A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Austin vs. Boston for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Music

Should you visit Austin or Boston?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Austin or Boston, 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.

Austin

Austin is a eccentric, unconventional, and lively city. It's also a big city with many activities. This is a very beautiful destination, too. It's also known for live music, food, and shopping.

Boston

Boston is a loyal, historic, and traditional city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Austin and Boston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Austin or Boston?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Boston. Although Austin and Boston are both popular with visitors, Boston has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Boston is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, beaches, historical sights, christmas markets, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Austin is known for its food, nightlife, music, and hiking. Boston is more touristy than Austin and is known for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. It is also home to The Freedom Trail. Austin is popular for its live music scene, excellent Texas barbecue, authentic Mexican food, and vibrant student population.

How is Austin different from Boston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Austin or Boston?

Boston is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Boston that are not to be missed. The city itself feels like a living museum. It is famous for Faneuil Hall, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabelle Stewart Gardner Museum, the USS Constitution, as well as the many sites along the Freedom Trail. There are also many museums on the campuses of the world renowned universities in the city.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Austin. Austin has a number of great museums and sights including the Blanton Museum of Art, the Mexic-Arte Museum, and the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum. There's also a huge supply of local art galleries. Perhaps the most notable landmark in town is the beautiful Texas Capital Building

Is Austin or Boston Better for Theater?

Boston is a great destination for theatre. However, Austin is not a theatre destination.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Boston. The city has many historic, beautifully restored theaters where you can enjoy a show. Head to the theater district for some of the most famous venues.

Austin is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Austin or Boston? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Austin is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Eat your way through Austin, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. It is credited with being the original food truck city and you'll find many diverse food truck options around town. There is also amazing Mexican food, world renowned Texas barbecue, and many modern restaurants that reflect the city's culinary influence.

Boston has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There are many local dishes that utilize fresh caught seafood and comfort food flavors. The cuisine also takes advantage of the city's Italian and Irish populations. Famous local foods include New England Clam Chowder, lobster rolls, and baked beans. You'll find hearty sandwiches and filling meals that warm your soul.

Is Austin or Boston Better for Nightlife?

Austin is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Austin is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. It's nightlife is centered around its thriving live music scene. Head for Sixth Street for some of the most popular bars and clubs. There are also many music festivals and outdoor concerts, particularly during the summer months. Popular bars and clubs around town include the White Horse, the Rose Room, and Antone's Nightclub.

Boston has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city is known for its breweries, craft beer, and vibrant university neighborhoods. It also hosts regular outdoor movies and world class sporting events. The nightlife scene is varied, with some areas catering to the student population and other areas focused on the professional or sport-loving crowds.

Is Austin or Boston Better for Music?

Austin is an unbeatable place for live music. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its live music scene.

Austin is a world class music destination. Music is what gives this city its character. There are many live music venues, concerts, and music festivals to experience. Austin has influenced many music genres such as rock, blues, jazz, hip hop, punk, and country.

The music scene in Boston is active and vibrant. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

Is Austin or Boston Better for Beaches?

Boston is a city with a few options for its beaches. However, Austin is not a beach destination.

Boston is a good spot to see the beach. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.

Austin is not a beach destination.

Is Austin or Boston Better for its Old Town?

Boston is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Austin does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Boston is revered around the world. Boston is famous for its Freedom Trail, which takes visitors around the city's rich history. The oldest parts of the city are known as Boston Proper and include the neighborhoods of Beacon Hill, Historic Downtown, the North End, and the West End.

Austin does not have a historic old town.

Is Austin or Boston Better for Hiking?

Austin is a moderate city for the nearby hiking options. However, Boston is not a hiking destination.

Austin has hiking trails if you want to get outside. Head just outside of town to explore a few great hiking spots right near town.

Boston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Austin or Boston?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Boston and Austin.

Austin is a great destination for shopping. There are a number of local boutiques around town where you can enjoy shopping.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Boston. Head to Back Bay for some of the best high end shops. There are luxury brands and boutique venues that sell local art or crafts.

Is Austin or Boston Better for Christmas?

Boston is a great destination for its Christmas activities. However, Austin does not offer Christmas activities.

Visitors come from all around to experience the Christmas activities in Boston. Christmas comes to life in the city with its Christmas Trees, holiday shows, and festivals.

Austin does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Austin or Boston Better for Christmas Markets?

Boston is a great destination for its Christmas markets. However, Austin does not offer Christmas markets.

Boston offers plenty of Christmas markets. There are a number of European style Christmas markets that pop up during the holiday season around town.

Austin does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Austin or Boston Better for Families?

Boston is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Boston is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. It's filled with history, but there are also many activities for kids who need a break from all of the historical stuff. Popular activities for all ages include the Museum of Science, the New England Aquarium, and exploring the waterfront, gardens, and parks around town.

Austin offers lots of family activities. The city is a popular destination for young travelers, but there are also some family-friendly activities like Barton Springs, Zilker Park, and several natural swimming holes. There's a number of nice parks around town that are great for kids of all ages.

Is Austin or Boston Better for Couples?

Austin and Boston are both good to visit as a couple.

Austin is a nice destination for couples. Young couples will enjoy the city for its lively nightlife, fun music scene, and youthful vibe. There are also many outdoor areas where you can hike or explore. The restaurant scene is among the best as well.

Boston makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy history will enjoy exploring the city. Take a swan boat ride in the Public Garden and wander the unique route along the Freedom Trail. There are also many sporting and entertainment options around town.

Is Austin or Boston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Austin is notable for backpackers. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Austin. Although the city is relatively small, it does see a disproportionate number of backpackers. There are a couple of hostels in town as well.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Boston. Like most larger American cities, the city has a handful of hostels to choose from.

Is Austin or Boston Better for Students?

Boston is a world-class destination for students. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Boston is a great destination for students. It is a city of students, with a number of world renowned universities located here including Harvard University, Boston College, and MIT. Many neighborhoods are filled with students and there are many student-centered activities around town including festivals and an active nightlife scene.

Students come from all over to stay in Austin. The city has a huge university, the University of Texas at Austin, and it is a young city with tons for international students. There is a great nightlife scene and plenty for students to see and do.

Is Austin or Boston Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Boston is a world-class destination for its public transit. However, Austin is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Boston can get you around easily. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

Public transit is mostly limited in Austin. There are city buses and a very limited lightrail system, but you really need a car to explore the city.

Is Austin or Boston a more walkable city?

Boston is a world-class destination for its walkability. However, Austin is a city with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Boston on foot is easy. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best explored on foot.

Austin is generally not a very walkable city. The city, like most southern cities, isn't very walkable and it's important to have a car to get around. There are some downtown areas that are pedestrian-friendly.

For even more information, also check out Is Austin Worth Visiting? and Is Boston Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Boston or Austin?

How long in Austin or Boston?

In either Austin or Boston, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Boston than Austin because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Austin, and 3-5 days is enough time in Boston.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Austin than Boston 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 Austin.

One day in Austin or Boston?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Austin. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Boston is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Austin or Boston?

Austin is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Boston is a great place to explore. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Austin or Boston?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Austin. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Boston. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Austin or Boston?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the entrepreneurial destination of Austin. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the museums and theater when visiting the historic big city of Boston. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, and The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Austin or Boston?

Austin has a larger population, and is about 15% larger than the population of Boston. When comparing the sizes of Austin and Boston, 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 Austin or Boston?

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 Austin or Boston in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Austin and Boston. Many travelers come to Austin for the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Boston in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Austin is a little warmer than Boston in the summer. The daily temperature in Austin averages around 87°F (30°C) in July, and Boston fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Boston this time of the year. In Austin, it's very sunny this time of the year. Austin usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Boston during summer. Austin gets 318 hours of sunny skies, while Boston receives 304 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Austin usually receives less rain than Boston. Austin gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Boston receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Austin or Boston in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Austin as well as Boston. Many visitors come to Austin 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. Additionally, most visitors come to Boston for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Austin is much warmer than Boston. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Austin in October average around 73°F (23°C), and Boston averages at about 54°F (12°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Austin this time of the year. In the autumn, Austin often gets more sunshine than Boston. Austin gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Boston receives 194 hours of full sun.

Austin usually gets less rain in October than Boston. Austin gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Boston receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Austin or Boston in the Winter?

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

The weather in Boston can be very cold. In January, Austin is generally much warmer than Boston. Daily temperatures in Austin average around 51°F (11°C), and Boston fluctuates around 29°F (-2°C).

Austin usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Boston during winter. Austin gets 163 hours of sunny skies, while Boston receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Austin usually receives less rain than Boston. Austin gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Boston receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Austin or Boston in the Spring?

Both Boston and Austin during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Austin because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Boston this time of year.

Austin is much warmer than Boston in the spring. The daily temperature in Austin averages around 71°F (22°C) in April, and Boston fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

In Boston, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Austin. In the spring, Austin often gets less sunshine than Boston. Austin gets 209 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Boston receives 225 hours of full sun.

Austin usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Boston. Austin gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Boston receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Boston and Austin