A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Atlantic City vs. The Hamptons for Nightlife, Resorts, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Atlantic City or The Hamptons?

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 Atlantic City and The Hamptons. 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.

Atlantic City

Atlantic City is a party-oriented, colorful, and glitzy city. It's also known for beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

The Hamptons

The Hamptons is a wealthy, opulent, and lavish beach destination. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking.

Atlantic City and The Hamptons: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Atlantic City or The Hamptons?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Atlantic City. Although Atlantic City and The Hamptons are both popular with visitors, Atlantic City has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Atlantic City is more popular for its museums and nightlife, while The Hamptons is known for its hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Atlantic City is more touristy than The Hamptons and is known for its casinos, gambling culture, nightlife scene, and wild personality It is also home to Steel Pier and the Boardwalk. The Hamptons is popular for its long sandy beaches, charming seaside communities, opulent villas, and vacationing celebrities.

How is Atlantic City different from The Hamptons?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between The Hamptons and Atlantic City. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Atlantic City or The Hamptons?

Atlantic City
The Hamptons

Atlantic City is a city with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, The Hamptons does not have museums and landmarks.

Atlantic City offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. While most people don't spend their time in museums, there is the Marine Mammal Stranding Center, the African American Heritage Museum, and the Noyes Museum Galleries.

The Hamptons does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Atlantic City or The Hamptons? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Atlantic City
The Hamptons

Foodies will find both Atlantic City and The Hamptons both to be good destinations.

Atlantic City offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are budget buffets around town as well as seafood restaurants and even some fine dining. Salt water taffy is a local specialty that you should pick up while you're in the area.

The Hamptons has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a number of fine dining restaurants in the area and seafood is a favorite. Some restaurants are known to be frequented by vacationing celebrities, so if you're hoping to spot someone famous, do some research and you may have some luck.

Is Atlantic City or The Hamptons Better for Nightlife?

Atlantic City
The Hamptons

Atlantic City is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, The Hamptons is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

People head to Atlantic City just to party. This is a city that is all about its nightlife scene. Many visitors come here just to party, and you'll find clubs with DJs or bands playing from sunset to sunrise. There are glitzy lounges and dive bars with everything in between. As a gambling town, there are casinos and all-night activities that keep the energy going round the clock.

If you're looking for night time activities The Hamptons has a few options to choose from. There are plenty of nightclubs and bars throughout the area. Head to East Hampton for some of the best options.

Is Atlantic City or The Hamptons Better for Resorts?

Atlantic City
The Hamptons

There are very good resorts to choose from in both Atlantic City and The Hamptons.

There are plenty of resorts in Atlantic City to choose from. The beach and boardwalk are lined with casinos and resorts. There are many recognizable names such as Harrah's, Bally's, Caesars, Hard Rock, and the Tropicana.

The Hamptons is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Known as a hangout for the rich and famous, there is no shortage of luxury hotels and resorts in the area.


Is Atlantic City or The Hamptons Better for Beaches?

Atlantic City
The Hamptons

Atlantic City and The Hamptons both offer good beaches.

Atlantic City offers a nice beach destination. There's a Boardwalk that runs along the beach and is lined with piers and hotels. The Downtown Beach is the most accessible, and where most tourists hang out. If you're willing to travel a little further, there are some nice beaches nearby such as Margate Beach and Brigantine Beach.

The Hamptons is a good option for a beach vacation. The beaches in the area feature long stretches of soft sand and plenty of space to spread out. Many beaches do come with a hefty price tag though as they require you to pay for parking or a permit.

Is Atlantic City or The Hamptons Better for Hiking?

Atlantic City
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is a good destination for its hiking experiences. However, Atlantic City is not a hiking destination.

The Hamptons offers some nice hiking trails. There are a number of picturesque walks through the dunes and wetlands around the area. There is plenty of peaceful nature to explore if you're looking for a break from city life.

Atlantic City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Atlantic City or The Hamptons?

Atlantic City
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

The Hamptons is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Known as a playground for the rich and famous, you can be assured there are plenty of shopping opportunities where you can flash your cash around town.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Atlantic City. You'll find many souvenir shops along the boardwalk. There's also a Tangier Outlet Mall in the area. Some of the hotels such as the Tropicana have their own shopping areas as well.


Is Atlantic City or The Hamptons Better for Families?

Atlantic City
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is a good destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Atlantic City is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in The Hamptons. The area has a family-friendly setting with many outdoor activities and a children's museum. There are music events, children's parks, small zoos, and, of course, the beach. Also make sure you pick up some ice cream and enjoy that quintessential beach experience.

For families, Atlantic City is not always the best place to visit. Most families avoid this area for more family-friendly beaches, but if you find yourself in the area, you can check out Ripley's Believe It or Not or go on a dolphin cruise. Also popular is Steel Pier, which has rides for all ages.

Is Atlantic City or The Hamptons Better for Couples?

Atlantic City
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is well known for romance. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit The Hamptons frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy beaches, dining out, and escaping the chaos of city life will enjoy a retreat here. The area has many beautiful parks and outdoor spaces, but there are also amazing restaurants that make for a great date night.

Atlantic City makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's not exactly known for its romance, but there are casinos, hotels, and a beaches that are fun to visit. You'll also find several spas and sunset cruises in the area.

Is Atlantic City or The Hamptons Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Atlantic City
The Hamptons

Atlantic City is a city with good options for backpackers. However, The Hamptons is a beach destination with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Atlantic City is a good city to visit for backpackers. There is a hostel in the area. You'll also find a younger crowd and plenty of partying.

The Hamptons is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. It's more popular with the rich and famous than it is with the budget crowd, so you may struggle to find an affordable place to stay, much less a hostel.


Is Atlantic City or The Hamptons Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Atlantic City
The Hamptons

Atlantic City is a city with good options for its public transit. However, The Hamptons is a beach destination with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Atlantic City, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The Jitney are shuttle buses that runs from one end of the city to the other. They pass by most of the hotels and casinos along Pacific Avenue.

Public transit is quite limited in The Hamptons. While there are trains between towns, there aren't many options when it comes to public transit.

Is Atlantic City or The Hamptons a more walkable city?

Atlantic City
The Hamptons

Atlantic City is a great destination for its walkability. Also, The Hamptons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Atlantic City is very walkable. Many of the hotels are walkable and located near the boardwalk.

The Hamptons is a somewhat walkable place. While some of the towns offer a nice place for a stroll, most of the Hamptons is not very walkable and it's best to have a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Atlantic City Worth Visiting? and Is The Hamptons Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in The Hamptons or Atlantic City?

How long in Atlantic City or The Hamptons?

Both Atlantic City and The Hamptons have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in The Hamptons than in Atlantic City. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Atlantic City, and 3-7 days is enough time in The Hamptons.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Atlantic City than The Hamptons 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 Atlantic City.


  • How many days in Atlantic City or The Hamptons? Ideal Length of Stay
    Atlantic City 1-3 
    The Hamptons 3-7

One day in Atlantic City or The Hamptons?

In Atlantic City, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this colorful city offers. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the wealthy destination of The Hamptons. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.


A weekend in Atlantic City or The Hamptons?

Atlantic City is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the nightlife. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in The Hamptons. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Five days in Atlantic City or The Hamptons?

You'll find nightlife and food around the colorful destination of Atlantic City. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the wealthy destination of The Hamptons. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This beach destination offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A week in Atlantic City or The Hamptons?

Atlantic City is a popular place to visit. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the beach destination of The Hamptons. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Historical Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, The Hamptons or Atlantic City?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Atlantic City is $154, while the average daily cost in The Hamptons is $223. 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 Atlantic City and The Hamptons in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Atlantic City $73
    The Hamptons $126
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Atlantic City $146
    The Hamptons $252
Compare Hotels in Atlantic City and The Hamptons

Looking for a hotel in Atlantic City or The Hamptons? 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 Atlantic City


Hotels in The Hamptons


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: Atlantic City Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Atlantic City $40
    The Hamptons $63

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Atlantic City

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Atlantic City:

  • Atlantic City International Airport One Way Transfer : $61

Is it cheaper to fly into Atlantic City or The Hamptons?

Prices for flights to both The Hamptons and Atlantic City 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
    Atlantic City $50
    The Hamptons $60

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Atlantic City $44
    The Hamptons $22

Tours and Activities in Atlantic City

Here are a few actual costs in Atlantic City for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Absecon Lighthouse Admission Ticket: $10
  • Sea Rocket Sunrise Cruise Overlooking Ocean City: $22
  • Sea Rocket Early Bird Speed Boat & Dolphin Cruise in Ocean City: $25
  • Sea Rocket Speed Boat & Dolphin Cruise in Ocean City: $25
  • Quiet Bay Cruise With Happy Hour Options: $27
  • Morning or Afternoon Skyline Ocean Cruise: $27
  • Atlantic City Adventure Scavenger Hunt: $27
  • Sunset Party Cruise with DJ: $33
  • Sea Rocket Sunset Cruise Overlooking Ocean City: $34
  • OC Bay Hopper - Sunset Cruise: $40
  • OC Bay Hopper - Ice Cream Cruise: $40
  • OC Bay Hopper Sunset Cruise (Departs West OC): $40

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Atlantic City $39
    The Hamptons $31

Sample the Local Flavors in Atlantic City

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Atlantic City:

  • Spirits tasting at Little Water Distillery: $15


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Atlantic City Expensive? and Is The Hamptons Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Atlantic City or The Hamptons?

Atlantic City has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of The Hamptons. When comparing the sizes of Atlantic City and The Hamptons, 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 Atlantic City or The Hamptons?

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 Atlantic City or The Hamptons in the Summer?

Both The Hamptons and Atlantic City are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Atlantic City for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to The Hamptons because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Atlantic City is around the same temperature as The Hamptons in the summer. The daily temperature in Atlantic City averages around 75°F (24°C) in July, and The Hamptons fluctuates around 76°F (25°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in The Hamptons. It's quite rainy in Atlantic City. In July, Atlantic City usually receives around the same amount of rain as The Hamptons. Atlantic City gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Atlantic City 75°F (24°C) 
    The Hamptons 76°F (25°C)

Should I visit Atlantic City or The Hamptons in the Autumn?

Both The Hamptons and Atlantic City during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Atlantic City because of the shopping scene. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to The Hamptons this time of year.

In the autumn, Atlantic City is around the same temperature as The Hamptons. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Atlantic City in October average around 56°F (13°C), and The Hamptons averages at about 58°F (14°C).

Atlantic City usually gets less rain in October than The Hamptons. Atlantic City gets 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Atlantic City 56°F (13°C) 
    The Hamptons 58°F (14°C)

Should I visit Atlantic City or The Hamptons in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Atlantic City and The Hamptons. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Atlantic City this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to The Hamptons for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in The Hamptons. It's quite cold in Atlantic City in the winter. In January, Atlantic City is generally around the same temperature as The Hamptons. Daily temperatures in Atlantic City average around 31°F (-0°C), and The Hamptons fluctuates around 31°F (-0°C).

In January, Atlantic City usually receives around the same amount of rain as The Hamptons. Atlantic City gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Atlantic City 31°F (-0°C) 
    The Hamptons 31°F (-0°C)

Should I visit Atlantic City or The Hamptons in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Atlantic City as well as The Hamptons. Many travelers come to Atlantic City for the beaches. Additionally, many visitors come to The Hamptons in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Atlantic City is around the same temperature as The Hamptons in the spring. The daily temperature in Atlantic City averages around 51°F (10°C) in April, and The Hamptons fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

Atlantic City usually gets less rain in April than The Hamptons. Atlantic City gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Atlantic City 51°F (10°C) 
    The Hamptons 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for The Hamptons and Atlantic City

Atlantic City The Hamptons
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 31°F (-0°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 31°F (-0°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Feb 33°F (1°C) 2.5 inches (64 mm) 33°F (1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Mar 42°F (6°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Apr 51°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 51°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
May 61°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Jun 70°F (21°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jul 75°F (24°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 76°F (25°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm)
Aug 74°F (23°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm)
Sep 67°F (19°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Oct 56°F (13°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm) 58°F (14°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Nov 46°F (8°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 47°F (9°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Dec 36°F (2°C) 3 inches (76 mm) 37°F (3°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)