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

Should you visit Boca Raton or Austin?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Boca Raton and Austin. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Boca Raton

Boca Raton is a outdoorsy, relaxed, and luxurious coastal city. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Austin

Austin is a entrepreneurial, eccentric, and unconventional city. With a variety of activities, it's a big city. This is beautiful destination to visit. It's also popular because of the live music, food, and shopping.

Boca Raton and Austin: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Boca Raton or Austin?

You'll generally find more things to do in Austin than Boca Raton. Austin is bigger than Boca Raton, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Austin is better known for its food, nightlife, music, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Boca Raton is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and shopping. Boca Raton is well known for its golf courses, outdoor recreational activities, and safe atmosphere. Austin is well known for its live music scene, excellent Texas barbecue, authentic Mexican food, and vibrant student population. Also, Austin is famous for The Texas Capital.

How is Boca Raton different from Austin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Boca Raton or Austin?

You'll find a number of great museums and attractions in both Austin and Boca Raton.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Boca Raton. While most visitors focus on the beaches and outdoor activities in the area, there are also a surprising number of museums that you can visit. On a rainy day head to the Boca Raton Museum of Art or the Schmidt Boca Raton History Museum. Sports enthusiasts will like the Sports Immortals Museum and kids will want to check out the Children's Science Explorium.

Austin offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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

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

Austin is a world-class destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Boca Raton is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Eat your way through Austin, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. It is credited with being the original food truck city and you'll find many diverse food truck options around town. There is also amazing Mexican food, world renowned Texas barbecue, and many modern restaurants that reflect the city's culinary influence.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Boca Raton makes for a great culinary experience. You'll find a mix of local and international flavors with both casual and upscale dining available. Reservations are recommended, particularly on weekend nights. For the health-conscious, there's also a nice selection of healthy eateries to choose from.

Is Boca Raton or Austin Better for Nightlife?

Austin is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. Also, Boca Raton is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for nightlife.

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.

Boca Raton has plenty to do after the sun goes down. You'll find plenty of upscale wine bars, cocktail bars, and live music venues that will keep you entertained late into the evening.

Is Boca Raton or Austin Better for Music?

Austin is a world-class destination for its music scene. However, Boca Raton is not a live music destination.

Austin has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Music is what gives this city its character. There are many live music venues, concerts, and music festivals to experience. Austin has influenced many music genres such as rock, blues, jazz, hip hop, punk, and country.

Boca Raton is not a live music destination.

Is Boca Raton or Austin Better for Resorts?

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

Boca Raton is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. You'll find many luxury beachside resorts that offer all of the amenities, from access to golf course to family-friendly kids clubs.

Austin is not a resort destination.

Is Boca Raton or Austin Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Boca Raton has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. Head to the "Aqua Zoo", which is just to the south of Boca Inlet to see stingrays, groupers, and moray eels. Red Reef Park offers excellent snorkeling as well.

Austin is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Boca Raton or Austin Better for Beaches?

Boca Raton is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Austin is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Boca Raton are among the best in the world. There's a two mile stretch of beautiful sandy beaches that are all monitored by lifeguards. The beaches offer all of the facilities that you might need such as picnic areas, restrooms, and showers. Many beaches are part of park land and some offer nice snorkeling. Some of the most popular beaches in the area include Spanish River Park, Bark Park Dog Beach, Red Reef Beach, and South Beach Park.

Austin is not a beach destination.

Is Boca Raton or Austin Better for Hiking?

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

Boca Raton has hiking trails worth exploring. There's a surprising number of nature parks in the area that have hiking trails, nature walks, and beach paths that are fun to explore.

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 Boca Raton or Austin?

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

Boca Raton is an extremely popular place for shoppers. It's an upscale area, and you'll find no shortage of luxury shopping around town. Popular areas for shopping include Downtown Boca, Mizner Park, and the Town Center at Boca Raton.

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

Is Boca Raton or Austin Better for Families?

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

Boca Raton is a very family-friendly place to visit. It's an upscale area with a family-friendly atmosphere and plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. Many of the hotels have kids clubs that will keep the young ones entertained. The area also has nature centers, children's museums, and waterparks that will ensure everyone stays entertained.

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 Boca Raton or Austin Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Boca Raton frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There's an upscale vibe with plenty of nature trails and nice beaches. Many of the hotels offer a touch of luxury that honeymooning couples will appreciate. You can also head to the downtown area for music, events, and museums.

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 Boca Raton or Austin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Austin is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Boca Raton is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Austin. Although the city is relatively small, it does see a disproportionate number of backpackers. There are a couple of hostels in town as well.

Boca Raton is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. It's known for its upscale luxury, and you won't find much in the form of hostels or backpacker-friendly accommodation.

Is Boca Raton or Austin Better for Students?

Austin is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Boca Raton is not popular with students.

Many students visit Austin. The city has a huge university, the University of Texas at Austin, and it is a young city with tons for international students. There is a great nightlife scene and plenty for students to see and do.

Boca Raton is not popular with students.

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

Boca Raton 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 Boca Raton, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The Downtowner is a fleet of free, oversized golf cars that shuttle visitors around town, passing by many top sites such as Mizner Park, Red Reef Park, and the Gumbo Limbo Nature Center. There's also a public bus system, Palm Tran, that offers service around town.

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 Boca Raton or Austin a more walkable city?

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

Boca Raton is somewhat walkable. There are some communities within the city that are more walkable than others, particularly East Boca Raton, Royal Palm Place, and Mizner Park. There are also many pedestrian and bike paths around town. Even so, you really must have a car to explore the area in depth.

Austin is generally not a very walkable coastal 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 Boca Raton Worth Visiting? and Is Austin Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Austin or Boca Raton?

How long in Boca Raton or Austin?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Boca Raton and Austin. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Boca Raton than in Austin. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Boca Raton, and 2-3 days is enough time in Austin.

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

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

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

One day in Boca Raton or Austin?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Boca Raton. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

With live music and food around the lively city of Austin, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Boca Raton or Austin?

Boca Raton is a great place to explore. Don't miss the beaches, 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.

With food and shopping around the destination of Austin, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Boca Raton or Austin?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Boca Raton. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Austin, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Boca Raton or Austin?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the relaxed destination of Boca Raton. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Austin is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Boca Raton or Austin?

Austin has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Boca Raton. When comparing the sizes of Boca Raton 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 Boca Raton or Austin?

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 Boca Raton or Austin in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Boca Raton as well as Austin. Many visitors come to Boca Raton in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Austin for the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Boca Raton is around the same temperature as Austin. Typically, the summer temperatures in Boca Raton in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Austin averages at about 87°F (30°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Austin. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Boca Raton this time of the year. In the summer, Boca Raton often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Austin. Boca Raton gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Austin receives 318 hours of full sun.

Boca Raton receives a lot of rain in the summer. Boca Raton usually gets more rain in July than Austin. Boca Raton gets 6.5 inches (166 mm) of rain, while Austin receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Boca Raton or Austin in the Autumn?

Both Austin and Boca Raton are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Boca Raton for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months. Also, 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.

In October, Boca Raton is generally a little warmer than Austin. Daily temperatures in Boca Raton average around 78°F (25°C), and Austin fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

It's quite sunny in Austin. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Boca Raton. Boca Raton usually receives more sunshine than Austin during autumn. Boca Raton gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Austin receives 214 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Boca Raton. In October, Boca Raton usually receives more rain than Austin. Boca Raton gets 8.7 inches (222 mm) of rain, while Austin receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November is the hurricane season in Boca Raton.

Should I visit Boca Raton or Austin in the Winter?

Both Austin and Boca Raton during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Boca Raton because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Austin this time of year.

Boca Raton is much warmer than Austin in the winter. The daily temperature in Boca Raton averages around 65°F (19°C) in January, and Austin fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

It's quite sunny in Boca Raton. In the winter, Boca Raton often gets more sunshine than Austin. Boca Raton gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Austin receives 163 hours of full sun.

Boca Raton usually gets more rain in January than Austin. Boca Raton gets 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain, while Austin receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Boca Raton or Austin in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Boca Raton and Austin. The beaches are the main draw to Boca Raton this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Austin for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Boca Raton is around the same temperature as Austin. Typically, the spring temperatures in Boca Raton in April average around 74°F (23°C), and Austin averages at about 71°F (22°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Austin this time of the year. In Boca Raton, it's very sunny this time of the year. Boca Raton usually receives more sunshine than Austin during spring. Boca Raton gets 300 hours of sunny skies, while Austin receives 209 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Boca Raton usually receives around the same amount of rain as Austin. Boca Raton gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Austin receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November in Boca Raton is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Austin and Boca Raton