—
Annual Rainfall
936 mm
Coworking Spaces
—
Best Months to Visit
May, Jun, Jul, Aug

Also Consider

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Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Dunedin

Click any question to expand the answer.

Dunedin has a population of approximately 55,256 people.

A single person can expect to spend around $3,346 per month in Dunedin, including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $1338/month.

The nearest airport to Dunedin is ZQN, approximately 167km away.

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