Living in Auckland 2024 | Your Guide From a Local
Are you wondering what it’s like living in Auckland? I’ve got you covered!
As a New Zealander who has lived in Auckland for over 25 years, I know this city pretty much through and through. The best spots, the places to avoid, you name it. Having lived on 4 different continents, I’ve come to realise that we have it pretty great in Auckland.
It’s a place where the natural beauty of New Zealand meets the hustle and bustle of city life, creating a unique environment that’s full of opportunities and experiences.
But like any city, it has its ups and downs. In this post, I’m going to dive into the pros and cons of living in Auckland. Whether you’re considering a move or are just curious about what it’s like to live in New Zealand’s largest city, this guide will give you a well-rounded view of what to expect.
So, let’s explore what makes Auckland a great place to live—and what might make you think twice.
Is Auckland a good place to live?
Auckland, known as the “City of Sails,” is New Zealand’s most populated and biggest city. Home to almost 1.7 million people, it’s a diverse and vibrant place that makes up about a third of the country’s total population.
Auckland spans a large area of approximately 1,086 square kilometres, stretching across two harbours—Waitematā and Manukau—which means you’re never far away from the ocean. Despite being the most densely populated region in New Zealand, Auckland is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, from beautiful beaches to lush forests. You don’t have to travel far at all to be surrounded by nature.
So, is Auckland a good place to live? Absolutely!
With its mix of urban living and easy access to nature, Auckland offers a pretty great lifestyle. The city’s diverse culture, job opportunities, and beautiful surroundings make it a great place to call home. But just because I love it, doesn’t mean it’s for everyone!
Pros of living in Auckland
1. Natural Beauty
Auckland is a city where you’re never too far from nature. I actually never realised how much I took this for granted until I moved overseas and lived in Europe, it’s something I missed a lot.
Whether you’re into hiking, beach days, or just enjoying a walk along the waterfront, there are plenty of spots to get outside. With two harbours there are a ton of beaches in Auckland that are worth exploring, Piha Beach being one of the most popular ones, and who could forget a day trip to the stunning Waiheke Island vineyards?
Then you’ve got places like Mount Eden that offer some pretty awesome views. It’s the kind of place where you can enjoy both city life and the great outdoors without much effort.
2. Diverse Culture
Auckland is very multicultural and is definitely the most diverse city in New Zealand. Thanks to this, we have a lot of different cultural events and we also have incredible food. Our dairy is top notch and we are known for having great meat.
Generally speaking, I feel like we have a very underrated food scene, there’s a ton of great places to eat, whether it be restaurants, cafes or even takeaways, and we generally have very fresh, healthy food – another thing I learned to appreciate after moving away!
3. Job Opportunities
Auckland is New Zealand’s biggest job market, with opportunities in pretty much all fields. Many companies, including big multinational ones, have their head offices here. This means there are more job options and chances to grow your career compared to other parts of the country. Salaries are also higher in Auckland which is very much needed with the high cost of living.
4. Education
When it comes to education, Auckland has a lot to offer. It’s home to some of the country’s top schools and universities, like the University of Auckland. Whether you’re looking for good public schools for your kids or higher education opportunities, there are plenty of options.
This makes Auckland a solid choice for families who want to make sure their kids get a good education.
5. Work-Life Balance
One of the best things about living in Auckland is the focus on work-life balance. Even though it’s a busy city, there are plenty of ways to unwind. With beaches, parks, and outdoor activities close by, it’s easy to relax after work or on weekends.
We also have great annual leave policies, with companies offering a minimum of 4 weeks excluding sick days and 11 public holidays a year. I was pretty shocked when I moved to Canada and learnt that only two weeks of annual leave was the norm?!
Europe does pretty well on the annual leave front with a lot of businesses offering at least 5 weeks but I learnt in Amsterdam that if a public holiday falls on the weekend, tough luck because it doesn’t get observed on the next business day! The funny little culture shocks you get when you move away from your home town huh!
Cons of living in Auckland
1. High Cost of Living
Okay now for the cons, and the biggest one is that living in Auckland can be pricey. Housing is the biggest expense, with property prices and rents among the highest in the country.
On top of that, groceries, dining out, and general living costs tend to be more expensive compared to other parts of New Zealand. If you’re moving here, particularly from other cities within New Zealand, it’s important to budget carefully and be prepared for the higher cost of living.
2. Traffic and Commute Times
Traffic can be a real headache in Auckland, especially during rush hour. Although we probably aren’t classified as a “big city” in terms of population, when it comes to land mass it’s a different story. Auckland is big, you can literally drive for over an hour and a half in the opposite direction (without traffic) and still. be. in. Auckland. Technically Auckland is a super city, which is why it’s so big.
Once you add traffic into the mix, commuting times can be long, particularly if you’re travelling from the suburbs to the city centre. While public transport is available, it’s not always the most convenient option depending on where you live. The traffic situation is something to consider if you’re planning to drive regularly.
3. Unpredictable Weather
Auckland’s weather conditions are known for being unpredictable. You can experience all four seasons in one day, with sunshine, rain, and wind all making an appearance. While the climate is generally mild and it never snows in Auckland, the frequent changes (aka the rain) can catch you off guard, so it’s a good idea to always have an umbrella or a jacket on hand.
Another thing I’ve learnt from living elsewhere is that New Zealand’s temperatures are actually very stable and it’s normal for daytime temperatures to be fairly consistent in line with the seasons. Unlike places like Banff where it can be 5 degrees and snowing one day, then 24 degrees a few days later – I’m fully serious this is not an exaggeration!
4. Isolation
If you’re already living in New Zealand then this isn’t new to you but for any overseas readers thinking about making the move, it’s worth noting that Auckland is preeetty far from other major cities, not just in New Zealand, but globally.
If you love to travel internationally or have family and friends overseas, the long flights and travel times can be a downside. Plus, being on an island means that getting to other parts of the world isn’t as easy or as quick as it might be in other countries. Depending on your lifestyle, you’ll either love or hate this about New Zealand.
5. Housing Quality
Not all homes in Auckland are up to modern standards, especially older properties. Some houses lack proper insulation, which can make them cold in winter and hard to heat.
This is something to watch out for if you’re renting or buying a home, as it can add to your living costs if you need to make improvements or deal with higher heating bills.
Best places to live in Auckland
Auckland has a diverse range of suburbs, each with its own unique vibe and appeal. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly area, a trendy spot close to the city or something closer to one of the stunning Auckland beaches, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the best suburbs in Auckland to consider for your move:
1. Ponsonby
- Why It’s Great: Ponsonby is one of Auckland’s trendiest suburbs, known for its vibrant cafe and restaurant scene, boutique shops, and lively nightlife. It’s close to the city centre, making it a popular choice for young professionals who want to be near the action.
2. Devonport
- Why It’s Great: Devonport offers a charming village vibe with stunning views of the Auckland skyline. Located just a short ferry ride from the city, it’s perfect for those who want a quieter, seaside lifestyle while still being close to the CBD. The area is known for its historic homes, great schools, and laid-back atmosphere.
3. Remuera
- Why It’s Great: Remuera is a prestigious, family-friendly suburb with beautiful tree-lined streets and large homes. It’s close to top schools, parks, and shopping centres, making it a popular choice for families. The area is also well-connected to the city, with easy access to public transport.
4. Takapuna
- Why It’s Great: Takapuna is a vibrant beachside suburb on the North Shore, offering a mix of urban convenience and coastal living. It has great cafes, restaurants, and shops, as well as a nice beach that’s perfect for swimming and relaxing. It’s an ideal spot for those who want to enjoy the best of both worlds.
5. Mount Eden
- Why It’s Great: Mount Eden is known for its iconic volcanic cone, which offers panoramic views of Auckland. The suburb itself is a mix of historic charm and modern convenience, with great cafes, restaurants, and parks. It’s popular with both families and professionals due to its central location and easy access to the city.
6. Epsom
- Why It’s Great: Epsom is another family-friendly suburb, known for its spacious homes and proximity to some of Auckland’s best schools. It’s close to parks like Cornwall Park and the Auckland Domain, offering plenty of green space for outdoor activities. Epsom is also well-located, with good public transport links to the city.
7. Meadowbank
- Why It’s Great: Meadowbank is a peaceful, family-oriented suburb located close to the city. It offers a mix of quality schools, parks, and a strong sense of community. The area is ideal for families who want a quiet, suburban lifestyle with easy access to Auckland’s city centre and surrounding amenities.
8. Mission Bay/Kohimarama
- Why It’s Great: Mission Bay and Kohimarama are neighbouring suburbs known for their beautiful beachfront and relaxed atmosphere. Both areas offer stunning views of the Hauraki Gulf, and you can often find locals enjoying the beach or dining at one of the many cafes and restaurants. It’s a great spot for those who love the beach lifestyle but still want to be close to the city.
St Heliers also tends to get lumped in with these two suburbs but I haven’t included it here since it’s a bit further away from the city and public transport options aren’t great. It is still a lovely area with great homes but I’d say it’s better suited for retirees.
Auckland’s Public Transport vs. Car Ownership
When it comes to getting around Auckland, the choice between relying on public transport or owning a car very much depends on your lifestyle and where you live in the city. Auckland’s public transport system has improved in recent years, with a network of buses, trains, and ferries.
Although it’s far from perfect and the network is nowhere near as extensive as other large cities in the world, it is getting easier to commute without a car. If you live in central or well-connected suburbs like Ponsonby or Mount Eden you can definitely get by using public transport most of the time.
Public Transport
- Pros:
Auckland’s bus services are pretty good, covering most of the city and its suburbs. The train network is also convenient for those living along the main lines, offering a faster way to get into the city centre during peak times.
Ferries provide a scenic and efficient way to travel if you’re in coastal areas like Devonport or Hobsonville. Public transport can save you a lot of money on petrol, parking and car maintenance. - Cons:
While public transport is a viable option, it can be less convenient in more remote suburbs or during off-peak hours when services are less frequent. Commuting times can also be longer compared to driving, especially if you need to make multiple transfers.
Car Ownership
- Pros:
Owning a car gives you the freedom to travel wherever and whenever you want, which is particularly useful if you live in less accessible areas or enjoy weekend getaways. Having a car can also be more convenient for grocery shopping, school runs, and other daily tasks. If you live in Auckland, it’s very common to own a car! - Cons:
However of course it comes with its downsides. Traffic congestion, especially during rush hour, can be a major headache. Parking in the city can be expensive and difficult to find. Plus, there are the costs of petrol, maintenance, and insurance to consider.
Can You Live in Auckland Without a Car?
Yes, you can live in Auckland without a car, especially if you’re based in central suburbs or areas with good public transport links. Many people in Auckland get by using buses, trains, and ferries, along with walking and cycling. For those who don’t commute daily, ride-sharing services like Uber are also widely available and can be a convenient option.
That said, if you live in a suburb that isn’t well-served by public transport or if you enjoy exploring the more remote parts of Auckland and beyond, having a car might make life easier. Ultimately, whether you can live without a car in Auckland depends on your lifestyle, where you live, and how much you value the convenience of driving versus the costs and challenges that come with it.
As I mentioned, it’s very common for Aucklanders to own a car and personally I couldn’t imagine living in Auckland without one but that’s what I’ve grown up with and what I’m used to so that’s my personal preference.
FAQ: Is Auckland a good place to live?
What salary do you need to live comfortably in Auckland?
To live comfortably in Auckland, a single person typically needs to earn around NZD $70,000 to $100,000 per year, depending on lifestyle and housing choices. This estimate covers rent, utilities, groceries, transport, and some discretionary spending.
For a family, the required income would be higher, especially if there are additional costs like childcare, education, and healthcare.
Is it expensive to live in Auckland?
Yes, Auckland is considered one of the more expensive cities to live in New Zealand. Housing costs, both for renting and buying, are among the highest in the country. Groceries, dining out, and other living expenses are also generally higher compared to other regions in New Zealand. However, salaries in Auckland tend to be higher as well, which can offset some of the costs.
On a global scale, Auckland doesn’t rank as high as places like New York, Sydney, Paris, London, Tokyo and LA – just to name a few, in terms of the cost of living so whether you find Auckland expensive or not will really depend on where you’re moving from.
What is the average rent in Auckland?
As of 2024, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the centre of Auckland city is around NZD $500 to $600 per week. In the suburbs, you might find one-bedroom rentals ranging from NZD $400 to $550 per week.
For a three-bedroom house, expect to pay between NZD $650 and $900 per week, depending on the suburb and the property’s condition. Location is a big factor and since Auckland is a large city, rent prices can vary quite a bit so for a more accurate indication, best to do some research on the suburb you’re planning to live in.
Which is more expensive, Canada or New Zealand?
The cost of living comparison between Canada and New Zealand can vary depending on the specific city or region you’re comparing. I’ve lived in both countries and can definitely say something things are more expensive in Canada than they are in New Zealand and vice versa.
Generally speaking, however, living in Auckland can be more expensive than in many Canadian cities, particularly in terms of housing costs. However, the overall cost of living, including groceries, transport, and healthcare, may be comparable or slightly lower in New Zealand.
It’s worth noting that large Canadian cities like Vancouver or Toronto can have similar or even higher costs of living compared to Auckland. I’ve lived on Vancouver Island in Victoria and Nanaimo which are generally a bit cheaper than the mainland.
Final thoughts: Living in Auckland Pros and Cons
Living in Auckland offers a mix of vibrant city life, stunning natural beauty, and diverse cultural experiences. Whether you’re drawn to its job opportunities, top-notch education, or the chance to enjoy a great work-life balance, Auckland has a lot to offer. However, like any city, it also comes with its challenges, such as the high cost of living and unpredictable weather.
Choosing where to live in Auckland depends on your personal preferences, whether you want to be close to the action in the city, enjoy a quieter suburban lifestyle, or live by the beach. With so many great suburbs to choose from, there’s something for everyone in Auckland.
Whether you’re considering a move to Auckland or just curious about what it’s like to live here, I hope this guide has given you a clearer picture of the pros and cons of life in New Zealand’s largest city. Personally I think Auckland life is pretty great!
