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

Should you visit Beaufort or Houston?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Beaufort or Houston, 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 beautiful place to visit, too. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Houston

Houston is a sprawling, southern, and one-of-a-kind city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and live music.

Beaufort and Houston: 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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Beaufort or Houston?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Houston. Although Beaufort and Houston are popular destinations, Houston has more sights and attractions for tourists. Houston is very popular for its museums, nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Beaufort attracts visitors for its food, beaches, historical sights, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Beaufort is more touristy than Houston and is known for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes. Houston is famous for its sprawling size, its local Texas restaurants, and being the home to NASA. It is also well known for The Space Center Houston.

How is Beaufort different from Houston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Beaufort
Houston

Houston 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 Houston can be an interesting and educational experience. Head to Houston's Museum District to explore 19 different museums in a walkable area. A highlight of a trip to the city is a visit to the Space Center, but other popular museums include the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Houston Children's Museum.

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 Houston? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Beaufort
Houston

Beaufort is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Beaufort. 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.

Houston is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The city is famous for its Texas barbecue, Mexican food, and a wide diversity of other different ethnic foods. It's a surprisingly diverse city and this is reflected in the restaurant selection around town.

Is Beaufort or Houston Better for Nightlife?

Beaufort
Houston

Houston is notable for nightlife. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

Houston has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The nightlife is at its best on weekends when bars, dance clubs, and concert halls come to life. There are a diversity of venues around town including dance clubs, Honky Tonks, and cocktail bars. Some of the most active nightlife areas are Downtown, Midtown, Montrose, Washington Avenue, and Rice Village.

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 Houston Better for Music?

Beaufort
Houston

Houston is a nice place to visit for live music. However, Beaufort is not a live music destination.

The music scene helps keep Houston active and fun. Popular music venues include Fitzgerald's, Walter's Downtown, and The Continental Club.

Beaufort is not a live music destination.


Is Beaufort or Houston Better for Beaches?

Beaufort
Houston

Beaufort is a good destination for the beache. However, Houston is not a beach destination.

Beaufort offers a nice beach destination. 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.

Houston is not a beach destination.

Is Beaufort or Houston Better for its Old Town?

Beaufort
Houston

Beaufort is well known for its old town. However, Houston does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Beaufort. 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.

Houston does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Beaufort or Houston?

Beaufort
Houston

Both Beaufort and Houston are nice 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 Houston. There are a number of upscale malls and shopping centers that have brand names, chain stores, and the occasional local shop where you can pick up items.


Is Beaufort or Houston Better for Families?

Beaufort
Houston

Houston is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for its kid-friendly activities.

Houston is a very family-friendly place to visit. It is a large city with plenty of things that kids can enjoy including museums, theaters, a zoo, and even the Space Center. The Children's Museum of Houston is perfect for a rainy day. For science loving kids there's the Health Museum and the Museum of Natural Science. Houston also has a Six Flags nearby which the whole family can enjoy.

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 Houston Better for Couples?

Beaufort
Houston

Beaufort is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

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.

Houston is a good town for couples to visit. There's a surprising diversity of restaurants around the city. There are also performing arts productions and many outdoor parks and gardens.

Is Beaufort or Houston Better for Students?

Beaufort
Houston

Houston is a nice place to visit for students. However, Beaufort is not popular with students.

Houston is a good city to visit for students. It's a large city with a number of universities and a large student population.

Beaufort is not popular with students.


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

Beaufort
Houston

Houston 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 Houston. The system includes buses and a limited light rail. Houston is known as a car-centric city and you really need a car to fully experience it.

Public transit is quite limited in Beaufort. There is no reliable public transportation system in the area.

Is Beaufort or Houston a more walkable city?

Beaufort
Houston

Beaufort is well known for its high level of walkability. However, Houston is not particularly known for its ease of walking around.

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

Houston is generally not a very walkable town. The most walkable neighborhood is the historic Houston Heights, but most parts of the city aren't very walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Beaufort Worth Visiting? and Is Houston Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Houston or Beaufort?

How long in Beaufort or Houston?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Beaufort than Houston. 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 Beaufort than Houston 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 Beaufort.


  • How many days in Beaufort or Houston? Ideal Length of Stay
    Beaufort 1-3 
    Houston 2-3

One day in Beaufort or Houston?

Beaufort is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Houston is a big city with plenty to do. 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 Houston?

Beaufort might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Beaufort has to offer.

Houston 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 Houston, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Beaufort or Houston?

Beaufort is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Houston 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 Houston?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Beaufort. Since Beaufort is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Houston 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, Houston 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 Houston is $262. 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 Houston in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Beaufort $100
    Houston $142
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Beaufort $200
    Houston $284
Compare Hotels in Beaufort and Houston

Looking for a hotel in Beaufort or Houston? 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 Houston


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 Houston Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Beaufort -
    Houston $72

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Houston

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Houston:

  • Private Arrival Transfer from Houston William P. Hobby Airport HOU: $48
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Houston George Bush Airport (IAH): $51
  • Transfer in private vehicle from Houston George Bush Airport to Houston Downtown: $60
  • Round-Trip Shuttle Transfer to NASA Space Center: $62
  • Private One-way George Bush Airport Transfer To/From Houston: $71
  • Houston William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) to Houston - Arrival Private Transfer: $81
  • Houston to Houston William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) - Departure Private Transfer: $81
  • Transfer in private minivan from Houston George Bush Airport to Houston Downtown: $88
  • Departure Private Transfer: Houston to George Bush Airport IAH in Business Car: $106
  • Arrival Private Transfer: George Bush Airport IAH to Houston in Business Car: $108
  • Departure Private Transfer: Houston to George Bush Airport IAH in Luxury SUV: $109
  • Round trip transfer in private car from-to Houston Airport in Houston Downtown: $120

Is it cheaper to fly into Beaufort or Houston?

Prices for flights to both Houston 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
    Houston $35

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Houston

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

  • Seasonal Pizza From Scratch Experience in Houston: $55
  • Astroville Food Tour of Downtown Houston with Tunnel Access: $70
  • Astroville Food Tour of Downtown Houston with Tunnel Access: $72
  • The Heights Food Tour in Houston: $76
  • Downtown Houston Food Tour: $76
  • Houston Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $85
  • Houston Downtown: Secret Food Tours: $87
  • Howdy H-Town EADO Food Tour: $90
  • East Downtown Food Tour: $90

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Beaufort -
    Houston $14

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

Tours and Activities in Houston

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

  • Sights of Downtown Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $7.30
  • Houston Museum of Natural Sciences: Planetarium Ticket: $9.00
  • Downtown In App Audio Walking Tour: $9.00
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Houston by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Houston by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern History Tour: $12
  • Houston Botanic Garden Entry Ticket: $13
  • Sightseeing Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $14
  • Austin & Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Children's Museum Houston Entry Ticket: $17
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Houston with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • Museum of Natural Science General Admission Ticket: $25

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Beaufort -
    Houston $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Houston

Also in Houston, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Brewery Pass with Beer Tastings: $50
  • Private Houston Brewery Tour by Cart: $57
  • 2-Hour Downtown Brewery Tour by Electric Cart: $70


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

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


Which is Bigger, Beaufort or Houston?

Houston has a larger population, and is about 170 times larger than the population of Beaufort. When comparing the sizes of Beaufort and Houston, 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 Houston?

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 Houston in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Beaufort and Houston. Many travelers come to Beaufort for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Houston in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Beaufort is around the same temperature as Houston. Typically, the summer temperatures in Beaufort in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Houston averages at about 84°F (29°C).

Houston receives a lot of rain in the summer. Beaufort gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Beaufort usually receives more rain than Houston. Beaufort gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Houston receives 4.8 inches (122 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Beaufort 82°F (28°C) 
    Houston 84°F (29°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Houston in the Autumn?

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

In October, Beaufort is generally around the same temperature as Houston. Daily temperatures in Beaufort average around 68°F (20°C), and Houston fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

It's quite rainy in Houston. Beaufort usually gets less rain in October than Houston. Beaufort gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Houston receives 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Beaufort 68°F (20°C) 
    Houston 71°F (22°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Houston in the Winter?

Both Houston and Beaufort are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Beaufort for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Houston because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Beaufort is cooler than Houston in the winter. The daily temperature in Beaufort averages around 48°F (9°C) in January, and Houston fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

In January, Beaufort usually receives less rain than Houston. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Houston receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Beaufort 48°F (9°C) 
    Houston 52°F (11°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Houston in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Beaufort is around the same temperature as Houston. Typically, the spring temperatures in Beaufort in April average around 67°F (19°C), and Houston averages at about 70°F (21°C).

Beaufort usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Houston. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Houston receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Beaufort 67°F (19°C) 
    Houston 70°F (21°C)

Typical Weather for Houston and Beaufort

Beaufort Houston
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 48°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 52°F (11°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Feb 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 55°F (13°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Mar 58°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 63°F (17°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Apr 67°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
May 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 76°F (25°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm)
Jun 80°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm) 81°F (27°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm) 84°F (29°C) 4.8 inches (122 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm) 83°F (29°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm)
Sep 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 80°F (27°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm)
Oct 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 71°F (22°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm)
Nov 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 63°F (17°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm)
Dec 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 55°F (13°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)