Christchurch, on the South Island of New Zealand, is the largest city and an attractive destination that combines urban living with natural attractions. The city has something for everyone; it offers beautiful scenery, with parks and rivers, as well as the Southern Alps to the west, and provides high standards of urban living at a lower cost than similar cities in New Zealand, such as Auckland, which can be extremely costly. To help you establish your new life in Christchurch, there are many factors to consider before deciding to move, live, work, study, or retire there. Therefore, this guide provides information on the different types of living expenses you will encounter, along with the best ways to budget accordingly.
Overview: Christchurch as a Place to Live
Christchurch is a quiet city with plenty of things to see and do. The residents are friendly and welcoming to newcomers, and the city provides excellent public services. While Christchurch has a strong economy, it is still relatively small compared to other cities, so finding a job or housing can be challenging if you only work part-time. However, if you plan to settle in Christchurch long-term, you should have little trouble finding employment or an apartment that suits your needs.
On average, a single person living in Christchurch spends approximately NZ$1,980 a month (including rent). People who do not have to pay for rent would spend, on average, about NZ$770 a month. Families tend to incur higher costs in Christchurch than individuals do, but with good planning, it is an affordable city for both locals and newcomers.
1. Housing and Rent in Christchurch
Housing is generally the most significant monthly expense for many people living in Christchurch. The price of rental accommodation will vary based on the type of dwelling, its size, and its location. Apartments in the city centre will often be higher than those in a suburban area, and the same goes for larger units. Living near Riccarton or Merivale is pricier, but it provides you with access to better schools and amenities.
Monthly Rent (2026):
- 1-bedroom apartment (in the city centre): NZ$1,300–NZ$1,950
- 1-bedroom apartment (outside City Centre): NZ$1,190– NZ$1,700
- 3‑Bedroom Apartment (in City Centre): NZ$1,950– NZ$3,100
- 3‑Bedroom Apartment (outside City Centre): NZ$1,360– NZ$2,400
For those trying to purchase real estate, the median asking price for residential properties in Christchurch’s suburbs is approximately NZ$675K; however, it is much higher in high-demand areas such as Fendalton and St Albans. To save money, many residents choose to either share accommodation with others or live further from the CBD in outer suburbs like Hornby and Sockburn. The seasonal markets also affect the price of rental housing, as costs typically rise slightly during the months when school starts and during tourist seasons.
2. Household Utility Bills
Essential services like electricity, water, the internet, and telephones are examples of utility bills. The price changes based on how many services are used, how many people live in the home, and the weather. The winter climate in Christchurch tends to be very cold, which may increase electricity and heating costs. Generally, internet speeds are good in Christchurch, with many companies providing bundling discounts for internet service.
Standard Monthly Costs:
- Electricity and heating: NZ$75–NZ$260
- Water: NZ$15–NZ$22
- Internet (unlimited): NZ$48– NZ$95
- Mobile Phone Plan: NZ$35–NZ$70
To save money on utility bills, you can take some simple steps: use energy-efficient appliances, unplug items that are not in use, and set temperature controls appropriately during the winter months.
3. Groceries and Food Costs
The cost of groceries in Christchurch is generally reasonable. Supermarkets such as Countdown and Pak’n’Save, as well as farmers’ markets, are available for shopping. Fresh fruits and vegetables grown in season are relatively cheaper; however, imported items are more expensive.
Prices on average:
- Milk (1 L): NZ$1.60-NZ$4.60
- Bread (0.5 kg): NZ$1.90-NZ$6.60
- Eggs (12): NZ$6.00-NZ$8.80
- Chicken (1 kg): NZ$9-NZ$20
- Apples (1 kg): NZ$2.70-NZ$6.30
- Water (1.5 L): NZ$1.50-NZ$2.20
Eating Out:
- A meal at a mid-range restaurant costs NZ$20-NZ$38 per person.
- Coffee: NZ$4.50-NZ$8
Cooking at home is generally cheaper than buying food from outside. However, on occasion, dining out can be easily accommodated. For those who want to be budget-conscious, shopping at the local supermarkets during the weekly sales and buying items in bulk is the way to go. The average monthly grocery expenditure for a single person is between NZ$400 and NZ$700.
4. Transportation Costs
In Christchurch, there are public buses, taxis, and car options. Public transport is cheap, but bus frequency in some suburbs may be inconvenient. Driving is often the most convenient way to travel to and from work or to visit surrounding areas, such as Banks Peninsula.
Transport Expenses:
- One-way Bus Ticket: NZ$3
- Monthly Public Transport Pass: NZ$70–NZ$144
- Petrol (1 L): NZ$2.70–NZ$2.80
- Taxi Start: NZ $4.50
- Parking (City Centre): NZ$15–NZ$25/day
Before purchasing a vehicle, car owners will need to include in their budget the costs of regular maintenance and insurance, which range from approximately NZ$80 to NZ$150 per month. Additionally, walking and cycling, which are very popular in Christchurch, allow residents to save more on transportation expenses than using public transportation.
5. Healthcare and Insurance
When living in Christchurch, one of the main factors you will want to consider is how to gain access to quality health care. Most residents of Christchurch will rely on publicly funded health care, available to them at minimal or no cost. If you would rather not wait much for a specialist appointment or for elective surgery, private health insurance may offer quicker access to these services. Knowing what is typical regarding medical costs, available health insurance options, and local health care facilities will help you develop a budget and avoid unexpected health expenses that could affect your quality of life.
Typical Medical Costs:
- Private Doctor visit: NZ $30-$50
- Pharmacy/Cold Medicine: NZ $7-$15
Using preventive care, having standard appointments with doctors, and seeking community health services will help you keep overall health care costs balanced over time.
6. Childcare and Education
In Christchurch, the cost of raising a child can vary dramatically depending on how you choose to educate and care for them. Family budgets will depend on whether your child attends public or private school and whether they attend full-time or part-time daycare. Children’s expenses will also include uniforms, books, extracurricular activities, and other costs. Parents can plan their budgets around these costs to ensure they have sufficient money for quality education and childcare.
Typical Fees:
- Preschool/Kindergarten (monthly): NZ $600–$700+
- International primary school (annual): NZ $9,000+
Public education for residents of New Zealand is free; however, uniforms, stationery, and extracurricular activities can add to your budget. To save costs, many parents opt to have their children attend both public schools and part-time daycare.
Read More: Wellington Cost of Living: Rent, Bills, Transport & More
7. Entertainment and Leisure
Christchurch has a vibrant entertainment scene that is accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds. The city provides recreational opportunities ranging from scenic parks and rivers to cultural events, festivals, and sporting events where citizens can unwind and spend their spare time. Citizens also have many affordable or free activities available; therefore, families, students, and working individuals can maintain a healthy, productive life without spending much.
Typical Expenses:
- Cinema ticket: NZ $10–$15
- Gym membership: NZ$30–NZ$45/month
- Outdoor activities: Free or low-cost
Citizens of Christchurch have many additional entertainment options available to them through the city’s museums, community events, and seasonal festivals. Outdoor recreational activities such as hiking in the Port Hills or using Hagley Park, both of which are free and considered beneficial to health.
Monthly Budget Examples
By becoming more knowledgeable about how their expenses accumulate over a month, residents are better equipped to create an accurate budget and money management strategy for their finances. Since each person’s budget will differ based on many factors, such as lifestyle choices, family size, and housing options, knowing the average amounts you will incur regularly makes it much easier to estimate your overall cost of living in Christchurch. Below are examples of how individuals and families living in Christchurch may allocate their finances to live comfortably.
The following price list is indicative of what a month-to-month budget will look like for an individual living in Christchurch.
Single Individual (Moderate Living Style):
- Rent (1-bedroom): NZ$1,300
- Utilities + Internet: NZ $200
- Groceries and Dining: NZ$500
- Transport: NZ$100
- Miscellaneous: NZ$150
Total cost of living: ~NZ$2,250– NZ$2,500
Family of Four:
- Rent (3-bedroom): NZ$2,000
- Utilities + Internet: NZ$250
- Groceries: NZ$700
- Transport: NZ$200
- Childcare / School: NZ$600+
- Miscellaneous: NZ$300
Total Living Cost: ~NZ$4,000 – NZ$4,500
By creating budgets tailored to their financial situation, Christchurch residents can plan for their families and manage spending more effectively.
Christchurch Compared to Other New Zealand Cities
Christchurch is less expensive than Auckland or Wellington, especially when it comes to housing. Grocery prices and utility costs are similar; however, transportation costs are lower in Christchurch. The way Christchurch offers its residents affordable housing, high-quality lifestyle choices, and a suburban environment makes it a very attractive place for families, professionals, and college students.
Practical Tips to Save Money
Living in Christchurch does not need to create anxiety about your monthly expenses and other outgoings. Create simple strategies to manage your finances, and you can reduce your overall expenses quite substantially without sacrificing the lifestyle and recreational opportunities available to residents of this city or the natural beauty of the area. Small changes in your living arrangements, transportation, and shopping habits can significantly affect your ability to save and maintain a comfortable lifestyle. Planning can help residents maximise their savings while ensuring they don’t sacrifice comfort or convenience.
Some examples of using creativity and planning to manage the cost of living for Christchurch residents are as follows:
- Consider finding a shared living arrangement or exploring suburbs outside the main city centre to meet your housing needs.
- You can reduce the cost of owning a vehicle by using public transportation, walking, or cycling instead of owning a car.
- Consider shopping at discount grocery stores, farmers’ markets, and other similar establishments.
- Prefer bundled phone and internet services for convenience and cost savings.
- Compare nearby childcare options to identify the one that best suits you.
- Participating in outdoor activities offered in local parks and free community events.
Read More: Auckland Cost of Living: Rent, Bills, Transport & More
Conclusion
Christchurch is a wonderful city to live in, thanks to its affordability, comfort, and high-quality lifestyle. Compared to larger cities in New Zealand, it is much easier to manage your monthly expenses, such as housing and grocery shopping, as well as utilities and transport. Thus, Christchurch presents a viable option for all types of people, including singles, families, and students. If residents are aware of their monthly expenses and budget appropriately, they will be able to take full advantage of the benefits of city life without any financial stress.
There are several ways residents can lower their overall living expenses while still enjoying a comfortable lifestyle, including, but not limited to, innovative housing solutions, shopping at local markets, using public transport, and participating in free or low-cost leisure activities. In addition to these factors, Christchurch is also known for its beautiful surroundings, including parks, rivers, and close access to the mountains. Therefore, residents have many options for outdoor activities, wellness, and relaxation.
People living in Christchurch or who want to move there can get help from Moving Champs in New Zealand. Moving Champs in New Zealand provides moving services to guarantee a seamless and stress-free transition, as well as the safe and efficient transportation of your belongings. Moving to Christchurch is a beneficial choice for work, school, or family reasons. People who move to the city can enjoy its natural beauty, easily adjust to their new surroundings, and find a reliable moving company like Moving Champs in New Zealand, one of the trusted House Movers, to help make the move as smooth as possible if they have a good budget and a strong plan.
