A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Austin vs. The Hamptons for Food, Nightlife, Couples, and Hiking

Should you visit Austin or The Hamptons?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Austin or The Hamptons, 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 lively, entrepreneurial, and eccentric city. It's also a big city with many activities. This is a very beautiful destination, too. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

The Hamptons

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

Austin and The Hamptons: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular for shopping
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Austin or The Hamptons?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Austin. Although Austin and The Hamptons are both popular with visitors, Austin has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Austin is more popular for its museums & sights, food, nightlife, music, and big city activities, while The Hamptons is known for its resorts, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. 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. The Hamptons is popular for its long sandy beaches, charming seaside communities, opulent villas, and vacationing celebrities.

How is Austin different from The Hamptons?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Austin
The Hamptons

Austin is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, The Hamptons does not have museums and landmarks.

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

The Hamptons does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Austin
The Hamptons

Austin is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, The Hamptons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Austin have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

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

Is Austin or The Hamptons Better for Nightlife?

Austin
The Hamptons

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

People head to Austin just to party. 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.

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

Is Austin or The Hamptons Better for Music?

Austin
The Hamptons

Austin is a world-class destination for live music. However, The Hamptons is not a live music destination.

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 Hamptons is not a live music destination.


Is Austin or The Hamptons Better for Resorts?

Austin
The Hamptons

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

The Hamptons is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Known as a hangout for the rich and famous, there is no shortage of luxury hotels and resorts in the area.

Austin is not a resort destination.

Is Austin or The Hamptons Better for Beaches?

Austin
The Hamptons

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

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

Austin is not a beach destination.

Is Austin or The Hamptons Better for Hiking?

Austin
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is a nice place to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Austin is a city with minimal options for hiking.

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

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 The Hamptons?

Austin
The Hamptons

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

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

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

Is Austin or The Hamptons Better for Families?

Austin
The Hamptons

Austin and The Hamptons are both good destinations for the whole family.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Austin. 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.

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

Is Austin or The Hamptons Better for Couples?

Austin
The Hamptons

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

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

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 The Hamptons Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Austin
The Hamptons

Austin is a great destination for backpackers. However, The Hamptons is a beach destination with minimal options 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.

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

Is Austin or The Hamptons Better for Students?

Austin
The Hamptons

Austin is a great destination for students. However, The Hamptons is not popular with students.

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.

The Hamptons is not popular with students.

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

Austin
The Hamptons

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

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


Is Austin or The Hamptons a more walkable city?

Austin
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Austin is a city with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

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

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 The Hamptons Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in The Hamptons or Austin?

How long in Austin or The Hamptons?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Austin than The Hamptons if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Austin.


  • How many days in Austin or The Hamptons? Ideal Length of Stay
    Austin 2-3 
    The Hamptons 3-7

One day in Austin or The Hamptons?

In Austin, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this unconventional city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of The Hamptons. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Austin or The Hamptons?

Austin is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

The Hamptons is a great place to explore. Don't miss the shopping, 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 The Hamptons?

You'll find nightlife and live music around the eccentric destination of Austin. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in The Hamptons. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 The Hamptons?

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

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the wealthy destination of The Hamptons. This beach destination offers a variety of activities to choose from. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.


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


Which place is cheaper, The Hamptons 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 The Hamptons is $223. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Austin and The Hamptons in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Austin $56
    The Hamptons $126
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Austin $112
    The Hamptons $252
Compare Hotels in Austin and The Hamptons

Looking for a hotel in Austin or The Hamptons? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Austin


Hotels in The Hamptons


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Austin Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Austin $47
    The Hamptons $63

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Austin

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Austin:

  • Austin City to Austin-Bergstrom Airport (AUS) - Departure Private Transfer: $50
  • Austin International Airport (AUS) - Private Arrival transfer: $110
  • Austin Round Trip Chauffeur Driven Airport Transfer by Sedan: $150
  • Austin-Bergstrom Airport (AUS) to Austin City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $99
  • Private Transfer Between Airport and Hotels: $80

Is it cheaper to fly into Austin or The Hamptons?

Prices for flights to both The Hamptons 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
    The Hamptons $60

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Austin

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

  • Devour Downtown Austin Walking Food Tour: $80
  • 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
  • Austin Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $99
  • Secret Food Tour: $102
  • Secret Food Tour of South Congress: $113
  • The Brunch Bus: Food Tour with a Live Band on Board the Bus!: $125

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Austin $28
    The Hamptons $22
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:

  • Neill-Cochran House Museum: Admission Ticket: $10
  • Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Haunted Tour with Ghost Hunting Gear: $20
  • Austin Trails Amazing Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
  • Ghosts of Old Georgetown Walking Tour: $22
  • Austin Ghosts Spirits & Poltergeists Haunted Walking Tour: $24
  • Downtown Austin Haunted History Tour: $24
  • Family-Friendly Ghosts of Austin Tour: $25
  • University of Texas Austin 5K Tour: $26
  • Ha Ha Haunted Austin Walking Ghost Tour: $26
  • Private 1 Hour Axe Throwing Experience in Texas: $27
  • Wonderspaces Interactive Art Exhibition Entry Ticket: $27

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Austin $28
    The Hamptons $31

Sample the Local Flavors in Austin

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Austin:

  • Austin Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30
  • Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30
  • Downtown Live Music Pub Crawl: $35
  • Downtown Austin Live Music Pub Crawl: $35
  • Austin's Bachelorette Live Music Pub Crawl: $35
  • Lost Legends of Texas Pub Crawl in Austin: $35
  • Austin Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • McKinnie-Gene's Paranormal Pub Crawl: $35
  • Austin Rainey Street Bar Crawl | The Epic Group: $38
  • Public Pedal Pub Tour in Austin: $39
  • Austin 6th Street Bar Crawl | The Epic Group: $43


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


Which is Bigger, Austin or The Hamptons?

Austin has a larger population, and is about 160 times larger than the population of The Hamptons. When comparing the sizes of Austin and The Hamptons, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Austin or The Hamptons?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Austin or The Hamptons in the Summer?

Both The Hamptons and Austin are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Austin this time of year. Also, many travelers come to The Hamptons for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Austin is a little warmer than The Hamptons in the summer. The daily temperature in Austin averages around 87°F (30°C) in July, and The Hamptons fluctuates around 76°F (25°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in The Hamptons. In July, Austin usually receives less rain than The Hamptons. Austin gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Austin 87°F (30°C) 
    The Hamptons 76°F (25°C)

Should I visit Austin or The Hamptons in the Autumn?

Both The Hamptons and Austin during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Austin for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to The Hamptons in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Austin is much warmer than The Hamptons. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Austin in October average around 73°F (23°C), and The Hamptons averages at about 58°F (14°C).

Austin usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as The Hamptons. Austin gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Austin 73°F (23°C) 
    The Hamptons 58°F (14°C)

Should I visit Austin or The Hamptons in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Austin and The Hamptons. Many visitors come to Austin in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to The Hamptons for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

The Hamptons can be very cold during winter. In January, Austin is generally much warmer than The Hamptons. Daily temperatures in Austin average around 51°F (11°C), and The Hamptons fluctuates around 31°F (-0°C).

In January, Austin usually receives less rain than The Hamptons. Austin gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


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

Should I visit Austin or The Hamptons in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Austin as well as The Hamptons. Most visitors come to Austin for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to The Hamptons because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

Austin is much warmer than The Hamptons in the spring. The daily temperature in Austin averages around 71°F (22°C) in April, and The Hamptons fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

Austin usually gets less rain in April than The Hamptons. Austin gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Austin 71°F (22°C) 
    The Hamptons 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for The Hamptons and Austin

Austin The Hamptons
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 51°F (11°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 31°F (-0°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Feb 55°F (13°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 33°F (1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Mar 63°F (17°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Apr 71°F (22°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 51°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
May 77°F (25°C) 4 inches (101 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Jun 83°F (29°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jul 87°F (30°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 76°F (25°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm)
Aug 87°F (31°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm)
Sep 82°F (28°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Oct 73°F (23°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 58°F (14°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2 inches (52 mm) 47°F (9°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Dec 54°F (12°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 37°F (3°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)