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

Should you visit Beaufort or Austin?

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

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

Beaufort

Beaufort is a character-filled, southern, and charming town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. It's a gorgeous place to visit. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. It's also known for shopping, museums, and food.

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 museums, nightlife, and live music.

Beaufort and Austin: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Beaufort or Austin?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Austin. Although Beaufort and Austin are both popular with visitors, Austin has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Austin is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, hiking, and big city activities, while Beaufort is known for its beaches, historical sights, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Beaufort is popular for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes. 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 Beaufort different from Austin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Beaufort
Austin

Austin is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Beaufort is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

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

Beaufort offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The town's museums highlight the region's past. There are four popular museums that you can visit - the Beaufort History Museum, Parris Island Museum, Verdier House Museum, and York W. Bailey Museum.


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

Beaufort
Austin

Austin is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Beaufort is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Beaufort has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Soak up the charming atmosphere by dining at one of the local restaurants. Many serve Lowcountry cuisine which includes She-crab soup, fried green tomatoes, shrimp burgers, and barbecue.

Is Beaufort or Austin Better for Nightlife?

Beaufort
Austin

Austin is renowned for nightlife. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Beaufort. You'll find bars, grills, and taverns in town, but most people don't visit for the nightlife scene.

Is Beaufort or Austin Better for Music?

Beaufort
Austin

Austin is renowned for live music. However, Beaufort 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.

Beaufort is not a live music destination.


Is Beaufort or Austin Better for Beaches?

Beaufort
Austin

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

Beaufort has a beach worth visiting. The town has a nice waterfront, but you have to head about half an hour out of town for a real beach. One of the best options is Hunting Island State Park.

Austin is not a beach destination.

Is Beaufort or Austin Better for its Old Town?

Beaufort
Austin

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

Many visitors go to Beaufort to see the historical old town. Historic homes, some that were built before the Civil War, offer a glimpse into the past. Beaufort is the second oldest town in South Carolina and it holds on to much of its charm and character.

Austin does not have a historic old town.

Is Beaufort or Austin Better for Hiking?

Beaufort
Austin

Austin is a moderate city for the nearby hiking options. However, Beaufort 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.

Beaufort is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Beaufort or Austin?

Beaufort
Austin

Both Beaufort and Austin are good shopping destinations.

Beaufort is a great destination for shopping. Head downtown for some souvenir shopping or to check out the art galleries or fashion boutiques.

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

Is Beaufort or Austin Better for Families?

Beaufort
Austin

Austin is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for its kid-friendly activities.

Austin is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Beaufort is not always a place people visit with their families. There are parks and outdoor activities in the area, but one of the best options is to head out of town to the beach.

Is Beaufort or Austin Better for Couples?

Beaufort
Austin

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

Couples visit Beaufort frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are many charming and romantic spots around town as well as historic inns where you can stay. Couples will enjoy the waterfront area or exploring one of the nature parks that are nearby. There are also quaint local restaurants that make for a nice 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 Beaufort or Austin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Beaufort
Austin

Austin is notable for backpackers. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town 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.

Beaufort is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. There aren't any real places for backpackers to stay in the area.

Is Beaufort or Austin Better for Students?

Beaufort
Austin

Austin is notable for students. However, Beaufort is not popular with students.

Austin is a great city to visit as a student. 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.

Beaufort is not popular with students.

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

Beaufort
Austin

Austin is a moderate city for its public transit. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town 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 Beaufort. There is no reliable public transportation system in the area.


Is Beaufort or Austin a more walkable city?

Beaufort
Austin

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

Beaufort is very walkable. The quaint downtown is walkable and offers easy access to art galleries, restaurants, and shops.

Austin is generally not a very walkable town. 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 Beaufort Worth Visiting? and Is Austin Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Austin or Beaufort?

How long in Beaufort or Austin?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Beaufort and Austin. In our opinion, Austin has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Austin than Beaufort. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Beaufort, and 2-3 days is enough time in Austin.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Austin than Beaufort 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 Beaufort or Austin? Ideal Length of Stay
    Beaufort 1-3 
    Austin 2-3

One day in Beaufort or Austin?

Beaufort might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

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.

A weekend in Beaufort or Austin?

Beaufort 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.

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.


Five days in Beaufort or Austin?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Beaufort. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

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.

A week in Beaufort or Austin?

Beaufort is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town 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.

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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Austin or Beaufort?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Beaufort is $131, while the average daily cost in Austin is $142. 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 Beaufort and Austin in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Beaufort $100
    Austin $56
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Beaufort $200
    Austin $112
Compare Hotels in Beaufort and Austin

Looking for a hotel in Beaufort or Austin? 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 Beaufort


Hotels in Austin


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: Beaufort Hotel Prices and Austin Hotel Prices.

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Austin

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Austin:

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Beaufort or Austin?

Prices for flights to both Austin and Beaufort 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
    Beaufort $31
    Austin $35

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.
    Beaufort -
    Austin $28

Tours and Activities in Beaufort

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Beaufort are as follows:

  • Historic City Tour by Bus: $29
  • Pat Conroy's Beaufort Tour by Golf Cart: $40
  • Gullah Heritage Tour: $49
  • Beaufort Tipsy Tour: $55

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:

  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Round Rock by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Austin,TX: Murder Mystery Detective Experience: $15
  • Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Austin Trails Amazing Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
  • Downtown Austin Haunted History Tour: $24
  • The Ghosts of Austin Walking Tour: $25
  • Family-Friendly Ghosts of Austin Tour: $25
  • Ha Ha Haunted Austin Walking Ghost Tour: $26
  • Private 1 Hour Axe Throwing Experience in Texas: $27
  • Haunted Austin Walking History Tour: $28
  • City and Hill Country Non-Stop Tour in a Mercedes: $30
  • Forest Mindfulness and Embodiment Experience: $30

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Beaufort -
    Austin $28

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 comparing the travel costs between Beaufort and Austin, we can see that Austin is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Beaufort or Austin?

Austin has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Beaufort. When comparing the sizes of Beaufort and Austin, 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 Beaufort or Austin?

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 Beaufort or Austin in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Beaufort and Austin. The summer months attract visitors to Beaufort because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Austin this time of year.

Beaufort is around the same temperature as Austin in the summer. The daily temperature in Beaufort averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Austin fluctuates around 87°F (30°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Austin this time of the year. In Beaufort, it's very sunny this time of the year. Beaufort usually receives less sunshine than Austin during summer. Beaufort gets 267 hours of sunny skies, while Austin receives 318 hours of full sun in the summer.

Beaufort gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Beaufort usually receives more rain than Austin. Beaufort gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Austin receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Beaufort 82°F (28°C) 
    Austin 87°F (30°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Austin in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Beaufort as well as Austin. The shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Beaufort this time of year. Also, 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.

In the autumn, Beaufort is cooler than Austin. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Beaufort in October average around 68°F (20°C), and Austin averages at about 73°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Austin. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beaufort this time of the year. In the autumn, Beaufort often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Austin. Beaufort gets 223 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Austin receives 214 hours of full sun.

Beaufort usually gets less rain in October than Austin. Beaufort gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Austin receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Beaufort 68°F (20°C) 
    Austin 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Austin in the Winter?

Both Austin and Beaufort are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Beaufort for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Austin in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Beaufort is generally cooler than Austin. Daily temperatures in Beaufort average around 48°F (9°C), and Austin fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

Beaufort usually receives more sunshine than Austin during winter. Beaufort gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Austin receives 163 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Beaufort usually receives more rain than Austin. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Austin receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Beaufort 48°F (9°C) 
    Austin 51°F (11°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Austin in the Spring?

Both Austin and Beaufort during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Beaufort in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Austin for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

Beaufort is cooler than Austin in the spring. The daily temperature in Beaufort averages around 67°F (19°C) in April, and Austin fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

In Austin, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Beaufort. In the spring, Beaufort often gets more sunshine than Austin. Beaufort gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Austin receives 209 hours of full sun.

Beaufort usually gets less rain in April than Austin. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Austin receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Beaufort 67°F (19°C) 
    Austin 71°F (22°C)

Typical Weather for Austin and Beaufort

Beaufort Austin
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 48°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 51°F (11°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm)
Feb 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 55°F (13°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Mar 58°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 63°F (17°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm)
Apr 67°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
May 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 77°F (25°C) 4 inches (101 mm)
Jun 80°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm) 83°F (29°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm) 87°F (30°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm) 87°F (31°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm)
Sep 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 82°F (28°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm)
Oct 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 73°F (23°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Nov 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 62°F (17°C) 2 inches (52 mm)
Dec 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm)