Cost of living in Canterbury
Canterbury, located in New Zealand, offers a unique blend of urban and rural living. Understanding the cost of living in this region is crucial for both current residents and those considering a move.
This guide provides a detailed breakdown of expenses in Canterbury, covering essential categories such as dining, groceries, transportation, housing, and utilities.
Cost of Living Summary
Dining and Restaurants
- Inexpensive Restaurant Meal - A meal at a casual restaurant will typically cost $10.49 on average, with a range between $8.74 and $14.57.
- Mid-Range Restaurant (Three-Course Meal for Two) - For a more upscale dining experience, expect to pay around $64.13, with prices ranging from $52.47 to $174.9.
- Fast Food (e.g., McDonald's) - A McMeal or equivalent combo meal averages $8.74, with a range between $8.16 and $11.66.
- Beverages (e.g., Domestic Beer, Imported Beer, Cappuccino, Coke/Pepsi) - Domestic beer ranges from $2.91 to $10.49, imported beer $5.25 to $8.74, cappuccino $2.33 to $7, and Coke/Pepsi $1.46 to $2.91.
Grocery Prices
- Milk - Milk is priced between $1.17 and $2.91 per liter, averaging $1.17.
- Bread (Loaf of Fresh White Bread) - A loaf of fresh white bread costs between $1.17 and $3.5, with an average price of $1.93.
- Eggs (Dozen) - A dozen eggs range from $2.31 to $6.3, averaging $5.17.
- Fruits (e.g., Apples, Oranges) - Apples cost $1.17 to $3.5 per kg, while oranges range from $2.33 to $3.79 per kg.
- Vegetables (e.g., Potatoes, Lettuce) - Potatoes are priced between $1.17 and $4.08 per kg, and lettuce costs $0.58 to $3.21 per head.
Transportation
- Public Transport (One-Way Ticket) - A one-way local transport ticket costs $0.87.
- Fuel (Gasoline) - Gasoline is priced between $1.54 and $1.64 per liter.
- Taxi Fares - Taxi fares start at $5.83, with a cost of $1.17 per km and $29.15 per hour of waiting.
Housing Costs
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre averages $932.79.
Utilities
- Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Water, etc.) - Basic utilities for an 85m2 apartment cost between $64.13 and $174.9, averaging $89.03.
- Internet - Internet services range from $46.64 to $58.3, with an average cost of $51.19.
Cost of Living Rankings
The cost of living indices for New Zealand are compared to New York City (NYC), which serves as the baseline with an index of 100. These provide insights into the relative cost of living in different cities in New Zealand, covering factors like consumer goods, rent, and purchasing power.
Cost of Living Data
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"Key Takeaways"
Canterbury offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to other major cities in New Zealand.
Dining out can be economical, especially at casual restaurants, while housing remains reasonably priced.
Transportation costs are low, particularly for public transport, making it an attractive option for daily commuting.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Canterbury provides a balanced cost of living with affordable dining, transportation, and housing options.
This makes it an appealing choice for individuals and families looking to enjoy a high quality of life without the high costs associated with larger urban centers.