A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Atlanta vs. Los Angeles for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Atlanta or Los Angeles?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Atlanta or Los Angeles, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Atlanta

Atlanta is a suburban, cultural, and diverse city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a glamourous, diverse, and multicultural city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Atlanta and Los Angeles: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Home to Hollywood


Is there more to do in Atlanta or Los Angeles?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Los Angeles than Atlanta. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Los Angeles is more touristy than Atlanta and is known for is many A-list celebrities, its world-famous clubs and venues, its glamourous beaches, and being the location of the iconic Hollywood. It is also well known for Hollywood. Atlanta is famous for its world class aquarium, its role as host of the 1996 Olympic Games, and its influence during the Civil Rights Movement.

How is Atlanta different from Los Angeles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Los Angeles and Atlanta. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Atlanta or Los Angeles?

Atlanta
Los Angeles

You'll find a number of world-class museums and attractions in both Los Angeles and Atlanta.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Atlanta has many famous sights for visitors. The museums range in topic from history to science and art. The country's largest aquarium, the Georgia Aquarium, is in Atlanta as well. It's home to whale sharks, stingrays, and a diversity of marine life. Other museums around town include the Atlanta History Center, the Fernbank Museum of Natural History, the High Museum of Art, the World of Coca Cola, the David J. Sencer CDC Museum, and the Delta Flight Museum. There are also many monuments and sites including the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Los Angeles that are not to be missed. The city has an eclectic list of monuments and museums. Notable landmarks include the famous Hollywood sign, Griffith Observatory, the Getty Center, and the Petersen Automotive Museum.


Is Atlanta or Los Angeles Better for Theater?

Atlanta
Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a great city for its shows and theatre. However, Atlanta is not a theatre destination.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Los Angeles. While most people think of Hollywood when they think of LA, the city also has a thriving stage presence. Musicals and plays are popular throughout the city.

Atlanta is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Atlanta or Los Angeles? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Atlanta
Los Angeles

Los Angeles is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Los Angeles is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. As a huge and diverse city, there is no shortage of amazing food options around town. There are a wide range of cuisines represented and many different neighborhoods that specialize in specific types of food. Popular dishes around town include Cobb Salads, Mexican Tacos, and the French Dip Sandwich.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Atlanta makes for a great culinary experience. It's a huge city with a wide selection of restaurants including international, local, and classic southern styles. Fried chicken, biscuits, diner food, and barbecue are all popular. For a classic southern breakfast check out The OK Cafe and for a quintessential Atlanta experience go to The Varsity.

Is Atlanta or Los Angeles Better for Nightlife?

Atlanta
Los Angeles

Los Angeles is terrific for its evening party scene. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

Los Angeles is a must-see party destination. The city's nightlife scene is as diverse as the city itself. There are glamorous clubs where you might spot a celebrity, as well as local dives with a more down-to-earth vibe. Some of the most famous clubs in the city include Academy, Avalon, and Boardner's.

Atlanta offers plenty to do in the evening. The nightlife scene is diverse with trendy bars, dance clubs, and huge music halls. There are a number of neighborhoods that each have their own atmosphere. For some of the best nightlife check out the upscale bars in Buckhead, the music venues in Midtown, the hipster vibe in Edgewood, or the laid-back atmosphere in Virginia Highland.


Is Atlanta or Los Angeles Better for Music?

Atlanta
Los Angeles

Los Angeles is terrific for its music scene. However, Atlanta is not a live music destination.

Los Angeles has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Music, movies, and show business - it's all part of what Los Angeles is known for. Several famous music venues include The Greek Theatre, Whiskey a Go Go, and The Roxy Theatre.

Atlanta is not a live music destination.

Is Atlanta or Los Angeles Better for Resorts?

Atlanta
Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a great city for its luxury resorts. However, Atlanta is not a resort destination.

Los Angeles is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. The city is home to a number of high end resorts including The Beverly Hill Hotel, The Langham Huntington Pasadena, and The Ritz-Carlton.

Atlanta is not a resort destination.

Is Atlanta or Los Angeles Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Atlanta
Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Atlanta is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Los Angeles has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. The coastal setting means that there are a number of places where you can put on a mask and hop in the water. Popular snorkeling or diving spots near the city include Santa Catalina Island, Diver's Cove, and Crystal Cove State Park. Many visitors find the water to be a bit chili, but the wildlife is unique and beautiful.

Atlanta is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Atlanta or Los Angeles Better for Beaches?

Atlanta
Los Angeles

Los Angeles is terrific for the beach. However, Atlanta is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Los Angeles are among the best in the world. Ranging from beaches with stunning natural beauty to those with glamourous and fun atmospheres, this city has a number of beaches to choose from. There are many fun and high-energy urban beach settings, and there are also beaches that are lined with parks and offer a more natural environment. Some of the most popular are Santa Monica, Malibu, Huntington Beach, and Redondo Beach.

Atlanta is not a beach destination.

Is Atlanta or Los Angeles Better for Hiking?

Atlanta
Los Angeles

Los Angeles is terrific for hiking. However, Atlanta is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Los Angeles draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. In and around the city you'll find world class urban hiking with views of the mountains and the ocean. Some of the most well-known hikes include the Charlie Turner Trail to Mount Hollywood, Runyon Canyon, and the Sara Wan Trailhead at Corral Canyon.

Atlanta is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Atlanta or Los Angeles?

Atlanta
Los Angeles

If you're looking to go shopping, Atlanta and Los Angeles both offer plenty of world-class spots.

Many people travel to Atlanta specifically to go shopping. There are a number of great shopping districts around town. Atlantic Station is popular with a movie theater and ice skating. Buckhead has boutique and local vendors and Lenox Square has a large shopping mall.

Los Angeles is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Although it's most famous for the high end shopping at Rodeo Drive, there are actually many different shopping venues throughout the city. Other famous shopping areas include Robertson Blvd and the Grove.


Is Atlanta or Los Angeles Better for Families?

Atlanta
Los Angeles

Los Angeles is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Los Angeles is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. With its many amusement parks, including nearby Disneyland, and its countless family-friendly parks and playgrounds, there is no shortage of things to do with kids around the city. Favorite activities include the amusement parks, exploring Venice Beach, a trip to the California Science Center, and taking a Warner Brothers Studio Tour.

Atlanta is a very family-friendly place to visit. There is no shortage of playgrounds around town, but a highlight of any trip is a visit to the Georgia Aquarium. It's the largest aquarium in the United States and its home to whale sharks, hammerheads, dolphin shows, and more. It is so much more than just an aquarium, and it truly is a not to be missed experience. Also worth a visit are Zoo Atlanta, the Center of Puppetry Arts, Stone Mountain, Fernbank Museum of Natural History, and the Lego Discovery Center. If you have the chance to see the Atlanta Braves play, that's also a rewarding experience.

Is Atlanta or Los Angeles Better for Couples?

Atlanta
Los Angeles

Los Angeles is terrific for couples. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Los Angeles has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It is a large, sprawling city with tucked away romantic scenes that are perfect for a couple's getaway or a dream honeymoon. There are also trendy nightclubs, world-class restaurants, and high-energy beaches that make for iconic date activities.

Atlanta is a nice destination for couples. It's a big city, so there are a number of date night activities available such as orchestra concerts, theater shows, and fine dining. The city also has many outdoor areas like Lake Lanier and Piedmont Park. The Georgia Aquarium is world class, and there are other amazing museums around town as well.

Is Atlanta or Los Angeles Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Atlanta
Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Los Angeles. The city is a major travel destination for all types, and backpackers will find no shortage of hostels or budget friendly accommodation around town.

Atlanta is a good city to visit for backpackers. While it's usually overlooked by backpackers, there are actually a couple of hostels around town and a surprising number of activities worth experiencing. The city's large airport make it a convenient entry point for international travelers.


Is Atlanta or Los Angeles Better for Students?

Atlanta
Los Angeles

Los Angeles is terrific for its student-friendly activities. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Los Angeles is a great destination for students. International students have long flocked to this for its major universities and diverse setting. Major universities in the area include UCLA, the University of Southern California, and the California Institute of Technology.

Students come from all over to stay in Atlanta. There are a number of universities in town such as Emory, Georgia Institute of Technology, Georgia State University, and Morehouse College. The city is sprawling, but it's also full of entertainment and activities that students will enjoy.

Is Atlanta or Los Angeles Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Atlanta
Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Atlanta is not known for its public transit.

While Los Angeles offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Many of the public transit options are overlooked by visitors for a number of reasons, but options include the subway, light rail, and buses.

Public transit is generally limited in Atlanta. For such a large city, the public transportation system is very limited. MARTA is the main transit authority and there are a few subway lines that cross the city as well as bus routes running around town.

Is Atlanta or Los Angeles a more walkable city?

Atlanta
Los Angeles

Atlanta and Los Angeles are nice when it comes to walkability.

Atlanta is a somewhat walkable city. Parts of the city are walkable, but most of the sights are spread out and require a car to access. Within neighborhoods, there are a few places that are more pedestrian-friendly such as Downtown, Midtown, Virginia Highlands, and Buckhead.

Los Angeles is somewhat walkable. The city is sprawling, but some of the neighborhoods are more walkable than others. Some of the more walkable neighborhoods include Hollywood, Koreatown, Downtown, and MacArthur Park.


For even more information, also check out Is Atlanta Worth Visiting? and Is Los Angeles Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Los Angeles or Atlanta?

How long in Atlanta or Los Angeles?

Both Atlanta and Los Angeles have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Los Angeles than in Atlanta. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Atlanta, and 5-7 days is enough time in Los Angeles.

Families should spend more time in Los Angeles than Atlanta. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Los Angeles, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Los Angeles than Atlanta. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Los Angeles that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Los Angeles than Atlanta if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Los Angeles.


  • How many days in Atlanta or Los Angeles? Ideal Length of Stay
    Atlanta 2-4 
    Los Angeles 5-7

One day in Atlanta or Los Angeles?

Atlanta is a cultural city where you can fill many days. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Los Angeles, you'll find live music and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Atlanta or Los Angeles?

Atlanta is a sprawling big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

In Los Angeles, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Atlanta or Los Angeles?

The sprawling city of Atlanta offers shopping and museums. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Los Angeles is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Los Angeles has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Atlanta or Los Angeles?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Atlanta. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Los Angeles. In Los Angeles, you'll find shopping and museums. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Los Angeles or Atlanta?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Atlanta is $173, while the average daily cost in Los Angeles is $258. 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 Atlanta and Los Angeles in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Atlanta $90
    Los Angeles $140
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Atlanta $180
    Los Angeles $280
Compare Hotels in Atlanta and Los Angeles

Looking for a hotel in Atlanta or Los Angeles? 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 Atlanta


Hotels in Los Angeles


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: Atlanta Hotel Prices and Los Angeles Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Atlanta $44
    Los Angeles $42
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Atlanta

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Atlanta:


  • MARTA Subway Ticket
    $4.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Atlanta

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

  • Transfer in executiveprivate vehicle from Atlanta Airport(ATL) -Atlanta Downtown: $53
  • Transfer in Executive Private Minivan from Atlanta Downtown to Atlanta Airport: $67
  • Transfer in Executive Private Minivan from Atlanta Airport to Atlanta Downtown: $67
  • San Jose Airport: One-Way Private Transfer to San Jose Costa: $35
  • Roundtrip transfer in executive private car from Atlanta Airport to Alpharetta: $144
  • Roundtrip Transfer PrivateExecutive Vehicle Atlanta Airport(ATL)-AtlantaDowntown: $105
  • Private Transfer: H. J. Airport ATL to Atlanta in Business Car: $120
  • Private Transfer: Atlanta to H. J. Airport ATL in Business Car: $120
  • Private Transfer from Atlanta (ATL) Airport to Atlanta City: $95
  • Private Car Transfer From Atlanta Airport to Atlanta Metro Area: $67
  • Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta Airport (ATL):Transfer to Atlanta: $282
  • Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta Airport (ATL) to Atlanta - Roundtrip Private Transfer: $197

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Los Angeles

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Los Angeles:


  • Hotel Parking for a Day
    $22
  • Taxi to Airport
    $55

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Los Angeles

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

  • Private City Highlights Tour with Transfer: $999
  • LA: City Highlights Private Guided Tour with Transfer: $999
  • Los Angeles Airport (LAX): Private Transfer to Los Angeles: $775
  • Private Transfers between LAX Airport and Los Angeles: $520
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Airport LAX to Los Angeles in Luxury Car: $284
  • Departure Private Transfer: Los Angeles to Airport LAX in Luxury Car: $275
  • Departure Private Transfer: Los Angeles to Ontario Airport ONT in Luxury Van: $275
  • Los Angeles Airport (LAX) to Desert Hot Springs Arrival Transfer: $254
  • San Diego Private Transfer To or From Universal Studios/Burbank.: $248
  • One-Way Private Transfers From/To Los Angeles Airport: $245
  • Private Transfer: Los Angeles to Ontario Airport ONT in Business Car: $242
  • Private Round-trip Airport Transfer: LAX International Airport to Anaheim Hotels: $240

Is it cheaper to fly into Atlanta or Los Angeles?

Prices for flights to both Los Angeles and Atlanta 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
    Atlanta $43
    Los Angeles $60
Typical Food Prices in Atlanta

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


  • Fast Food Lunch (for 2)
    $15
  • Lunch
    $20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Atlanta

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

  • City Lights Atlanta Night-Time Tour with Photos & Dinner Stop: $65
  • City Lights Night Tour with Photos & Dinner Stop: $65
  • 2 Hour Historic Market Food Tour and Hands-On Biscuit Class: $70
  • Historic Market Food Tour and Biscuit Cooking Class: $70
  • Ponce City Market 2.5-Hour Weekend Food Tour: $99
  • Food Tour of Inman Park and the Atlanta Beltline: $99

Typical Food Prices in Los Angeles

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


  • Mexican Dinner (family of 4)
    $32
  • Burritos for Two
    $15
  • Coffee and Danish
    $7.70

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Los Angeles

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

  • Santa Monica Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $65
  • Venice Beach Food Tour with Tastings: $75
  • 3-Hour Secret Food Tour: $88
  • Venice Beach LA Food Tour: $89
  • Downtown Los Angeles Food Tour: $89
  • Downtown Food Tour: $89
  • Venice Beach Food Tour: $89
  • LA Venice Beach Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $99
  • Original Downtown Los Angeles Walking Food Tour with Six Taste: $110
  • Night Cruise in Marina del Rey with Dinner: $124
  • Vegan African Dinner Party in Playa Del Ray: $132
  • Marina Del Rey: Thanksgiving Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $136

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Atlanta $56
    Los Angeles $82

Tours and Activities in Atlanta

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

  • 2-Hour Food, History and Street Art Tour of Ponce City Market: $95
  • 2.5hr Guided Segway Tour of Historic Atlanta: $69
  • 2.5hr Guided Segway Tour of Midtown Atlanta: $69
  • 3-Hour Atlanta Beltline Food, Street Art and History Tour : $99
  • 3-Hour Private Atlanta MCU Comics Inspired Film Location Tour: $159
  • 90-Minute Guided Sightseeing Tour by E-Car or MiniBus: $36
  • 90-Minute Narrated Sightseeing Trolley Tour in Atlanta: $36
  • African-American Heritage&Civil Rights Atlanta Half-Day Tour: $666
  • Art on the Streets: Private Atlanta Public and Street Art Tour: $159
  • Atlanta 5 Hour City Tour by Air-Conditioned Bus: $70
  • Atlanta Beltline Cocktails and Bites Experience: $90
  • Atlanta Braves Baseball Game Ticket at Truist Park: $17

Typical Entertainment Prices in Los Angeles

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Los Angeles's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Santa Monica Pier Rides (family of 4)
    $37
  • Bowling
    $13
  • Hollywood Tour for Two
    $30
  • Six Flags for 2
    $96

Tours and Activities in Los Angeles

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

  • 1-Hour Private Ferrari Driving Tour: Hollywood to Beverly Hills: $289
  • 2 Hour Celebrity Homes Tour: $175
  • 2-Hour Hollywood Bus Tour: $45
  • 2.5 Hour Fright Sights Tour of Hollywood and Beverly Hills: $219
  • 2.5 Hour Private Tour of Hollywood and Beverly Hills: $219
  • 2.5-hour Hollywood Chills Tour - Celebrity Scandals and Cemeteries : $219
  • 20 Min Ferrari driving tour in Hollywood: $99
  • 20 Min Lamborghini driving tour in Hollywood: $139
  • 3-Hour Private Bike Tour with a Local Beverly Hills Guide: $166
  • 3-Hour Small Group Tour: Hollywood to Beverly Hills: $49
  • 30 Minute Lamborghini Huracan Spyder Driving Tour in Hollywood: $189
  • 30-Minute Private Ferrari Driving Tour To Hollywood Sign: $139

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Atlanta $17
    Los Angeles $15

Sample the Local Flavors in Atlanta

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Atlanta:

  • Drag Queen Guided Pub Crawl and Cabaret Show: $36
  • ATLANTA Yes, Queen! Drag Queen Pub Crawl : $40
  • Half-Day Wine Tastings in the North Georgia Mountains : $115
  • Full-Day Wine Country Wine Tastings From Atlanta : $120

Sample the Local Flavors in Los Angeles

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Los Angeles:

  • LA Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • LA Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $40
  • Salsa Lesson, Burlesque and Mojitos : $149
  • Salsa Lesson and Burlesque Show: $149
  • Malibu: Vintage VW Sightseeing Tour and Wine Tasting: $195


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Atlanta and Los Angeles, we can see that Los Angeles is more expensive. And not only is Atlanta much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Atlanta would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Atlanta 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 Los Angeles would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Los Angeles than you might in Atlanta.

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


Which is Bigger, Atlanta or Los Angeles?

Los Angeles has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Atlanta. When comparing the sizes of Atlanta and Los Angeles, 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 Atlanta or Los Angeles?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Atlanta or Los Angeles in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Atlanta and Los Angeles. Many travelers come to Atlanta for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Los Angeles in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Atlanta is a little warmer than Los Angeles in the summer. The daily temperature in Atlanta averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Los Angeles fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

Atlanta gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Atlanta usually receives more rain than Los Angeles. Atlanta gets 5.2 inches (133 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0 inches (0 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Atlanta 82°F (28°C) 
    Los Angeles 72°F (22°C)

Should I visit Atlanta or Los Angeles in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Atlanta as well as Los Angeles. Many visitors come to Atlanta in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Los Angeles for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months.

In the autumn, Atlanta is around the same temperature as Los Angeles. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Atlanta in October average around 66°F (19°C), and Los Angeles averages at about 64°F (18°C).

Atlanta usually gets more rain in October than Los Angeles. Atlanta gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Atlanta 66°F (19°C) 
    Los Angeles 64°F (18°C)

Should I visit Atlanta or Los Angeles in the Winter?

Both Los Angeles and Atlanta are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Atlanta for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Los Angeles because of the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

In January, Atlanta is generally much colder than Los Angeles. Daily temperatures in Atlanta average around 45°F (7°C), and Los Angeles fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

It's quite rainy in Atlanta. In January, Atlanta usually receives more rain than Los Angeles. Atlanta gets 4.7 inches (120 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Atlanta 45°F (7°C) 
    Los Angeles 55°F (13°C)

Should I visit Atlanta or Los Angeles in the Spring?

Both Los Angeles and Atlanta during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Atlanta because of the activities around the city. Furthermore, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Los Angeles this time of year.

Atlanta is a little warmer than Los Angeles in the spring. The daily temperature in Atlanta averages around 65°F (18°C) in April, and Los Angeles fluctuates around 61°F (16°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Atlanta. Atlanta usually gets more rain in April than Los Angeles. Atlanta gets 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 1 inches (25 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Atlanta 65°F (18°C) 
    Los Angeles 61°F (16°C)

Typical Weather for Los Angeles and Atlanta

Atlanta Los Angeles
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 45°F (7°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm) 55°F (13°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Feb 49°F (9°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm) 55°F (13°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Mar 57°F (14°C) 5.8 inches (147 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Apr 65°F (18°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm) 61°F (16°C) 1 inches (25 mm)
May 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 63°F (17°C) 0.4 inches (10 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 66°F (19°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.2 inches (133 mm) 72°F (22°C) 0 inches (0 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm) 72°F (22°C) 0 inches (0 mm)
Sep 76°F (25°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 70°F (21°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Oct 66°F (19°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.6 inches (15 mm)
Nov 57°F (14°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 63°F (17°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
Dec 48°F (9°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)