Why Move to Auckland?
Auckland offers a more relaxed way of life than the UK, with outdoor activities acting as an important part of its culture. The city has a diverse culture and a strong job market, making it easy for British expats to adjust. However, housing costs and the general cost of living is more expensive in Auckland than the UK so you will need to factor this into your moving budget.
Best Places to Live in Auckland
If you want to live in Central Auckland, try Ponsonby for a good nightlife scene and trendy restaurants. Mount Eden, also in Central Auckland, boasts good schools and plenty of green spaces, making it ideal for families. Try Devonport in North Shore if you’re a beach lover looking for a community feel.
Cost of Living in Auckland
The overall cost of living in Auckland is 34.3% lower than in the UK (London). Grocery prices are almost 10% higher in Auckland than in the UK, but everything else remains more affordable.
The cost of living, including groceries and rent, is 7% cheaper than in Wellington and 9% more expensive than in Christchurch.
Below we compare the cost of living in Auckland with the UK by looking at London prices.
Cost of Living Comparison: Auckland vs. London
Item |
Auckland |
UK (London) |
Monthly rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in city centre |
$2,083.04 (£966.42)
|
£2,170.83
|
Price per m2 to buy apartment in city centre |
$14,324.13 (£6,645.61)
|
£13,403.96 |
Monthly salary after tax |
$5,989.93 (£2,779)
|
£3,732 |
3 course meal for 2 people, mid-range restaurant |
$125 (£57.99)
|
£80 |
1 litre of milk |
$3.08 (£1.43)
|
£1.33 |
1kg chicken fillets |
$16.82 (£7.81)
|
£7.41 |
Monthly travel pass |
$215 (£99.75)
|
£200 |
Utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) for 85m2 apartment |
$229.41 (£106.43)
|
£281.33 |
Monthly gym membership |
$58.96 (£27.36)
|
£45.33 |
Monthly private preschool |
$1,455.20 (£675.13)
|
£1,815.85 |
Data taken from Numbeo.
Property Prices & Rent in Auckland
Auckland has experienced fluctuations in the property market in recent years, but 2024 has shown signs of recovery. There are more property listings available and buying at auction is a popular method in Auckland. Renting a city centre apartment in Auckland is 55.5% cheaper than in the UK. It’s also 50.4% less expensive to buy property in Auckland.
Below is a comparison of rental and buying prices in Auckland compared to London.
Property Prices & Rent in Auckland vs. London
Item |
Auckland |
UK (London) |
Monthly rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in city centre |
$2,083.04 (£966.42)
|
£2,170.83 |
Monthly rent for 1-bedroom apartment outside of centre |
$1,795.50 (£833.01)
|
£1,630.26
|
Price per m2 to buy apartment in city centre |
$14,324.13 (£6,645.61)
|
£13,403.96
|
Price per m2 to buy apartment outside of city centre |
$12,130.77 (£5,628.01)
|
£7,956.99
|
Data taken from Numbeo.
Education in Auckland
Children in Auckland start primary school at age 5 and finish at age 12. Secondary school begins at age 13 up until 17. Similar to the UK’s catchment areas, New Zealand operates a zoning system where children attend school where they live. If you want your child to go to a school outside of your zone, you must apply for this. There’s a range of public, private and religious state schools on offer in Auckland.
Job Market in Auckland
Rate of unemployment has risen in Auckland in 2024, but the percentage of jobs filled is on the rise too. The job sectors that are in demand at the moment include human resources, accounting, and technology-related positions. Other popular sectors include healthcare, administration and remote roles.