Queenstown vs Wellington: Cost of Living Compared
Wellington is roughly 14% cheaper overall — about $2,265 versus $2,578 per month for a single person. A city-centre one-bedroom averages $1,255 in Wellington against $1,560 in Queenstown. Queenstown scores higher on safety (92 vs 82/100). Internet is faster in Wellington (216 vs 130 Mbps).
City Comparer
QueenstownNew Zealand
WellingtonNew Zealand
QueenstownWellington
Daily Cost$86/day$76/day
Monthly Cost$2,578$2,265
Rent$400$1,100
Safety9282
Healthcare6585
Air Quality9992
Tourist Safety9285
Disaster Risk2835
Winter High45°F52°F
Summer High75°F68°F
Sunny Days307245
Rainy Days155125
Nightlife3558
Food7278
Culture5582
Coffee Culture5560
Veg Friendly7272
Late Night2/62/6
Cleanliness4278
Green Spaces4082
Hiking9878
Beaches4542
Surfing525
Skiing015
Diving1015
Yoga3055
Running3565
Sports7072
Bikeability1042
Internet130 Mbps216 Mbps
Transit2552
Walkability5572
Cowork Spaces832
Power Reliability10098
Queenstown vs Wellington FAQ
Is Queenstown or Wellington cheaper to live in?
Wellington is cheaper — about $2,265 per month versus $2,578, a difference of roughly 14%.
Is Queenstown or Wellington safer?
Queenstown scores higher: 92/100 versus 82/100.
Which has faster internet, Queenstown or Wellington?
Wellington — median download speeds are 216 Mbps versus 130 Mbps.
Full city guides
Cost of living in Queenstown →
Cost of living in Wellington →