Cost Comparison 2025

AucklandvsSingapore

New Zealand
Singapore

Overall

💰

+21.8%

Auckland is 21.8%more expensive

Rent

🏠

+38.5%

Housing is 38.5% higher

Dining

🍽️

+2.6%

Restaurants 2.6% pricier

Groceries

🛒

+6.3%

Food shopping 6.3% more

Comparing the cost of living between Auckland, New Zealand and Singapore, Singapore reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Auckland is more expensive than Singapore by approximately 21.8%. This comparison covers essential living expenses including housing, food, transportation, and utilities, providing you with a complete picture of what to expect financially in each city.

Key Cost Differences

Housing costs in Auckland are lower than in Singapore by 28%. A one-bedroom apartment in Auckland's city center costs around NZ$2,400, while the same in Singapore is approximately SGD 3,500.

Dining out in Auckland costs about the same compared to Singapore. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs NZ$25 in Auckland versus SGD 15 in Singapore.

Public transportation in Auckland is more expensive, with monthly passes at NZ$215 compared to SGD 120 in Singapore.

Purchasing power in Singapore is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Auckland.

Monthly Budget Breakdown

When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Auckland can expect to spend approximately NZ$893 per month (excluding rent), while in Singapore, the same lifestyle would cost around SGD 777. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about NZ$3,126 monthly in Auckland versus SGD 2,720 in Singapore. These estimates include groceries, dining out, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, providing a realistic picture of day-to-day living costs in each city.

Detailed Cost Comparison

Item
Auckland, New Zealand
Singapore, Singapore

🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)

1BR City Center
NZ$2,400
SGD 3,500
1BR Outside Center
NZ$1,900
SGD 2,500
3BR City Center
NZ$4,200
SGD 7,000

🍽️ Food & Dining

Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant
NZ$25
SGD 15
Meal for 2, Mid-range Restaurant
NZ$120
SGD 100
Cappuccino
NZ$6
SGD 6
Domestic Beer (0.5L)
NZ$12
SGD 10

🛒 Groceries

Milk (1L)
NZ$3
SGD 3
Bread (500g)
NZ$3
SGD 3
Eggs (12)
NZ$6
SGD 4
Cheese (1kg)
NZ$13
SGD 20

🚌 Transportation

One-way Ticket
NZ$4
SGD 2
Monthly Pass
NZ$215
SGD 120
Taxi Start
NZ$5
SGD 4
Gasoline (1L)
NZ$3
SGD 3

💡 Utilities & Internet

Basic Utilities (85m²)
NZ$170
SGD 200
Internet (60 Mbps)
NZ$85
SGD 50
Mobile Minute
NZ$0
SGD 0

Tips for Moving Between Cities

For those considering a move from Auckland to Singapore, the cost savings can be substantial, particularly in housing and daily expenses. However, it's important to factor in salary differences and job opportunities. Conversely, moving from Singapore to Auckland requires careful financial planning. Consider negotiating salary adjustments that reflect the higher cost of living, and research neighborhoods outside the city center for more affordable housing options while maintaining reasonable commute times.

Quality of Life Indices

Auckland

Cost of Living Index78
Rent Index65
Purchasing Power Index88

Singapore

Cost of Living Index95
Rent Index90
Purchasing Power Index100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Auckland more expensive than Singapore?

Yes, Auckland is approximately 21.8% more expensive than Singapore overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.

How much salary do I need in Auckland compared to Singapore?

To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.2x of your Singapore salary when living in Auckland. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Singapore, you'd need about $60,897 in Auckland for a comparable lifestyle.

What are the biggest cost differences between Auckland and Singapore?

The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 28%, making it a major factor in your budget planning. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.

Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?

Singapore offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Singapore provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Auckland if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Singapore for better value.

What's a reasonable monthly budget for Auckland vs Singapore?

In Auckland, a single person needs approximately NZ$2,793 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about NZ$6,326. In Singapore, these figures are SGD 3,277 for singles and SGD 7,220 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.

The cost of living comparison between Auckland and Singapore in 2025 shows significant differences across various expense categories. Whether you're planning a relocation for work, considering retirement options, or simply curious about living costs, understanding these differences is crucial for making informed financial decisions.

Need to calculate salary equivalence?

Find out how much you need to earn in Singapore to maintain your lifestyle from Auckland

Calculate Salary Equivalence

Last updated: 2025-01-15 • Data sourced from multiple providers