Pros & Cons of Living in Palmerston North

Thinking about moving to Palmerston North? Below we highlight some of the pros and cons of living in Palmerston North.

Palmerston North, a city in the North Island of New Zealand, is a place that offers a unique blend of urban and rural living. Known for its vibrant arts scene, excellent educational institutions, and a strong sense of community, it's a city that has a lot to offer. However, like any place, it has its pros and cons. In this article, we will delve into the advantages and disadvantages of living in Palmerston North, providing a balanced view of life in this Kiwi city.

Pros of Living in Palmerston North

One of the most significant advantages of living in Palmerston North is its affordability. Compared to larger cities like Auckland or Wellington, the cost of living here is considerably lower. Housing, in particular, is much more affordable, making it an attractive place for families and retirees. For instance, the median house price in Palmerston North is around NZ$500,000, while in Auckland, it's over NZ$1 million.

Another advantage is the city's strong sense of community. Palmerston North is home to numerous community groups and organizations, such as the Palmerston North Community Services Council and the Manawatu Multicultural Council, which provide opportunities for residents to get involved and give back to the community. This strong community spirit is evident in the city's numerous events and festivals, such as the Festival of Cultures, which celebrates the city's diversity.

Education is another area where Palmerston North shines. The city is home to Massey University, one of New Zealand's leading universities, and UCOL, a well-regarded polytechnic. There are also numerous excellent primary and secondary schools in the city, making it a great place for families with children.

Palmerston North also offers a great lifestyle. The city is surrounded by beautiful countryside, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and fishing. The city itself has a vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries, theatres, and live music venues. The Centrepoint Theatre, for example, is a hub for local theatre, while the Regent on Broadway is a stunning historic venue that hosts a range of performances.

Finally, Palmerston North's location is another advantage. It's centrally located in the North Island, making it a great base for exploring the rest of New Zealand. Wellington is just a two-hour drive away, while the stunning beaches of the Kapiti Coast are even closer.

Cons of Living in Palmerston North, New Zealand

Despite its many advantages, there are also some downsides to living in Palmerston North. One of the main disadvantages is the city's weather. Palmerston North is known for its wind, which can be quite strong at times. The city also gets a fair amount of rain, and while this keeps the surrounding countryside lush and green, it can make for some dreary days.

Another disadvantage is the city's limited job market. While Palmerston North is home to several large employers, such as Massey University and the MidCentral District Health Board, opportunities in certain sectors can be limited. This can make it challenging for people in fields like IT or finance to find work in the city.

While Palmerston North has a vibrant arts scene, it can't compete with the cultural offerings of larger cities like Auckland or Wellington. There are fewer galleries, theatres, and live music venues, and the city doesn't attract as many big-name acts or exhibitions. For those who crave the buzz of a big city, Palmerston North may feel a bit quiet.

Finally, while Palmerston North's central location is an advantage in terms of exploring the rest of New Zealand, it can also be a disadvantage. The city is somewhat isolated, with the nearest large city, Wellington, a two-hour drive away. This can make it feel a bit remote, especially for those used to living in larger cities.

In conclusion, Palmerston North is a city that offers a lot, from affordable housing and a strong sense of community to excellent educational institutions and a great lifestyle. However, it also has its downsides, including its weather, limited job market, and relative isolation. Ultimately, whether or not Palmerston North is the right place for you will depend on your personal preferences and circumstances.

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Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
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