$85k in New Zealand: Auckland's Pace vs. Wellington's Vibe

An $85,000 salary in Aotearoa offers a great lifestyle, but the cost of living in its two major cities tells a different story.

A view of Queenstown and the surrounding mountains in New Zealand.

New Zealand is famous for its stunning landscapes and laid-back culture. Earning a salary of $85,000 NZD puts you in a comfortable position to enjoy it all. Unlike countries with state or provincial taxes, New Zealand has a centralized tax system, meaning your take-home pay will be the same regardless of where you live.

The real difference, however, comes from the cost of living. Let's compare the country's largest city, Auckland, with its cool and compact capital, Wellington.

Annual Costs on an $85k Salary
While take-home pay is identical, housing costs create a clear divide.

The City of Sails vs. The Coolest Little Capital

After taxes and the ACC levy, an $85,000 salary nets you approximately **$65,500**, or about **$5,450 a month**. In **Auckland**, a city known for its competitive housing market, you can expect to pay around $2,400 per month for rent, eating up a significant 44% of your net income. This leaves you with money to enjoy the vibrant food scene and beautiful harbours, but saving can be a challenge.

In **Wellington**, things are a bit more relaxed. The "coolest little capital in the world" offers a slightly more affordable lifestyle. Average rent is closer to $2,200 a month, giving you an extra $200 in your pocket. While it may not seem like much, this adds up over a year and contributes to a less financially-strained experience. Wellington's compact, walkable nature also means you might save on transportation costs, further boosting your disposable income to enjoy its thriving arts, coffee, and craft beer scene.