Living in Auckland means being surrounded by stunning coastal landscapes, vibrant culture, and endless opportunities for adventure. Known as the City of Sails or Tāmaki Makaurau in Te Reo Māori, it’s a place that offers plenty for the 1.7 million people who live in it.
Having called this city home for over a decade, I’ve come to appreciate both its charm and challenges. But what’s it really like to live here day to day? Whether you’re considering moving to Auckland or simply curious about life in New Zealand’s largest city, this guide covers everything from lifestyle to affordability.
This post may contain affiliate links. Your purchase through these links supports me with a commission, at no added expense to you.
- THE EVERYDAY RHYTHM OF AUCKLAND
- AUCKLAND’S SUBURBS: BEST AREAS TO LIVE IN AUCKLAND
- AUCKLANDS SOCIAL SCENE
- WEATHER AND LIFESTYLE: AUCKLAND’S FOUR SEASONS IN A DAY
- THE REAL COST OF LIVING IN AUCKLAND
- GETTING AROUND AUCKLAND
- WORK-LIFE BALANCE
- OUTDOOR ADVENTURES: BEACHES AND HIKING
- AUCKLAND AS A LAUNCHPAD FOR TRAVEL
- FINAL THOUGHTS: IS AUCKLAND THE RIGHT FIT FOR YOU?
- SUMMARY
- FAQs
THE EVERYDAY RHYTHM OF AUCKLAND
The everyday rhythm of Auckland isn’t too different from other big cities you see around the world. Most people work during the week and, depending on the season, spend their weekends getting out and about.
We’re definitely an active city, and ones that like our coffee, so you’ll often see Aucklanders out for a run, hitting the trails, or enjoying one of the many specialty cafes. Nightlife here isn’t exactly world-class, but we make up for it with an incredible food scene and great restaurants. Auckland is full of different cuisines, perfect for every tastebud.
Getting around, though? That’s a different story. Traffic can be rough, and while public transport exists, it’s not the most reliable compared to other major cities. It’s one of those things you learn to work around and is one of the downsides of living in this city.
But what I can say is that the everyday rhythm is pretty positive. You can rely on the fact that Auckland has both a nice balance of city energy and coastal chill.
AUCKLAND’S SUBURBS: BEST AREAS TO LIVE IN AUCKLAND
Unlike some centralised cities, Auckland is wide-spread meaning where you live will have a big impact on your lifestyle.
The great thing about Auckland is that there are so many places to choose from. The West Coast is perfect for nature lovers, with rugged black sand beaches and scenic hiking trails. South Auckland offers more affordable housing and a strong sense of community, while East Auckland is known for its picturesque bays and family-friendly vibe.
For specific suburbs, if you’re drawn to vibrant city life, areas like Ponsonby, Grey Lynn, and the Viaduct are ideal. They provide an energetic atmosphere with great dining, buzzing nightlife, and most of your favourite restaurants are within walking distance. For a more suburban feel, Mount Eden, Mount Wellington, and Ellerslie are a little more relaxed, with great local cafes, and easy access to parks. Meanwhile, prestigious suburbs like Remuera and Epsom boast upscale living with top schools, and a quieter atmosphere. And lastly, for those who crave a coastal lifestyle, Mission Bay, Point Chevalier, Te Atatū Peninsula, and Takapuna are popular choices for their beautiful waterfront views.
These are only a selection of suburbs to consider and across all of these housing costs really do vary. For the most part though, you’ll find central suburbs and coastal areas typically demand higher prices.
AUCKLANDS SOCIAL SCENE
Auckland has an exciting social scene, with events, festivals, and nightlife catering to all interests. The city hosts cultural festivals, music concerts, and sporting events year-round but summer in particular you’ll find events happening most weekends.
Dining out is also a big part of life here, with a mix of international cuisine and top-rated local restaurants. Whenever I’m stuck for ideas I’ll head over to websites like Heart of the City or Discover Auckland. Here you can find the most updated info on all the upcoming events and activities.
WEATHER AND LIFESTYLE: AUCKLAND’S FOUR SEASONS IN A DAY
Auckland’s weather is famously unpredictable. You can experience all four seasons within an hour. However, it is true in that you can’t beat a Kiwi summer. Our summers are warm, usually with a light breeze–ideal for beach days, water sports and many other outdoor activities.
As the weather cools, activities shift slightly—museum visits, indoor sports, and cozy cafe brunches become the go-to. Our winter specifically, is mild compared to many other cities, but it does tend to be damp, with plenty of grey, drizzly days that can make the city feel a little dreary. Spring and autumn offer the most variation, where you’ll often experience sunshine, rain, and wind in a single day. However, on a nice day in these seasons we can have the most beautiful flora and fauna. This is when you want to make sure to visit the botanical gardens and local parks.
THE REAL COST OF LIVING IN AUCKLAND
There’s no sugarcoating it—living in Auckland is expensive. Rent, groceries, and transportation can add up quickly. However, salaries in the city are competitive and if chosen well, can reflect the market.
There are a few major things that will take a chunk of your pay check–the first being rent. If you’re living solo in an apartment it’ll be quite the difference to flatting, which is much more affordable. Then, there’s groceries. These also aren’t cheap either, but I can recommend shopping at local markets and buying in season can make a difference. Transport is another, as getting around can add up. I can speak from experience in that owning a car is convenient but expensive with petrol and parking. However, public transport is the cheaper (if sometimes frustrating) alternative. Eating out can be great, but pricy too. However, there are plenty of tasty and cheap eats in Auckland. Cooking at home is also a very normal thing for Aucklanders. Even staying active will come at a price but as gym memberships vary you are bound to find an option that suits you. There’s also the best alternative–with so many beaches, parks, and hiking trails, there are plenty of options to stay fit for free.
All in all, Auckland isn’t the most affordable place to live, but with a little planning, it’s absolutely worth it.
GETTING AROUND AUCKLAND
Auckland’s public transport system includes buses, trains, and ferries, but most locals rely on cars. I can say from experience that traffic congestion is a challenge, especially during peak hours. Weekdays are particularly bad.
The city is improving its cycling infrastructure and expanding public transport services to ease congestion but it will be a while before we see changes. That’s why choosing the right place to live is key—after all, the last thing you want is to spend your days stuck in traffic.
WORK-LIFE BALANCE
Work-life balance is definitely valued in Auckland, and New Zealand as a whole. Even if you work full time in an office it’s common for people to have after work activities planned. Anything from heading to the beach, to taking advantage of the many hiking trails, or enjoy a relaxed dinner with friends. While long commutes can be a downside, many Aucklanders make it work by living near their workplace.
There are also plenty of opportunities for remote work, too. Maybe not full time but part time is certainly common.
OUTDOOR ADVENTURES: BEACHES AND HIKING
One of Auckland’s biggest draw cards is its easy access to nature. The North Shore and East Coast beaches are perfect for swimming, paddle boarding, and sunbathing.
The West Coast which is one of my favourite places in Auckland, features dramatic black sand beaches like Piha and Karekare, ideal for surfing, hiking and photography. People who want to explore the coastline will love tracks like Mercer Bay Loop and the Omanawanui Track, which offer breathtaking coastal views.
AUCKLAND AS A LAUNCHPAD FOR TRAVEL
One of the best things about living in Auckland is its accessibility to other destinations. The city serves as a gateway to Northland, with its pristine beaches and ancient forests. Weekend road trips to Coromandel, Rotorua, or Taupō are easy and popular among locals.
For international travel, Auckland Airport is the busiest in New Zealand. Direct flights connect Auckland to major global cities, making it super convenient for those who love to travel on a regular basis. It also means that travelling to other ultimate New Zealand destinations are just a short flight away, too.
Essentially, living in Auckland means absolute ease to explore other beautiful corners of Aotearoa and the world.
FINAL THOUGHTS: IS AUCKLAND THE RIGHT FIT FOR YOU?
Auckland is a city of contrasts. It’s where modern city meets breathtaking natural beauty, where opportunities are aplenty, but the cost of living can be high. For those who thrive on adventure, cultural diversity, and easy access to stunning landscapes, Auckland is an incredible place to live. But it’s not without its challenges.
If you love the outdoors, the ability to escape to beaches, hiking trails, and scenic coastal spots within minutes is unbeatable. The city’s vibrant food scene, cultural festivals, and strong job market make it an exciting place to be. However, if affordability and a seamless public transport system are high on your priority list, Auckland might test your patience. Housing prices are steep, and getting around can be a hassle, especially if you rely on buses and trains.
Ultimately, the best way to know if Auckland is the right fit for you is to weigh up what matters most in your lifestyle. If you’re willing to embrace its quirks, find ways to make your budget work, and make the most of everything this city offers—Auckland definitely has a way of winning you over.
SUMMARY
In this post, I’ve shared a local’s perspective into what it’s like living in Auckland, covering daily life, cost of living, weather, and community. Auckland offers a unique mix of urban living and natural beauty, making it an exciting place to call home.
I hope by reading this guide, it has given you some insight on what it’s like living in Auckland day to day. Whether you’re considering moving to Auckland or simply curious about life in New Zealand’s largest city, I can confidently say that despite the high cost of living and traffic, the city’s vibrant culture, job opportunities, and easy access to nature make it a great place to live.
For more insider travel tips on New Zealand, and around the world, take a quick look at our comprehensive travel guides.
FAQs
Is Auckland a good place to live in?
Auckland is a fantastic place to live if you enjoy a mix of city life and outdoor adventure. It offers a strong job market, diverse cultural experiences, and easy access to stunning beaches and hiking trails. While the cost of living is high, many find the lifestyle, opportunities, and natural beauty worth it.
What salary do you need to live comfortably in Auckland?
The salary needed for a comfortable life in Auckland depends on your lifestyle. If you’re renting solo in the city, you’ll need a higher income than if you’re flatting or living further out. A well-paying job can definitely make Auckland much more manageable.
Which area is best to live in Auckland?
The best area depends on your lifestyle and to be honest, your age. Ponsonby and the Viaduct offer a vibrant city experience, while Mount Eden and Ellerslie provide a more suburban feel. If you want to be near the beach, Mission Bay and Takapuna are great choices, while the West Coast is perfect for nature lovers.
Is Auckland expensive to live in?
Yes, Auckland is one of the most expensive places to live in New Zealand. Rent, groceries, and transport costs add up quickly, but there are ways to cut costs, like flatting, shopping at local markets, and using public transport. While the high cost of living can be a challenge, the quality of life makes it worth it for many.