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

Should you visit Austin or Monterey?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Austin or Monterey, 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 unconventional, lively, and entrepreneurial city. With a variety of activities, it's a big city. This is beautiful destination to visit. It's also popular because of the live music, food, and shopping.

Monterey

Monterey is a laid back, relaxing, and nature-oriented city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Austin and Monterey: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Austin or Monterey?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Austin than Monterey, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Austin is better known for its food, nightlife, music, hiking, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Monterey is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. Monterey is more touristy than Austin and is popular for its rugged coastline, diverse marine life, and excellent seafood. Austin is well known for its live music scene, excellent Texas barbecue, authentic Mexican food, and vibrant student population. Also, Austin is famous for The Texas Capital.

How is Austin different from Monterey?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Monterey 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 Monterey?

Both Austin and Monterey have great landmarks and museums for visitors.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Austin can be an interesting and educational experience. 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

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Monterey. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a not-to-be-missed destination in town. You can also visit the Monterey State Historic Park or the Monterey Museum of Art.

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

Austin is an amazing city to visit for its restaurants. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Monterey makes for a great culinary experience. Seafood and local produce are what make the food special. There are many great restaurants to you can choose from that will let you enjoy the classic seafood dishes like clam chowder or oysters, as well as fresh artichokes and local wine.

Is Austin or Monterey Better for Nightlife?

Austin is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Austin has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

Monterey is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There's a buzzing atmosphere at night with bars, breweries, and casual eateries all coming to life. Some of the best venues are found at the Old Fisherman's Wharf and along Alvarado Street.

Is Austin or Monterey Better for Music?

Austin is an amazing city to visit for its music scene. However, Monterey is not a live music destination.

Austin has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. 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.

Monterey is not a live music destination.

Is Austin or Monterey Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Monterey is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Austin is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Monterey has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. Scuba diving offers an unforgettable experience. The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary gives you the unique experience of seeing sea lions, otters, kelp forests, crabs, and more.

Austin is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Austin or Monterey Better for Beaches?

Monterey is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Austin is not a beach destination.

Monterey has a beach worth visiting. The beaches highlight the laid by California vibe with sunbathers and beachgoers soaking up the atmosphere. There are both inlets and sandy beaches where you can see sea lions or explore the tidal pools.

Austin is not a beach destination.

Is Austin or Monterey Better for Hiking?

Austin is a decent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Monterey is not a hiking destination.

Hiking is a fun activity while in Austin. Head just outside of town to explore a few great hiking spots right near town.

Monterey is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Austin or Monterey?

Monterey is a great destination for shopping. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Monterey is an extremely popular place for shoppers. You'll find both local vendors and tourist shops around town. Cannery Row is a popular destination, as is Old Fisherman's Wharf and the Old Farmer's Market.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Austin. There are a number of local boutiques around town where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Austin or Monterey Better for Families?

Monterey 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.

Monterey is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. Monterey Bay Aquarium is a highlight for kids and adults alike. There's also the Monterey Zoo as well as lighthearted activities like a mirror maze. MY Museum is an interactive museum that's perfect for younger kids. There are also whale watching trips and nearby beaches.

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 Monterey Better for Couples?

Monterey is a great destination for romance. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Monterey frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are many romantic inns in town as well as quaint restaurants and fun activities. There are also spas, wine bars, and plenty of shopping for couples to enjoy as well.

Austin makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Is Austin or Monterey Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Austin is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers 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 Monterey. There's a hostel in town as well as fun activities that will appeal to backpackers.

Is Austin or Monterey Better for Students?

Austin is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Monterey is not popular with students.

Many students visit 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.

Monterey is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Austin and Monterey.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Monterey. There is a bus system through the area.

Is Austin or Monterey a more walkable city?

Monterey is a great destination for its walkability. However, Austin is a city with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

Monterey is very walkable. If you stay near the town center, it's very walkable and easy to get around 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 Monterey Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Monterey or Austin?

How long in Austin or Monterey?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Austin and Monterey. You can spend similar amounts of time exploring each one. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Austin, and 1-3 days is enough time in Monterey.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Austin than Monterey 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 Monterey?

The city of Austin offers museums and nightlife. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Monterey. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Austin or Monterey?

Austin is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Austin, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Monterey 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.

Five days in Austin or Monterey?

Austin is a popular choice for travelers. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Monterey. 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.

A week in Austin or Monterey?

Austin is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the laid back destination of Monterey. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 Monterey, we can see that Monterey 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 Monterey would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Monterey 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 Monterey Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Austin or Monterey?

Austin has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Monterey. When comparing the sizes of Austin and Monterey, 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 Monterey?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Austin or Monterey in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Austin as well as Monterey. Many travelers come to Austin for the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Monterey in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Austin is generally much warmer than Monterey. Daily temperatures in Austin average around 87°F (30°C), and Monterey fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

Austin usually gets more rain in July than Monterey. Austin gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Austin or Monterey in the Autumn?

Both Monterey and Austin are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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. Also, most visitors come to Monterey for the shopping scene during these months.

Austin is a little warmer than Monterey in the autumn. The daily temperature in Austin averages around 73°F (23°C) in October, and Monterey fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

In October, Austin usually receives more rain than Monterey. Austin gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Austin or Monterey in the Winter?

Both Monterey and Austin during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Austin for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Monterey because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Austin is around the same temperature as Monterey. Typically, the winter temperatures in Austin in January average around 51°F (11°C), and Monterey averages at about 51°F (11°C).

Austin usually gets less rain in January than Monterey. Austin gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Austin or Monterey in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Austin and Monterey. The spring months attract visitors to Austin because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the beaches are the main draw to Monterey this time of year.

In April, Austin is generally much warmer than Monterey. Daily temperatures in Austin average around 71°F (22°C), and Monterey fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

In April, Austin usually receives more rain than Monterey. Austin gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Monterey and Austin