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Wellington, New Zealand
Capital City

Follows New Zealand Residency Rules. Check Digital Nomad & Retiree Pathways →
Est. Monthly Cost (1 Person)
$3,200
Retiree Score
89.0
Safety Index
72.0
Healthcare
15 facilities

With a population of just 73,305, Wellington is a compact city that packs a punch when it comes to cost of living. Housing prices are sky-high, with the median house costing over $1 million. And the weather is notoriously windy, with the city ranking as the world's windiest capital. Still, Wellington's status as New Zealand's cultural and political center means it attracts young professionals drawn to its thriving arts scene and proximity to government jobs. But the bureaucracy can be a persistent headache, and the risk of earthquakes is ever-present. Overall, Wellington is best suited for those who prioritize a lively urban lifestyle over affordability or creature comforts.

Can I afford Wellington?

$

Wellington

You would need

-200/mo

Savings Rate0%

Monthly Costs

Rent $1,850
Living (Country Average Adjusted)$1,350

Attractiveness Scores

FIRE Score
(i)
0/100
Retiree Score
(i)
89/100
Lifestyle Score
(i)
50/100
💻Nomad Score
(i)
50/100
Meets New Zealand Digital Nomad Visa Income Rule.
72
Safety
15
Healthcare
100
Walkability
100
Nomad

Grocery Basket

Milk (1L) *$2
Bread (loaf) *$2
Eggs (12) *$6
Rice (1kg) *$1
Chicken (1kg) *$4

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Eating Out

Meal (Inexpensive) *$20
Meal (Mid-range) *$30
Cappuccino *$4
Water (0.33L) *$2

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Utilities & Lifestyle

Utilities (mo) *$146
Mobile Plan (mo) *$24
Gym (mo) *$41
Cinema Ticket *$12

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Housing

1BR Center (mo) $1,110
1BR Outside (mo) *$571
3BR Center (mo) $1,920
3BR Outside (mo) *$907

* Estimated based on regional averages.

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Widely Spoken
Expat Community
Large & Active
Top Neighborhoods
Thorndon, Oriental Bay, Mt Victoria
Best For
professionals, artists, families

Expat Life Notes

The coolest little capital in the world. Safe, artistic, and highly international with an incredible coffee culture.

Pros

  • ✓ Incredible quality of life
  • ✓ Highly walkable
  • ✓ Vibrant arts scene

Cons

  • ✗ Windy climate
  • ✗ Expensive housing
  • ✗ Isolated geographically

🌐 Infrastructure & Lifestyle

Avg Internet
—
Temperature
—
Annual Rainfall
1019 mm
Coworking Spaces
—
Best Months to Visit
Jan, Feb, Mar, Dec

Also Consider

Manukau, New ZealandWaiheke Island, New ZealandSainte-Foy, CanadaLiving in Sainte-Foy, Canada offers suburban convenience near Quebec City with university energy and winter resilience. Lower costs than tourist zones.Squamish, CanadaLiving in Squamish, Canada offers outdoor adventure and proximity to Vancouver, but high rents make it a pricey FIRE option despite its natural appeal.

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Wellington

Click any question to expand the answer.

Wellington has a population of approximately 73,305 people.

A single person can expect to spend around $4,625 per month in Wellington, including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $1850/month.

The nearest airport to Wellington is WLG, approximately 5km away.

Wellington is considered relatively safe, with a safety index of 72.0. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.

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