Australia vs New Zealand: Which Is Cheaper?
Australia is the cheaper country overall — about 2% less than New Zealand, or roughly $2,180 versus $2,232 a month for a single person (population-weighted across 7 and 4 cities). A city-centre one-bedroom averages $1,313 in New Zealand against $2,005 in Australia. New Zealand rates higher on safety (85 vs 80/100). Internet is faster in New Zealand (214 vs 163 Mbps). Healthcare scores 76 vs 73/100, favouring Australia.
Australia vs New Zealand at a glance
| Metric | Australia | New Zealand |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of living / mo | $2,180 | $2,232 |
| Rent (1BR, centre) / mo | $2,005 | $1,313 |
| Safety | 80/100 | 85/100 |
| Internet | 163 Mbps | 214 Mbps |
| Healthcare | 76/100 | 73/100 |
| Walkability | 63/100 | 56/100 |
| English spoken | 97% | 97% |
| Avg temperature | 72°F | 63°F |
| Digital nomad visa | No | No |
Figures are population-weighted averages across 7 cities in Australia and 4 in New Zealand.
Cost range by country
In Australia, monthly costs run from Adelaide at $1,849 up to Gold Coast at $2,580.
In New Zealand, monthly costs run from Christchurch at $2,141 up to Queenstown at $2,578.
Australia vs New Zealand FAQ
Is Australia or New Zealand cheaper to live in?
Australia is cheaper — about $2,180 a month for a single person versus $2,232 — roughly 2% less.
Is Australia or New Zealand safer?
New Zealand scores higher on safety: 85/100 versus 80/100.
Is Australia or New Zealand better for retirement?
Australia is the stronger pick for retirees — both cheaper ($2,180/mo) and higher on healthcare (76/100).
Which is better for digital nomads, Australia or New Zealand?
New Zealand has faster internet (214 vs 163 Mbps), but Australia stretches a remote income further at $2,180/mo.
Is Australia or New Zealand better to visit?
Australia is the more budget-friendly trip at roughly $2,180 a month for day-to-day costs, while New Zealand edges it on safety (85/100). Both offer plenty of variety — 7 cities in Australia and 4 in New Zealand.
Which should you choose?
Australia and New Zealand are closely matched — Australia leads on a lower cost of living, better healthcare, better walkability, New Zealand on cheaper rent, higher safety, faster internet. Choose by the one or two factors that matter most to you.
Choose Australia for
- a lower cost of living
- better healthcare
- better walkability
Choose New Zealand for
- cheaper rent
- higher safety
- faster internet