A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Auckland vs. San Francisco for Attractions, Food, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Auckland or San Francisco?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Auckland and San Francisco can help you decide which place is right for you.

Auckland

Auckland is a cosmopolitan , adventurous, and adrenaline-filled city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Auckland travel costs.

San Francisco

San Francisco is a eccentric, one-of-a-kind, and scenic coastal city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. San Francisco is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and theater. See San Francisco travel costs.

Auckland and San Francisco: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Golden Gate Bridge


Is there more to do in Auckland or San Francisco?

Travelers will usually find more to do in San Francisco than Auckland, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. San Francisco is more popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, music, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Auckland is known for its nightlife. San Francisco is more touristy than Auckland and is known for its striking bayfront setting, stunning urban hikes, quirky personality, and reputation within the tech industry. It is also home to The Golden Gate Bridge. Auckland is popular for its waterfront setting, diverse beaches, and active and adrenaline-filled environment.

How is Auckland different from San Francisco?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Auckland or San Francisco?

Auckland
San Francisco

San Francisco is a must-visit destination for its museums and history. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in San Francisco are world-renowned. The city's landmarks are as diverse as the people who live there. The most recognizable landmark is the famous Golden Gate Bridge, but visitors also enjoy seeing Alcatraz Island, the Legion of Honor, the Palace of Fine Arts, as well as the small but fascinating Cable Car Museum.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Auckland can be an interesting and educational experience. The waterfront is filled with sights for tourists, and many of the city's attractions are geared towards thrill seekers. The Sky Tower is a popular landmark with its Sky Walk and Sky Jump. There are also many thrilling experiences that you can have along the Harbour Bridge. For museums, head to the New Zealand Maritime Museum, the Auckland Art Gallery, or the Auckland War Memorial Museum.


Is Auckland or San Francisco Better for Theater?

Auckland
San Francisco

San Francisco is very good for its theatre productions. However, Auckland is not a theatre destination.

You'll find a nice selection of shows in San Francisco. The city has around a dozen theaters where you can enjoy musicals or plays.

Auckland is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Auckland or San Francisco? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Auckland
San Francisco

San Francisco is a must-visit destination for its restaurants. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

San Francisco has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. There are local dives as well as five star restaurants, with everything in between. Popular local dining experiences include sourdough bread bowls and Dungeness crab at Fisherman's Wharf, and dim sum in Chinatown. Head away from the touristy neighborhoods if you want to sample some of the more local restaurants around town.

Dining out in Auckland is an experience not to be missed. The city has a diverse selection of restaurants, but you'll also find many places that highlight local ingredients such as seafood and lamb. You'll often find the standard dishes such as fish and chips, oysters, and green-lipped mussels on the menus.

Is Auckland or San Francisco Better for Nightlife?

Auckland
San Francisco

Auckland is a great city for its evening party scene. Also, San Francisco is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for nightlife.

The nightlife in Auckland has something for everybody. The city has a cosmopolitan atmosphere and there are many bars and clubs that you can explore in the evening. Some of the best nightlife options are found in the vibrant Britomart precinct and around the trendy Ponsonby Road. Other popular areas include Viaduct Harbour and Wynyard Quarter.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in San Francisco. It has a great nightlife with many local bars and trendy clubs. For the best nightlife away from the tourists, head to Valencia Street or Polk Street. If you want to be in a more touristy area, check out Union Square. Popular clubs in the city include Temple San Francisco, Monarch, and Audio Nightclub.


Is Auckland or San Francisco Better for Music?

Auckland
San Francisco

San Francisco is very good for its live music scene. However, Auckland is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in San Francisco. Well known music venues include the Great American Music Hall, Slim's, and The Chapel.

Auckland is not a live music destination.

Is Auckland or San Francisco Better for Beaches?

Auckland
San Francisco

Auckland and San Francisco are excellent choices for a beach vacation.

Auckland is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. You don't have to head too far from the city to find some impressive beaches that are diverse and beautiful. There are beaches that are secluded and private as well as more lively beaches with all of the amenities and activities that you might want.

You'll have a great beach vacation in San Francisco. Whether you're interested in surfing or simply taking in the dramatic views, the beaches of San Francisco will take your breath away. Some of the best beaches include Ocean Beach, Baker Beach, and Muir Beach.

Is Auckland or San Francisco Better for Hiking?

Auckland
San Francisco

San Francisco is a must-visit destination for its hiking trails. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many people visit San Francisco specifically for its hiking. The city's hikes take in the dramatic views of the bay and city. Just outside of town there are also countless hikes through the Redwoods and along the coastline. Popular hikes in the area include Lands End, Tomales Point Trail at Point Reyes National Seashore, and Muir Woods.

Auckland has hiking trails worth exploring. Locals love to get outdoors, and you'll find many local hikes in the area. There are easy paths that are family-friendly and perfect for a stroll, as well as longer stretches that present more of a challenge.


Is the Shopping Better in Auckland or San Francisco?

Auckland
San Francisco

San Francisco is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, San Francisco draws large crowds to its stores. The city has excellent shopping from local vendors to recognizable brands. Union Square, Embarcadero, Fillmore Street and Haight Street are some of the best neighborhoods for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Auckland. The city centre is cosmopolitan and full of diverse shopping venues that sell international brands as well as local designers. Some of the most popular shopping areas are Britomart, High Street, and Queen Street.

Is Auckland or San Francisco More Beautiful?

Auckland
San Francisco

San Francisco is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Auckland is not a destination known for its beauty.

San Francisco is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. With its dramatic Golden Gate Bridge, and the many beautiful hills with striking views of the city and bay, San Francisco is one of the most beautiful cities in the United States.

Auckland is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Auckland or San Francisco Better for Families?

Auckland
San Francisco

San Francisco is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

San Francisco is one of the most popular family destinations. With its many outdoor parks, hiking trails, beaches, and kid-friendly museums, this city makes a great family-friendly destination. There are also many amazing playgrounds with stunning views of the bay and city. Head to Chinatown for some unique and kid-friendly food, or down to Pier 39 for fun activities that the whole family can enjoy.

Auckland is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There's a big focus on getting kids outside in the city, so you'll find many outdoor parks and play spaces. Popular activities for families include visiting the Huia Lodge Discovery Centre, going to the Museum of Transport and Technology, and wandering through the botanical garden.


Is Auckland or San Francisco Better for Couples?

Auckland
San Francisco

Both Auckland and San Francisco are excellent destinations to visit as a couple.

Auckland makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many romantic restaurants in the city, as well as spas, cocktail bars, and evening venues. Couples will also enjoy one of the many thrill-seeking activities that New Zealand is famous for.

Couples visit San Francisco frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples enjoy the romantic backdrop of this beautiful city. There are world-class restaurants and plenty of spas that couples can enjoy during a honeymoon or romantic getaway. There are also many scenic walks and breathtaking views that couples can appreciate.

Is Auckland or San Francisco Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Auckland
San Francisco

Auckland and San Francisco are both excellent destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Auckland. Auckland is high on many backpackers' wish list, and usually they pass through the city at some point during their trip. You'll find a number of hostels in the city that are perfect for socializing and saving money.

San Francisco is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The city is one of the more backpacker friendly cities in the United States. There are a handful of hostels throughout, many concentrated in the popular Union Square and Downtown neighborhoods of the city.

Is Auckland or San Francisco Better for Students?

Auckland
San Francisco

Both Auckland and San Francisco are excellent destinations for students.

Auckland is very popular with students. Some of the country's best universities are found in the city, many of which are popular with international students.

San Francisco is a great city to visit as a student. As a large and dynamic city, the area is popular with international students who want to experience this unique side of the United States. Major universities in the area include University of San Francisco, San Francisco State University, and nearby, the University of California, Berkeley.


Is Auckland or San Francisco Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Auckland
San Francisco

San Francisco is a must-visit destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

San Francisco has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The transit network includes a subway (the BART), trams, cable cars, ferries, and buses.

You'll find some public transit in Auckland, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a mishmash of different public transit options, and trips often include a variety of modes of transport. In the city you'll find ferries, trains, and buses to help you get around.

Is Auckland or San Francisco a more walkable city?

Auckland
San Francisco

San Francisco is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. However, Auckland is lacking in options for its ease of walking around.

San Francisco is a very walkable coastal city. It is compact enough to explore on foot, but given the large hills, it's a bit of a challenge, even for the most fit among us.

Auckland is generally not very walkable. It is a very car-centric city and it can be challenging to explore on foot alone.

For even more information, also check out Is Auckland Worth Visiting? and Is San Francisco Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Francisco or Auckland?

How long in Auckland or San Francisco?

Both Auckland and San Francisco have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in San Francisco than in Auckland. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Auckland, and 3-7 days is enough time in San Francisco.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Francisco than Auckland 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 San Francisco.


  • How many days in Auckland or San Francisco? Ideal Length of Stay
    Auckland 2-3 
    San Francisco 3-7

One day in Auckland or San Francisco?

Auckland is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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.

The beautiful coastal city of San Francisco offers shopping and museums. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Auckland or San Francisco?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Auckland. Most people come for the beaches. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

San Francisco is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Auckland or San Francisco?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the adventurous big city of Auckland. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

San Francisco is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in San Francisco, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Auckland or San Francisco?

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Auckland. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

San Francisco is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that San Francisco has to offer. This coastal city offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in New Zealand, The Best 10-Day Tours in New Zealand, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, and The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, San Francisco or Auckland?

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

  • Auckland Prices
    New Zealand Prices
    San Francisco Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Auckland $142
    San Francisco $256

The average daily cost (per person) in Auckland is $142, while the average daily cost in San Francisco is $256. 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 Auckland and San Francisco in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Auckland $90
    San Francisco $130
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Auckland $180
    San Francisco $260
Compare Hotels in Auckland and San Francisco

Looking for a hotel in Auckland or San Francisco? 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 Auckland


Hotels in San Francisco


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: Auckland Hotel Prices and San Francisco Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Auckland $16
    San Francisco $16
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Auckland

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


  • Bus from Airport
    $9.72
  • Airport Shuttle
    $15

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Auckland

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

  • From Hobbiton Private Transfers with Group Tour: $389
  • Auckland Airport (AKL): Private Transfer to Downtown hotels: $354
  • Auckland Airport (AKL): Transfer to North Shore hotels: $328
  • Auckland Half Day Tour to Airport Transfer: $245
  • Auckland Airport to Whangaparaoa - Gulf Harbour Luxury Transfers: $234
  • Private Transfer From Auckland Airport To Cambridge : $215
  • [Stevong] Private Transfer from Auckland Airport /City to Rotorua: $185
  • From One-Way Transfer to Rotorua w/ Hobbiton Tour: $179
  • Auckland's premium luxury transfers from/to Airport / North Shore: $172
  • Private Luxury Transfer Frm Cruise Ship to Airport: $167
  • Private Luxury Transfer To/Fr City in Mercedes Van: $167
  • Luxury Airport Transfer in First Class Passenger Van: $164

Typical Local Transportation Prices in San Francisco

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


  • Taxi to SFO
    $45
  • Golden Gate Bridge Toll
    $6.00
  • Alcatraz Tour
    $30

Hired Cars and Shuttles in San Francisco

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

  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer in San Francisco HTL-APT (SFO): $104
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer in San Francisco APT-HTL (SFO): $104
  • Sedan Airport Transfer from Walnut Creek to SFO (one way): $269
  • San Francisco:SFO Airport Private Hotel Transfer: $89
  • Silicon Valley Private Tour with Transfers: $510
  • SFO Airport to Napa Valley Private Transfer: $425
  • SFO Airport Private Transfer to Downtown: $120
  • Private Transfer from SFO Airport to downtown: $65
  • Private One-Way Transfer From/To SFO: $67
  • Private Airport Transfer: $375
  • One Way Private Airport Transfer Service: $95
  • San Francisco to/from Yosemite National Park: 1-Way Transfer: $169

Is it cheaper to fly into Auckland or San Francisco?

Prices for flights to both San Francisco and Auckland 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
    Auckland $27
    San Francisco $79
Typical Food Prices in Auckland

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


  • Breakfast
    $4.86

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Auckland

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

  • Auckland:: Japanese Home Cooking: $79
  • Auckland Harbour 3-Course Dinner Cruise with Welcome Drink: $96
  • Auckland Harbour Sailboat Cruise Including Three Course Dinner: $98
  • Flavours of the City Walking Food Tour: $105
  • Private Street Food Tour of Auckland with a Local Guide: $160

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in San Francisco

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

  • Online Cooking Class Beijing Dumplings by Chef Sunflower Li: $25
  • North Beach and Little Italy Food Tour: $79
  • Buffet Lunch or Dinner Cruise on the Bay: $82
  • Mission District Food Tour with Tastings: $85
  • Secret Food Tours San Francisco: $87
  • North Beach and Chinatown Walking Secret Food Tour: $89
  • San Francisco North Beach Food Tour: $99
  • San Francisco Chinatown Food Tour: $99
  • Mission: Street Art & Food Tour in San Francisco: $99
  • Chinatown Walking Food Tour: $99
  • Mission District Walking Food Tour: $99
  • Secret Food Tour of North Beach and Chinatown: $100

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Auckland $28
    San Francisco $46
Typical Entertainment Prices in Auckland

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


  • Auckland Sky Tour (for 2)
    $34
  • Waiheke Island Tour (for 2)
    $122

Tours and Activities in Auckland

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

  • Hobbiton Movie Set Small Tour from Auckland: $255
  • 2-Hour Stand-Up Paddle Boarding Tour to Lucas Creek Waterfall: $68
  • 6 Hours Sightseeing Tour in Auckland: $129
  • Afternoon Piha Beach and Rainforest Tour from Auckland: $120
  • America’s Cup 2-Hour Sailing Experience Waitemata Harbour: $117
  • Auckland Bioluminescence Kayak Tour: $68
  • Auckland CBD: Escape Game Adventure: $24
  • Auckland Canyoning Rainforest Adventure: $146
  • Auckland City & West Coast Luxury Tour: $206
  • Auckland City Highlights Full Day Tour: $185
  • Auckland City Highlights Full Day Tour: $179
  • Auckland City Highlights Half Day Tour: $105

Tours and Activities in San Francisco

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

  • Muir Woods and Sausalito Morning Tour Small-Group Half Day: $99
  • 1 Hour Tram Trolley Tour from Ferry to Pier 39 in San Francisco: $9.00
  • 1.5-Hour San Francisco Bay Sailing Tour: $99
  • 2-Hour Interactive Sailing Experience on San Francisco Bay: $149
  • 2-Hour Sunset Sailing Experience on San Francisco Bay: $145
  • 2hr - INTERACTIVE Sailing Experience on San Francisco Bay: $149
  • 2hr - SUNSET Sailing Experience on San Francisco Bay: $149
  • 2hr PRIVATE Sailing Experience on San Francisco Bay 6 Guests: $795
  • 3 Hour Sightseeing Small Group Guided Tour in San Francisco: $89
  • 30-40 Minute Airplane San Francisco Bay Flight Tour: $279
  • 8 Course Nano-Brewed Liqueur Experience by an SF Native: $100
  • 90-Minute Sunset Tour Aboard Wine Therapy: $95

For more ideas for your next trip, check out The Best Museums in San Francisco, The Best Outdoor Activities in San Francisco, and Things to Do In San Francisco on a Rainy Day.


Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Auckland $14
    San Francisco $22

Sample the Local Flavors in Auckland

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

  • Ultimate Late Night Bar Crawl: $21
  • Full-Day Wine Tasting Tour in Auckland with 3-Course Vineyard Lunch: $105
  • Waiheke Island: Scenic Wine Tour Tasting Wines on Waiheke: $111
  • Waiheke Island: The Essence of Waiheke Wine Tour: $140
  • Waiheke Island: Tour with Wine Tastings and Restaurant Lunch: $149
  • From Waiheke Island Wine Tasting Tour with Lunch: $152
  • Waiheke Island Gourmet Food and Wine Tour with Platter Lunch: $164
  • From Small Group Kumeu Wine Tour with Lunch: $179
  • Kumeu Wineries / Brewery : $182
  • Scenic Wine Tastings Tour with Lunch: $209
  • City Tour with Wine Tasting and Black Sand Beach: $209
  • Auckland Coastal Experience - Small Group City & Beach Tour Incl. Wine Tasting: $215

Sample the Local Flavors in San Francisco

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

  • Private Self Guided Tour and Bar Crawl in Chinatown San Francisco: $5.00
  • SF Pub Crawl and Clubbing Experience: $27
  • Ghosts, Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Walk with Spirits: A Haunted Pub Crawl in San Francisco: $45
  • Wine Tasting on the Bay: $85
  • Big Bus Napa and Sonoma Valley Wine Tour: $125
  • Half-Day Wine Country Tour with Wine Tastings: $126
  • From The Ultimate Napa and Sonoma Wine Tour: $139
  • From Napa & Sonoma Valley Full-Day Wine Tour: $140
  • San Francisco Shore Excursion: Napa & Sonoma Ultimate Wine Tour: $149
  • Napa and Sonoma Valley Wine Tour: $155
  • From Napa/Sonoma Wine Tour & 2-Day Hop-on Hop-off: $169


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

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


Which is Bigger, Auckland or San Francisco?

San Francisco has a larger population, and is about 75% larger than the population of Auckland. When comparing the sizes of Auckland and San Francisco, 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 Auckland or San Francisco?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Auckland is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but San Francisco has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Auckland or San Francisco in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Auckland and San Francisco. The beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Auckland this time of year. Also, many travelers come to San Francisco for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Auckland is a little warmer than San Francisco. Typically, the summer temperatures in Auckland in January average around 20°C (68°F), and San Francisco averages at about 63°F (17°C)in July.

In January, Auckland usually receives more rain than San Franciscoin July. Auckland gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while San Francisco receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures January and July
    Auckland 20°C (68°F) 
    San Francisco 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Auckland or San Francisco in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Auckland as well as San Francisco. Many travelers come to Auckland for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to San Francisco in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In April, Auckland is generally around the same temperature as San Franciscoin October. Daily temperatures in Auckland average around 16°C (61°F), and San Francisco fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

Auckland usually gets more rain in April than San Franciscoin October. Auckland gets 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while San Francisco receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures April and October
    Auckland 16°C (61°F) 
    San Francisco 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Auckland or San Francisco in the Winter?

Both San Francisco and Auckland are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Auckland in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to San Francisco for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

Auckland is around the same temperature as San Francisco in the winter. The daily temperature in Auckland averages around 11°C (52°F) in July, and San Francisco fluctuates around 50°F (10°C)in January.

It's quite rainy in Auckland. In July, Auckland usually receives more rain than San Franciscoin January. Auckland gets 135 mm (5.3 in) of rain, while San Francisco receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures July and January
    Auckland 11°C (52°F) 
    San Francisco 50°F (10°C)

Should I visit Auckland or San Francisco in the Spring?

Both San Francisco and Auckland during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Auckland for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to San Francisco because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Auckland is around the same temperature as San Francisco. Typically, the spring temperatures in Auckland in October average around 14°C (58°F), and San Francisco averages at about 58°F (14°C)in April.

Auckland usually gets more rain in October than San Franciscoin April. Auckland gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while San Francisco receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures October and April
    Auckland 14°C (58°F) 
    San Francisco 58°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for San Francisco and Auckland

Auckland San Francisco
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 20°C (68°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 50°F (10°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 20°C (68°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 19°C (66°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 16°C (61°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 58°F (14°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 14°C (57°F) 92 mm (3.6 in) 60°F (15°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 12°C (53°F) 116 mm (4.6 in) 62°F (17°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 11°C (52°F) 135 mm (5.3 in) 63°F (17°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 11°C (53°F) 108 mm (4.3 in) 64°F (18°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 13°C (55°F) 97 mm (3.8 in) 66°F (19°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 14°C (58°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 63°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 16°C (61°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 57°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 18°C (65°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)