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

Should you visit Austin or Nantucket?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Austin or Nantucket, 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 entrepreneurial, eccentric, and unconventional city. It's also a big city with many activities. This is beautiful destination to visit. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Nantucket

Nantucket is a peaceful, upscale, and charming island. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Austin and Nantucket: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Austin or Nantucket?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Austin. Although Austin and Nantucket are both popular with visitors, Austin has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Austin is more popular for its museums, nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Nantucket is known for its resorts, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Nantucket is more touristy than Austin and is popular for its pristine beaches, upscale atmosphere, and history of whaling. Austin is popular for its live music scene, excellent Texas barbecue, authentic Mexican food, and vibrant student population. It is also home to The Texas Capital.

How is Austin different from Nantucket?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Austin
Nantucket

Austin is a great city for its historical sights. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its sights and museums.

Many visitors head to Austin specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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

Nantucket offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several museums around town that educate visitors on the island's whaling history and maritime past.


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

Austin
Nantucket

Foodies will find both Austin and Nantucket both to be terrific destinations.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Austin is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

Many restaurants in Nantucket have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Upscale eateries where you can look out on the water make dining on this island a true experience. There are raw bars, seafood restaurants, and local cafes with elaborate salads and duck carnitas. Dishes usually use the highest quality fresh ingredients and chefs bring their "A game" with every customer.

Is Austin or Nantucket Better for Nightlife?

Austin
Nantucket

Austin is renowned for nightlife. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for nightlife and partying.

Austin is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Nantucket. You'll find a number of bars and a lively singles scene in town. There's also live music and a laid back but active atmosphere in the evening.

Is Austin or Nantucket Better for Music?

Austin
Nantucket

Austin is renowned for live music. However, Nantucket is not a live music destination.

Austin is known as a music capital 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.

Nantucket is not a live music destination.


Is Austin or Nantucket Better for Resorts?

Austin
Nantucket

Nantucket is a great destination for its resorts. However, Austin is not a resort destination.

Nantucket is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Luxury resorts and upscale inns offer guests a relaxed setting with oceanfront views and family-friendly activities.

Austin is not a resort destination.

Is Austin or Nantucket Better for Beaches?

Austin
Nantucket

Nantucket is a great destination for its beaches. However, Austin is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Nantucket. You'll find the calmest water at the northern beaches, and cooler water with rougher surf to the south. Many of the beaches are accessible from town, but parking can be limited. There are both public and private beaches, each with beautiful settings and relaxing vibes.

Austin is not a beach destination.

Is Austin or Nantucket Better for its Old Town?

Austin
Nantucket

Nantucket is a great destination for its historic old town. However, Austin does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Nantucket to see the historical old town. The Historic District is filled with New England charm, cobblestone streets, and upscale boutiques. There are many great restaurants and a lot of historic character.

Austin does not have a historic old town.


Is Austin or Nantucket Better for Hiking?

Austin
Nantucket

Nantucket is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Austin is a city with minimal options for hiking.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Nantucket. The island is easy to explore on foot, and its covered with hiking trails that follow the serene coastline or take you through forests, bogs, and marshland.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Austin. Head just outside of town to explore a few great hiking spots right near town.

Is the Shopping Better in Austin or Nantucket?

Austin
Nantucket

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

Nantucket is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The Historic District is filled with boutiques, art galleries, and upscale shops. It's the perfect place to spend an afternoon wandering around and shopping.

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 Nantucket Better for Families?

Austin
Nantucket

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

Nantucket is a very family-friendly place to visit. There's a calm beach that's perfect for kids as well as quaint ice cream shops and plenty of New England charm. The town is also filled with hiking and biking trails.

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 Nantucket Better for Couples?

Austin
Nantucket

Nantucket is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Nantucket has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The New England charm, natural beauty, and relaxing coastal atmosphere make this a perfect romantic destination. There are also many romantic places to stay and great local restaurants.

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 Nantucket Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Austin
Nantucket

Austin is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Nantucket is not known for backpackers.

Austin is very popular with the backpacker crowd. Although the city is relatively small, it does see a disproportionate number of backpackers. There are a couple of hostels in town as well.

Nantucket is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's known for its upscale atmosphere that isn't particularly accommodating for backpackers.

Is Austin or Nantucket Better for Students?

Austin
Nantucket

Austin is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Nantucket is not popular with students.

Austin is very popular with students. 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.

Nantucket is not popular with students.


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

Austin
Nantucket

Nantucket is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Austin is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Nantucket, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are shuttle buses around the island that operate with greater frequency during the summer months.

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 Nantucket a more walkable city?

Austin
Nantucket

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

Nantucket is very walkable. The town is very walkable and parking can be challenging, so it's best to leave your car in the ferry parking lot.

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 Nantucket Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nantucket or Austin?

How long in Austin or Nantucket?

It's fun to spend time in either Austin or Nantucket. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Nantucket due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Austin, and 2-4 days is enough time in Nantucket.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Austin or Nantucket? Ideal Length of Stay
    Austin 2-3 
    Nantucket 2-4

One day in Austin or Nantucket?

You'll find nightlife and live music around the city of Austin. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Nantucket might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Austin or Nantucket?

You'll find live music and food around the entrepreneurial destination of Austin. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Nantucket is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. 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 Nantucket?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the entrepreneurial city of Austin. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nantucket. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Nantucket?

Austin is a popular choice for travelers. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Nantucket is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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.


Which place is cheaper, Nantucket or Austin?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Austin is $142, while the average daily cost in Nantucket is $350. 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 Austin and Nantucket in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Austin $56
    Nantucket $237
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Austin $112
    Nantucket $474
Compare Hotels in Austin and Nantucket

Looking for a hotel in Austin or Nantucket? 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 Austin


Hotels in Nantucket


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: Austin Hotel Prices and Nantucket Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Austin $47
    Nantucket $47

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Austin

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Austin:

  • Austin Airport Group Pickup / Transfer up to 1 hour away.: $150
  • Austin-Bergstrom Airport (AUS) to Austin City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $96
  • Private Transfer Between Airport and Hotels: $80

Is it cheaper to fly into Austin or Nantucket?

Prices for flights to both Nantucket and Austin 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
    Austin $35
    Nantucket $81

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Austin

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Austin.

  • Famous Texas BBQ & Food Tour in Austin: $89
  • Famous Texas BBQ & Food Tour in Austin: $89
  • Austin South Congress Walking Food Tour for Small Groups: $95
  • Secret Food Tour: $97
  • Austin Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $99
  • Secret Food Tour of South Congress: $107
  • The Brunch Bus: Food Tour with a Live Band on Board the Bus!: $125
  • Private Guided Food Tour of Austin Neighborhoods: $150

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Austin $28
    Nantucket $34
Typical Entertainment Prices in Austin

Here are a few typical costs in Austin for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Austin Duck Tour
    $31

Tours and Activities in Austin

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

  • Austin Glass Bottom Kayak Tour with Olympian: $50
  • Afternoon in Austin Segway Tour: $99
  • Austin Art & Architecture Bicycle Tour: $56
  • Austin Biker Gang E-Bike Tour: $90
  • Austin Boat Tour with Full Sun Shading Available: $84
  • Austin Breakfast Taco Tour: $85
  • Austin E-Bike Brunch Tour : $118
  • Austin E-Bike Foodie Tour : $128
  • Austin Electric Bike Tour: Let it Ride: $70
  • Austin Family Explorer Private Magical Urban Adventure Tour: $232
  • Austin Family Explorer: A Magical Urban Adventure: $452
  • Austin Good Vibes E-Bike Tours with Rooster: $68

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Austin $28
    Nantucket $35

Sample the Local Flavors in Austin

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Austin:

  • Austin Bar Hunt: Sixth Street Spree: Austin Bar Crawl: $12
  • Austin Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30
  • Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30
  • Downtown Austin Live Music Pub Crawl: $35
  • Downtown Live Music Pub Crawl: $35
  • Austin Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $44
  • From Texas Hill Country Brewery & Distillery Shuttle: $65
  • Private Austin Brewery Tour by Pedicab with All-Inclusive Beer Flight Option: $70
  • 4-Hour Austin Signature Brewery Tour: $100
  • The Brew Bus: Austin Brewery Tour with Live Band: $125
  • Half-Day Private Texas Hill Country Wine Tour from Austin: $143
  • Brewery 5K Fun Run, BBQ, and Texas History Museum in Austin : $175


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Austin and Nantucket, we can see that Nantucket 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 Nantucket would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Nantucket 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 Nantucket Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Austin or Nantucket?

Austin has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Nantucket. When comparing the sizes of Austin and Nantucket, 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 Nantucket?

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 Nantucket in the Summer?

Both Nantucket and Austin during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Austin for the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Nantucket because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Austin is much warmer than Nantucket in the summer. The daily temperature in Austin averages around 87°F (30°C) in July, and Nantucket fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

Austin usually gets less rain in July than Nantucket. Austin gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Austin 87°F (30°C) 
    Nantucket 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Austin or Nantucket in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Austin and Nantucket. The autumn months attract visitors to Austin because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Nantucket this time of year.

In the autumn, Austin is much warmer than Nantucket. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Austin in October average around 73°F (23°C), and Nantucket averages at about 53°F (12°C).

Nantucket receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Austin usually receives less rain than Nantucket. Austin gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Austin 73°F (23°C) 
    Nantucket 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit Austin or Nantucket in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Austin as well as Nantucket. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Austin this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Nantucket for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Nantucket. In January, Austin is generally much warmer than Nantucket. Daily temperatures in Austin average around 51°F (11°C), and Nantucket fluctuates around 31°F (-0°C).

It's quite rainy in Nantucket. Austin usually gets less rain in January than Nantucket. Austin gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Austin 51°F (11°C) 
    Nantucket 31°F (-0°C)

Should I visit Austin or Nantucket in the Spring?

Both Nantucket and Austin are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Austin for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Nantucket in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Austin is much warmer than Nantucket in the spring. The daily temperature in Austin averages around 71°F (22°C) in April, and Nantucket fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nantucket. In April, Austin usually receives less rain than Nantucket. Austin gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Austin 71°F (22°C) 
    Nantucket 45°F (7°C)

Typical Weather for Nantucket and Austin

Austin Nantucket
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 51°F (11°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 31°F (-0°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Feb 55°F (13°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 32°F (-0°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm)
Mar 63°F (17°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (102 mm)
Apr 71°F (22°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 45°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)
May 77°F (25°C) 4 inches (101 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Jun 83°F (29°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jul 87°F (30°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Aug 87°F (31°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Sep 82°F (28°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 62°F (17°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Oct 73°F (23°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 53°F (12°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2 inches (52 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Dec 54°F (12°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 36°F (2°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)