A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Amman vs. San Diego for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

Should you visit Amman or San Diego?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Amman and San Diego. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Where Should I go: Amman or San Diego?

Amman

Amman is the largest city in of the Hashemite Kingdom of the country of Jordan. It is also the capital city of Jordan and has a population of over four million people. Many people use Amman as a base for venturing out into the rest of Jordan and other surrounding countries. There are many things to see and do in Amman.

San Diego

For many visitors and locals alike, San Diego is a paradise. Located in southern California, not far from Los Angeles, it has the perfect climate, wonderful beaches, and a culturally rich environment. It's surrounded by beautiful landscape and has a strong focus on wildlife conservation and eco-friendly living. Home to about 1.3 million residents, it is California's second largest city. It also has many universities, a large tech industry, and a thriving economy. Despite its size, many people perceive San Diego as a slower, more relaxed city with a pleasant vibe away from the chaos of a large city.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Jordan, The Best Budget Tours to Jordan, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.


Which place is cheaper, San Diego or Amman?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Amman Prices
    Jordan Prices
    San Diego Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Amman $135
    San Diego $251

The average daily cost (per person) in Amman is $135, while the average daily cost in San Diego is $251. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Amman and San Diego in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Amman $49
    San Diego $124
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Amman $98
    San Diego $248
Compare Hotels in Amman and San Diego

Looking for a hotel in Amman or San Diego? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Amman


Hotels in San Diego


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Amman Hotel Prices and San Diego Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Amman $24
    San Diego $23
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Amman

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Amman:


  • Bus Ride (for Two)
    $0.71
  • RIde to Airport
    $28

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Amman

Also for Amman, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Amman Airport Private Transfer To Petra By Minivan: $260
  • Transfer to Petra from Amman /Amman Airport: $250
  • Petra or WadiRum transfer to/from Amman, Airport, Madaba, Deadsea: $240
  • Private Transfer From Amman Airport To Petra: $190
  • Amman Private Transfer to Jerusalem with VIP Service: $175
  • Private Transfer from Allenby King Hussein Bridge to Aqaba Airport: $173
  • Private Amman Airport Transfer to Petra, Reliable Shuttle Service: $160
  • Amman Airport to Petra Shuttle, Comfortable & Affordable Transfer: $160
  • Private Transfer from Amman Airport to Araba Border: $153
  • Petra Transfer to and from Airport: $150
  • Full-Day Private Round-Trip Transfers to Petra from Amman: $135
  • Wadi Mujib Siq Taril (Self Guided) with round trip transfers: $134

Hired Cars and Shuttles in San Diego

Also for San Diego, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Tijuana to Tijuana International Airport (TIJ) - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $134
  • Tijuana to Tijuana International Airport (TIJ) – Departure Private Transfer: $67
  • Tijuana Intl Airport (TIJ) to Playas de Rosarito - Arrival Private Transfer: $263
  • Tijuana International Airport (TIJ) to Tijuana hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $67
  • Sedan Arrival Private Transfer San Diego Airport SAN to San Diego: $160
  • San Diego hotel/address to San Diego Airport (SAN) - Departure Private Transfer: $62
  • San Diego Airport (SAN) to San Marcos, CA - Arrival Private Transfer: $63
  • San Diego Airport (SAN) to San Diego hotel/address - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $123
  • San Diego Airport (SAN) to Carlsbad - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $125
  • Private Transfer from Tijuana to Ensenada and Valle de Guadalupe: $136
  • Private Transfer from San Diego Port to San Diego Airport (SAN): $67
  • Private Transfer from San Diego (SAN) Airport to San Diego City: $83

Is it cheaper to fly into Amman or San Diego?

Prices for flights to both San Diego and Amman change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Amman $58
    San Diego $84
Typical Food Prices in Amman

For Amman, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Pastries
    $4.23
  • Tea
    $5.64

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Amman

For Amman, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • private cooking with local chef: $40
  • Private 2 Hour Cooking Class with the Locals in Amman: $50
  • Private Lunch or Dinner at a Local Traditional Restaurant in Amman: $80
  • Amman Food Tours: 3-Hours Guided Walking Food Tour in Amman: $98
  • Amman Cooking Class with Local Market Tour: $99

Typical Food Prices in San Diego

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to San Diego:


  • Mexican Lunch for Two
    $27
  • Breakfast at Starbucks
    $20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in San Diego

For San Diego, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Ocean Beach Walking Food Tour in San Diego: $60
  • San Diego Gaslamp Food Tour with 6 Modern Californian Tastings: $78
  • San Diego Holiday Sweet Treats, Donuts & Pastries Food Tour: $85
  • Vegan Food Tour: $89
  • Pizza and Ice Cream Walking Tour: $89
  • Old Town Tequila and Tacos Walking Food Tour: $94
  • San Diego Vegan Food Tour: $94
  • Little Italy Food and Drink Walking Tour: Pizza, Pasta & Piazzas: $96
  • Gaslamp District Food Tour with 6 Local Dishes: $96
  • Gaslamp Quarter Downtown San Diego Food Tour: $99
  • City Cruises Buffet Dinner Cruise with Drinks: $108
  • San Diego Walking Food Tour and Ferry to Coronado Island: $113

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Amman $32
    San Diego $57

Tours and Activities in Amman

For Amman, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 1Day Private spiritual Tour to Amman Madaba Baptism site Dead Sea: $150
  • 2 Day Group Tour from Amman to Petra Wadi Rum Aqaba Dead Sea: $250
  • 2 Day Petra Shobak Wadi Rum and Dead Sea Private Guided Tour: $210
  • 2 Day Petra Wadi Rum Baptism and Dead Sea Private Guided Tour: $210
  • 2 Day Petra Wadi Rum Madaba Mount Nebo and Dead Sea Privet Tour: $210
  • 2 Day Petra Wadi Rum Madaba and Dead Sea Private Guided Tour: $210
  • 2 Day Petra Wadi Rum Madaba and Mount Nebo Private Guided Tour: $210
  • 2 Day Petra Wadi Rum Pink Lake Salt Beach Dead Sea Private Tour: $210
  • 2 Day Petra Wadi Rum Pink Lake and Dead Sea Private Guided Tour: $210
  • 2 Day Petra Wadi Rum and Aqaba Private Guided Tour: $210
  • 2 Day Petra Wadi Rum and Dead Sea Private Guided Tour: $210
  • 2 Day Petra Wadi Rum and Dead Sea Private Guided Tour: $192

Typical Entertainment Prices in San Diego

For San Diego, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • San Diego Zoo
    $15
  • Sea World Parking
    $12

Tours and Activities in San Diego

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for San Diego.

  • 1-Hour Private Scenic Tandem Sidecar Tour in San Diego: $99
  • 2-Hour GoCar Tour of Downtown and Balboa Park: $90
  • 2-Hour GoCar Tour: Downtown San Diego and Old Town or Beaches: $52
  • 2-Hour San Diego Pier Fishing Experience: $75
  • 2.5-Hour Small-Group Catamaran Sailing Adventure with Drinks: $119
  • 2Hr GPS Self Guided Scooter Tour: Downtown & Balboa Park: $82
  • 2Hr GPS Self Guided Scooter Tour: Downtown & Old Town: $82
  • All Day San Diego Scenic Tour: $125
  • An Immersive Communal Dining Experience Hosted by Chef Bear: $195
  • Authentic tour San Diego >little italy>la jewel cove>>fat tacos: $100
  • Balboa Park Electric Scooter Tour with Pictures: $75
  • Beaches & Bluffs San Diego Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: $15

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Amman $14
    San Diego $21

Sample the Local Flavors in Amman

Also in Amman, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Full Day Tour of Ajloun Castle with Cable Car and Wine Tasting: $127

Sample the Local Flavors in San Diego

Also in San Diego, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Downtown Bar Crawl Party Pass: $20
  • San Diego Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • San Diego Haunted Pub Crawl: True Crime & Ghost Stories: $35
  • Hillcrest: LGBTQ+ Pub Crawl with Local Drag Queen: $35
  • Hillcrest Drag Queen 5 Bar Crawl with Shots: $45
  • Pasta Making Class at a Trendy Local Brewery in San Diego: $75
  • Brewery Tour with Tastings and Food Pairings: $85
  • Vino! Vino! Little Italy Wine Tasting Walking Tour: $125
  • Little Italy Wine Tasting Walking Tour: $125
  • Cruise & Booze Brewery tours: $149
  • Baja Tour Guide wine tour: $169
  • Private Deluxe Wine Tour to Valle de Guadalupe by Luxury Vehicle: $209


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Amman and San Diego, we can see that San Diego is more expensive. And not only is Amman much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Amman is in Middle East and San Diego is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Amman would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Amman and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in San Diego would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in San Diego than you might in Amman.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Amman Expensive? and Is San Diego Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Amman or San Diego?

Amman has a larger population, and is about 4% larger than the population of San Diego. When comparing the sizes of Amman and San Diego, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Amman or San Diego?

San Diego has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Amman experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Amman or San Diego in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Amman and San Diego. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Amman year-round. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to San Diego this time of year.

Amman is a little warmer than San Diego in the summer. The daily temperature in Amman averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and San Diego fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in San Diego this time of the year. In Amman, it's very sunny this time of the year. Amman usually receives more sunshine than San Diego during summer. Amman gets 364 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 306 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Amman usually receives more rain than San Diego. Amman gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Amman 25°C (77°F) 
    San Diego 71°F (22°C)

Should I visit Amman or San Diego in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Amman as well as San Diego. Amman attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many travelers come to San Diego for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Amman is around the same temperature as San Diego. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Amman in October average around 20°C (68°F), and San Diego averages at about 68°F (20°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in San Diego. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Amman this time of the year. In the autumn, Amman often gets more sunshine than San Diego. Amman gets 274 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 244 hours of full sun.

Amman usually gets more rain in October than San Diego. Amman gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Amman 20°C (68°F) 
    San Diego 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Amman or San Diego in the Winter?

Both San Diego and Amman are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Amman throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to San Diego in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Amman is generally much colder than San Diego. Daily temperatures in Amman average around 8°C (46°F), and San Diego fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

It's quite sunny in San Diego. Amman usually receives less sunshine than San Diego during winter. Amman gets 184 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 239 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Amman. In January, Amman usually receives more rain than San Diego. Amman gets 149 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 1.8 inches (46 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Amman 8°C (46°F) 
    San Diego 57°F (14°C)

Should I visit Amman or San Diego in the Spring?

Both San Diego and Amman during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Amman because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, most visitors come to San Diego for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

Amman is around the same temperature as San Diego in the spring. The daily temperature in Amman averages around 16°C (61°F) in April, and San Diego fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

In San Diego, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Amman. In the spring, Amman often gets around the same amount of sunshine as San Diego. Amman gets 269 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 277 hours of full sun.

Amman usually gets more rain in April than San Diego. Amman gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.8 inches (20 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Amman 16°C (61°F) 
    San Diego 62°F (17°C)

Typical Weather for San Diego and Amman

Amman San Diego
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 8°C (46°F) 149 mm (5.9 in) 57°F (14°C) 1.8 inches (46 mm)
Feb 9°C (48°F) 98 mm (3.9 in) 59°F (15°C) 1.5 inches (39 mm)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 59°F (15°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm)
Apr 16°C (61°F) 23 mm (0.9 in) 62°F (17°C) 0.8 inches (20 mm)
May 21°C (70°F) 3 mm (0.1 in) 64°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 24°C (75°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 67°F (19°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Jul 25°C (77°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 71°F (22°C) 0 inches (1 mm)
Aug 25°C (77°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 73°F (23°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Sep 24°C (75°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 71°F (22°C) 0.2 inches (6 mm)
Oct 20°C (68°F) 26 mm (1 in) 68°F (20°C) 0.4 inches (9 mm)
Nov 14°C (57°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 62°F (17°C) 1.5 inches (37 mm)
Dec 10°C (50°F) 138 mm (5.4 in) 57°F (14°C) 1.6 inches (40 mm)